16 people have been taken into custody by Niger State police in Minna on charges of thuggery, public disturbance, and hazardous weapon possession.
SP Wasiu Abiodun, a spokesman for the command, confirmed the arrests and emphasised the police’s dedication to upholding public order.
According to Abiodun, on October 15, 2024, police searched a hotel close to the PDP Secretariat after receiving a tip. They discovered cutlasses, knives, cannabis, and other goods among the suspects, who were between the ages of 14 and 24.
He added the suspects emphasised that they were being investigated and would be prosecuted, saying they were celebrating a birthday and needed the firearms to protect themselves from a rival gang, the Kafintella lads.
Additionally, Shabban Umar, a suspect, was apprehended in Bajego with sharp scissors, while thirty other people were seized in Angwan-Roka and Maitumbi.
On October 14, 2024, the three suspects were taken into custody in Suleja for stealing a tipper truck valued at N30 million.
The vehicle was being disassembled for sale when it was found at a workshop. Investigations are ongoing into the suspects.
Jamilu Ismail, a suspected phone thief, was also taken into custody by the police in Maje, Suleja, on October 16, 2024. Ismail, who used a pretence to steal phones, was apprehended in possession of three stolen phones and is currently under investigation.