The Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) announced the arrest of seven individuals accused of engaging in violent and unlawful activities during a protest by commercial vehicle operators in Ilorin, Kwara State, last Thursday.
According to a statement from NSCDC’s Kwara command Public Relations Officer, Ayoola Michael, the suspects were linked to ongoing disturbances in several Ilorin neighborhoods.
The arrests followed a report filed by Olusegun Taiwo, a resident of the Sango area, who claimed she was assaulted by a group of youths while riding her motorcycle to work. The attackers reportedly stole her bag, phones, and other personal belongings.
Following the report, NSCDC operatives in Kwara State apprehended seven suspected miscreants linked to unlawful and violent behavior, as well as acts of mischief, during a protest by commercial tricycle and motorcycle riders in Ilorin on the same day.
Following a comprehensive investigation, authorities determined that the suspects were part of a group of hoodlums terrorizing residents and inciting public unrest in Ilorin, especially in the Sango area. The protest was hijacked by these individuals, who took advantage of the chaos to steal personal belongings, including bags, phones, and other valuables, exacerbating the unrest in the Ilorin metropolis.
“The NSCDC Kwara State Commandant, Umar Mohammed, assured the residents of Kwara State of the Command’s unwavering commitment to maintaining public order and vowed to take decisive action against anyone or any group engaging in criminal activities that jeopardize the safety and security of the state,” the statement read.
Michael also indicated that the suspects would face prosecution in court in accordance with the law.
