The Ekiti State Police Command has taken four Pakistani nationals into custody following reports of their alleged suspicious presence in Iyin-Ekiti, located in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the arrest followed complaints from residents who became concerned about unfamiliar individuals seen within the community, leading to heightened tension.
The publication quoted sources as saying that officers from the Iyin-Ekiti Police Division responded to a distress call received on June 9 and swiftly moved to the area.
“Upon arrival at the scene, police operatives intercepted and arrested four men identified as Muhammad Yusuf, 47; Ghani Abdul, 36; Abdul Jabbar, 46; and Yusuf Muhammad, 47,” Makama reported.
“The suspects reportedly told investigators that they were nationals of Pakistan who had travelled to Nigeria to sell mobile phones and engage in sightseeing activities.
“However, police sources said the men were unable to provide satisfactory explanations or documentation regarding their activities and presence in the community at the time of their arrest.”
The suspects were subsequently taken into custody for further interrogation and verification of their identities and reasons for being in the area.
Makama stated that police authorities confirmed investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the foreigners’ presence in the community and whether any laws were breached.
“The command urged residents to remain calm and continue to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and activities,” Makama said.
“It also reassured the public that all necessary steps were being taken to ensure the safety and security of communities across the state.”