The Niger State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 11 hoodlums in connection with the burning of part of Tafa LGA secretariat, vandalism of cars, and theft of valuables. The incident occurred on Thursday, August 1, 2024, amid a nationwide protest.
According to SP Wasiu Abiodun, the command’s spokesperson, the hoodlums mobilized from Tafa area of Kagarko LGA of Kaduna State and Hayin-Diko Gurara LGA of Niger State, and stormed the secretariat located along Abuja-Kaduna expressway, Sabon-Wuse Niger State. Abiodun said,
“Following the nationwide protest slated to commence today, 1st August, 2024, unfortunately this morning at about 0930hrs, some miscreants… mobilized and stormed Tafa LGA Secretariat of Niger State… The hoodlums vandalized the Secretariat, partly set ablazed. Two cars were also burnt and two others vandalized. They further looted valuables there in…”
The police responded swiftly to the scene, arresting 11 violent miscreants with different weapons, including firearms, and dispersing others. Some of the looted items were recovered. Abiodun added,
“The police and other security agencies responded to the blockage of the Kaduna-Abuja expressway, and old toll-gate and the hoodlums were dispersed. Presently, the expressway has been reopened for motorists and there is free flow of traffic along the highway.”
The police have commenced an investigation into the violent act, aiming to arrest other fleeing miscreants. The command warned the public, parents, and residents to caution their wards, saying, “The command would not entertain violent demonstrations, destruction of public assets and looting.”