The Katsina State Police Command reportedly apprehended over fifty suspects in connection with the destruction and looting of government and public properties during Thursday’s nationwide protest held in the state.
In a statement, Police Spokesman ASP Abubakar Sadiq said efforts have been intensified to arrest individuals identified as being involved in the looting of private and public properties.
The statement urged parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against engaging in unlawful activities, including violent protests, vandalism, and looting of public or private properties.
It further encouraged the youths to exercise restraint and avoid being used as tools for violence.
According to the statement, the command, in collaboration with other security agencies, will conduct regular patrols to ensure full compliance with the curfew imposed across the state. It warned that anyone found violating the curfew will face decisive action.
The statement also appealed to the general public to cooperate with security agencies and stay indoors during curfew hours.
“Let’s work together to maintain peace and order in our state.
“Due to the current security concerns in light of the nationwide protests turning violent in some parts of the state, the Katsina State Police Command commenced enforcement of the Katsina State Government imposed 24-hour curfew in Dutsinma Local Government Area (LGA) and a 7:00 pm to 7:00 am curfew in the rest of the Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state, effective immediately.
“The 24-hour curfew in Dutsinma LGA is necessary to ensure public safety and prevent further escalation of violence, vandalism, and looting of public and private properties, while the 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. curfew in the rest of the state is aimed at preventing nocturnal criminal activities and maintaining law and order throughout the state.
“Additionally, we wish to debunk the circulating rumors and misinformation that police personnel shot live ammo at protesters, resulting in loss of lives.
“We assure the members of the public that our officers exercised the maximum level of restraint and professionalism in handling the violent protesters.
“There is no record of any fatalities resulting from police actions as of the time of these reports”, the statement added.