Dozens Arrested in Katsina for Looting and Property Destruction
The Katsina State Police Command reportedly captured over fifty people in connection with the destruction and looting of government and public facilities during Thursday’s nationwide demonstration in the state.
In a statement, Police Spokesman ASP Abubakar Sadiq said that efforts have been strengthened to ensure the arrest of people identified as being involved in the looting of private and public property.
The statement urged parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against partaking in illegal activities like as violent protests, vandalism, and looting of public or private property.The message also advised adolescents to show moderation and avoid being exploited as tools to promote violence.
The command, in collaboration with sister security agencies, will conduct regular patrols to ensure total compliance with the curfew imposed across the state. Anyone found violating the curfew will be dealt with decisively. The command also appeals to the general public to cooperate and stay indoors during the curfew hours.
Due to current security concerns resulting from nationwide protests turning violent in some parts of the state, the Katsina State Police Command has begun enforcing the Katsina State Government’s imposed 24-hour curfew in Dutsinma Local Government Area (LGA) and a 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. curfew in the rest of the state’s Local Government Areas (LGAs), effective immediately.
“The 24-hour curfew in Dutsinma LGA is required to ensure public safety and prevent further escalation of violence, vandalism, and looting of public and private property, whereas the 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. curfew in the rest of the state is aimed at preventing nocturnal criminal activities and maintaining law and order throughout the state.
Additionally, we wish to debunk the circulating rumors and misinformation that police personnel shot live ammo at protesters, resulting in loss of lives.
“We assure the members of the public that our officers exercised the maximum level of restraint and professionalism in handling the violent protesters.
“There is no record of any fatalities resulting from police actions as of the time of these reports”, the statement added.
