Picture of peaceful protesters
The Niger State Police Command has announced the arrest of 11 individuals in connection with the arson attack on part of the Tafa Local Government Area (LGA) secretariat.
According to the command’s spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, the incident also saw two cars set ablaze and two others vandalized, with several valuables stolen.
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Abiodun stated, “In light of the nationwide protest scheduled to commence today, 1st August 2024, a group of miscreants from the Tafa area of Kagarko LGA in Kaduna State, along with those from Hayin-Diko in Gurara LGA of Niger State, mobilized and attacked the Tafa LGA Secretariat located along the Abuja-Kaduna expressway in Sabon-Wuse, Niger State.”
The spokesperson detailed that the hoodlums vandalized the secretariat, partially setting it on fire. Two vehicles were burnt and two more vandalized, while valuables were looted.
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In response, police and other security agencies arrived at the scene, arresting 11 violent individuals armed with various weapons, including firearms.
The authorities managed to disperse the rest of the hoodlums and recovered some of the stolen items.
Police and security personnel also responded to blockages on the Kaduna-Abuja expressway and the old toll gate, successfully dispersing the hoodlums and reopening the highway for traffic.
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The situation has since stabilized, allowing for a free flow of vehicles.
The police have launched an investigation into the violent acts to apprehend other fleeing suspects.
The public, particularly parents and residents, have been urged to caution their wards, as the command will not tolerate violent demonstrations, the destruction of public property, or looting.