The Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps said that its operatives arrested seven suspected thugs during last Thursday’s fuel hike protest by commercial vehicle operators in Ilorin, Kwara State capital.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the NSCDC spokesman in the state, Ayoola Michael, said the suspects were allegedly involved in unlawful and violent conduct during the protest.
He stated, “On Thursday, September 5th 2024, one Olusegun Taiwo (F) of Sango area of Ilorin 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.
“Upon receiving the report, operatives of the NSCDC Kwara State Command 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 terrorising and causing public unrest in Ilorin, particularly the Sango area.
“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 the Ilorin metropolis.”