The Yobe State Police Command has announced the arrest of 18 suspects in connection with the violent protests and vandalism that rocked Nguru, Potiskum, and Gashua towns on Thursday.
According to DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, the command’s spokesman, the suspects were apprehended after they masqueraded as peaceful protesters and engaged in destructive activities such as arson and theft.
News About Nigeria reports that the suspects allegedly set fire to public buildings and stole food items and empowerment equipment.
“The suspects will be charged in court once the investigation is complete,” Abdulkarim said in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday.
“We will not tolerate any form of violence or destruction of government assets in any part of the state.”
The State Commissioner of Police, Garba Ahmed, had earlier issued a stern warning against the destruction of government assets in any part of the state.
The command has reiterated its commitment to enforcing the dusk-to-dawn curfew imposed on the affected towns to maintain law and order.
While acknowledging the right to peaceful assembly, the command stressed that this right is not absolute and must not infringe on the rights of others.
“Any criminal acts will be met with firm resistance,” Abdulkarim warned. “We will not allow violent protests to lead to social and economic chaos.”
The police command has urged communities in the state to collaborate with the police to prevent further mayhem caused by miscreants.
“We need the support of the community to maintain peace and stability in the state,” Abdulkarim said.
The arrest of the suspects is seen as a major breakthrough in the police command’s efforts to maintain law and order in the state.
The command’s swift response to the violent protests and vandalism demonstrates its commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens.
