The Kano State Police Command confirmed on Thursday the arrest of 269 suspects over alleged destruction, violence, and looting of government and public properties during the nationwide hunger protest.
The command also called on residents to strictly obey the 24-hour curfew imposed by the state government, warning that violations would not be tolerated.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Superintendent of Police (SP), Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, confirmed the arrest in a statement made available to the press in Kano. He disclosed that the individuals were engaged in acts of violence, destruction, looting, and causing harm to innocent civilians, resulting in the damage of public and private properties.
According to him, “In a swift and efficient response to these criminal activities, a total of 269 suspects responsible for destruction, looting, and instigating chaos under the guise of the nationwide protest were arrested.”
He stated that items recovered from them include many jerricans of 25 litres of groundnut oil, a large quantity of stationery, foodstuffs, and other valuable properties.
SP Kiyawa also disclosed that the suspects are currently cooling their heels at the Command’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and will be charged in court upon completion of the investigation. He noted that more arrests and recoveries are in progress.
He added that the Commissioner of Police reiterated the prerogative of the Nigeria Police Force to ensure the protection of lives and properties. The CP assured that anyone who tries to cause violence, destruction, looting of people’s and government properties, or spread fake news to heat up the situation will be dealt with according to the law.
The CP further called on residents to strictly obey the 24-hour curfew imposed by the state government, warning that violations will not be tolerated.
“The Kano Police Command will continue to take proactive measures to prevent any unscrupulous individuals or groups from causing harm or inciting violence in the state. Law-abiding citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly to the authorities to help maintain peace and stability in the state.”
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