Seven suspected criminals, who used the recent protest against fuel pump price increase by commercial tricycle operators to rob residents of Ilorin, Kwara state capital, have been arrested and paraded by the state command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
On Thursday, one Olusegun Taiwo (female) of Sango area, Ilorin had reported a case of criminal conspiracy and theft at the station office of the NSCDC Kwara state command.
She stated that while on her way to her office on a motorcycle, she was attacked by a group of youths, suspected to be hoodlums, who forcefully took her bag, phones, and other valuables.
The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the NSCDC in the state, Ayoola Michael, who confirmed the report, said in a statement on Saturday that upon receiving the report, operatives of the NSCDC in the state arrested seven suspected miscreants involved in unlawful and violent conduct, as well as mischief, during a protest by commercial tricycle and motorcycle riders in Ilorin on the same day.
“After a thorough investigation, it was discovered that the suspects are part of the group of hoodlums responsible for terrorizing and causing public unrest in Ilorin, particularly at Sango area.”
The PRO of the corps said that 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 Ilorin metropolis.
“The NSCDC Kwara State Commandant, Dr. Umar J.G. Mohammed, assures the people of Kwara State that the Command remains firmly committed to upholding public order and will continue to take decisive measures against any individual or groups involved in criminal activities that threaten the safety and security of the state.
He said that the suspects will be charged to court for prosecution in accordance with the law.
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