Niger State Police Arrest 61 Suspects in Crackdown on Thuggery and Youth Violence
The Niger State Police Command has apprehended 61 male suspects, aged between 17 and 25, following a surge in thuggery and youth unrest in Minna, the state capital, after Ramadan. The arrests were made in coordinated sting operations carried out on April 3rd, 4th, and 5th, targeting areas experiencing increased violence.
According to Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, 42 individuals were arrested in Tunga on April 3rd, 19 in Angwan-Daji and surrounding areas on April 4th, and six in Barkin-Sale on April 5th. The suspects were reportedly from various neighborhoods, including Dutsen Kura, Kpakungu, Soje A & B, Morris Area, Tudun Wada, Maitumbi, Limawa, and Ketaren Gwari.
The arrested youths are accused of engaging in violent acts such as attacking residents, fighting with dangerous weapons, destroying property, and injuring bystanders. Police also seized illicit drugs, cannabis, and other dangerous weapons from the suspects, who are currently undergoing investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna.
In response to the rising unrest, the Deputy Governor of Niger State, Comrade Yakubu Garba, conducted a high-level security tour of Minna, accompanied by the Commissioner of Police, Deputy Director of the State Security Service (SSS), Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the State Commandant of the Vigilante Group, Nasiru Manta. The delegation visited several areas to assess the security situation and engage with residents.
Garba condemned the resurgence of violence and stated that the government would no longer tolerate threats to public safety and property. He directed security agencies to enhance surveillance and community policing efforts. Additionally, he issued a stern warning to district heads, known as ‘Mai-Angwan’, to identify and expose thugs in their communities. Garba emphasized that any district head who failed to act would be held accountable for any future disturbances in their areas.
This action comes as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to curb the rising cases of violence and ensure the safety and security of its residents.
