The Kano State Police Command says it has arrested 288 suspected thugs during the by-election in Bagwai/Shanono and Ghari/Tsanyawa constituencies on Saturday.
The election was held to replace late Halilu Kundila, a member of the Kano State House of Assembly, who died after a brief illness.
Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Ibrahim Bakori, told the News Agency of Nigeria that the exercise was marred by violence, with armed thugs allegedly hired to disrupt the process.
“Eligible residents were afraid to come out and exercise their civil rights due to the presence of thugs wielding dangerous weapons, who were seen intimidating voters,” Bakori said.
He explained that the actions of the hoodlums made it difficult for many eligible voters to take part in the election.
Despite the disruptions, Bakori said security operatives were working hard to control the situation. “The police have apprehended 288 suspected thugs for disrupting the election process and have commenced intensive investigations. The police command is working to identify those behind the thuggery, including possible candidates in the election,” he stated.
The police boss assured residents of their safety and called on them to cooperate with security agencies throughout the process.
