Police Arrest 212 Suspects Over Violent Protests in Jigawa State
In an effort to restore law and order, the Jigawa Police Command has arrested 212 suspects in connection with looting, destruction, and vandalism of properties during the ongoing nationwide protest. According to Commissioner of Police, Ahmadu Abdullahi, the suspects have been charged to court, with 72 already facing criminal charges.
The Commissioner briefed newsmen on measures being taken by the command to restore peace and security in the state. He stated that proactive measures were taken by security agencies to prevent violence and protect lives and properties before the planned protest. These measures included surveillance, the deployment of additional security personnel to potential hotspots, engagement with critical stakeholders, and monitoring social media platforms.
Despite these efforts, Abdullahi lamented that some unscrupulous and unpatriotic elements were bent on destabilizing the state. These individuals engaged teenagers to unleash violence and destroy public properties, especially at palliative shops Yalwawa, Shuwarin, and Government House, Dutse.
The violent protest spread to some local government areas such as Hadejia, Birninkudu, Gumel, Kazaure, and Babura, prompting the security agencies to use minimum force to disperse the protesters. The Commissioner announced that additional personnel and equipment were deployed to affected areas to address the situation.
The state government, based on security advice and consultations with heads of security agencies, declared a 24-hour curfew across the state on August 1. The curfew aims to curb the spread of violence and protect the lives and properties of law-abiding citizens.
The Commissioner warned that anyone or group of persons found engaging in activities likely to disrupt the peace in the state would be dealt with accordingly. He also commended the cooperation and professionalism of sister agencies and law-abiding citizens.
The security agencies have committed to providing a safer and more secured environment for everyone to live in peace. Residents are advised to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, desist from participating in violent protests, and seek peaceful means of expressing their grievances. Parents and teachers are also advised to discourage their children and wards against participation in this violent protest.
