The Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps has announced the arrest of seven suspected miscreants during last Thursday’s fuel hike protest by commercial vehicle operators in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC Kwara Command, Ayoola Michael, revealed that the suspects were allegedly involved in unlawful and violent conduct during the protest.
These individuals were reportedly part of a group of hoodlums terrorizing various areas of Ilorin.
The incident came to light when Olusegun Taiwo, a resident of the Sango area in Ilorin, reported a case of criminal conspiracy and theft to the NSCDC.
According to her account, she was attacked by a group of youths suspected to be hoodlums while on her way to work on a motorcycle. The assailants forcefully took her bag, phones, and other valuables.
Following the report, NSCDC operatives swiftly apprehended seven suspects connected to the incident.
The subsequent investigation revealed that these individuals were among the group of hoodlums who had hijacked the protest, using it as an opportunity to engage in theft and other criminal activities, leading to increased unrest in the Ilorin metropolis.
“The protest was overtaken by hoodlums who exploited the situation, engaging in theft of personal belongings such as bags, phones, and other valuable items, which led to increased unrest in the Ilorin metropolis,” the statement said.
The NSCDC Kwara State Commandant, Umar Mohammed, reassured the public that the Command is committed to maintaining public order and will continue to take decisive action against individuals or groups involved in criminal activities that threaten the safety and security of the state.
Michael also noted that the suspects would be charged to court for prosecution in accordance with the law.
