In response to the nationwide protests that began on Thursday, the Police Command in Kaduna State has taken into custody 13 individuals believed to be associated with criminal activities.
Emphasizing their commitment to crack down on troublemakers who exploited the protests as an opportunity to cause chaos by damaging government, private, and police properties, the command vowed to take stern actions.
These developments were highlighted by the command’s spokesperson, ASP Mansir Hassan, in a statement released on Thursday in Kaduna.
According to Hassan, “The detention of these individuals was prompted by the sudden eruption of violence that marred the nationwide protests in Kaduna.”
Elaborating further, Hassan stated, “A total of 25 troublemakers engaged in violent behaviors that disrupted the peace in the state have been apprehended by the police.”
He explained that what started as relatively peaceful protests had been infiltrated by thugs who exploited the situation, carried out premeditated attacks, and instigated chaos in the state.
Hassan reported that the unruly mob made an attempt to forcefully enter the Kaduna State Government House but were repelled by the security personnel stationed there.
During the incident, two police officers were injured, and the windows of a Police Armoured Personnel Carrier at the government house entrance were smashed by the miscreants.
Hassan also mentioned that the 25 troublemakers were apprehended along with evidence that linked them to violent activities.
Despite the advice from the Inspector General of Police for protest groups to coordinate with their respective Commissioners of Police, these individuals chose to proceed with their protest actions, according to Hassan.
Encouraging parents and guardians to intervene and prevent their children from engaging in public disturbances, the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State, Mr. Audu Ali, issued a plea for responsible behavior.
Hassan reiterated that the police command will take a firm stance against any behavior that threatens public peace.