Police arrest 157 suspects for looting and vandalising properties in Kano.
The police command in Kano has arrested no fewer than 157 suspects for looting and vandalising properties in Kano State.
Recall hoodlums looted the newly built Nigeria Communication Commission Industrial Park in Kano State as the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest started today.
The vandals targeted the Kano Information and Communication Technology Centre, just days before its scheduled launch, setting it on fire and making off with valuable equipment.
The action forced the state government to declare 24-hour curfew.
Governor Abba Yusuf, who announced the imposition of the curfew shortly, after Nationwide Protest in Kano on Thursday, said, the curfew is with immediate effect.
He regretted how the peaceful demonstration was hijacked by thugs and hoodlums who embarked on looting of business premises, government properties and maiming of innocent citizens.
He said, such miscreants have become persistent in wanton destructions of private and public properties aided and by enemies of the State who have been reported to the security agencies few days back.
“After exhaustive deliberations during Emergency State Security council meeting, it was collectively decided that 24-hour curfew should be put in place to prevent further looting and vandalization of shops including indiscriminate killing and maiming of innocent citizens.”
“On this note therefore, and based on the powers conferred on me by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as the Chief Security Officer of the State, I have therefore, declared 24-hour curfew in the State with immediate effect.”
Meanwhile, police said they have arrested 157 suspects in an update provided on social media.
The update reads; “At approximately 10:00 AM on the 1/8/2024, groups of hoodlums, under the guise of participating in the nationwide protest, launched attacks on several establishments in Kano State. These incidents have disrupted public order and safety, necessitating immediate action by the Kano State Police Command.
“The following incidents were reported:
“Attacks on Supermarkets: Several supermarkets at Nassarawa Quarters were attacked, resulting in significant property damage and theft.
“Arson at NCC Office: Multiple motor vehicles at the NCC office, Audu Bako Secretariat, along Government House Kano, were set ablaze. The fire has since been brought under control through swift intervention.
“Arrests and Recoveries: A total of 157 suspects have been arrested in connection with these criminal activities.
“An exhibit AK-47 rifle was recovered at the High Court. A large quantity of looted properties has also been recovered from the suspects.
“In response to these disturbances, the Kano State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew to restore order and ensure the safety of residents. The situation is being closely monitored, and the Kano State Police Command is committed to maintaining peace and security in the state.”
