Kaduna Security Council Warns against Criminal Elements Disguising as Protesters

Kaduna Security Council Warns against Criminal Elements Disguising as Protesters

The Kaduna State Security Council, under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, has issued a stern warning against criminal elements attempting to disguise as protesters in order to incite unrest in the state.

Following a review of the current security situation, including the existing 6 pm to 8 am curfew and other public safety concerns, the Security Council announced that it will not tolerate such criminal behavior.

“The Kaduna State Security Council recognizes the fundamental rights of citizens to freedom of expression, lawful assembly and other constitutional rights,” said Samuel Aruwan, the Overseeing Commissioner of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs.
“However, the security forces cannot permit a situation wherein criminals masquerade as protesters to loot and vandalize public and private properties, and unleash terror on innocent citizens.”

The announcement comes in the wake of the events on August 1st and 5th, 2024, when the state experienced incidents of looting and vandalism, which the authorities believe were carried out by criminals posing as protesters.

“The ugly events of 1st and 5th August 2024 are clear indicators that criminals are pursuing an agenda to plunge the state into chaos, and are ready to camouflage these designs with otherwise genuine protests,” Aruwan said.

The Security Council has also expressed concern about the potential involvement of children and impressionable individuals in these criminal schemes, warning that the consequences of allowing such plans to flourish would be dire.

As a result, the Security Council has reiterated that unverified processions will not be permitted, citing public safety and security considerations. Citizens are urged to continue observing the curfew and report any suspicious activity to the Security Operations Room.

“The Kaduna State Government and security forces will not stand by and allow an anti-state agenda to run unchecked. It bears reiterating that criminals masquerading as protesters will not be permitted to wreak havoc,” Aruwan concluded.