Niger govt warns communities against shielding thugs after Minna unrest

In response to the recent wave of thuggery and unrest in Minna, the Niger State Government has issued a stern warning to community leaders and residents against harboring criminals and social miscreants.

The Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, sounded the warning during a visit to neighborhoods affected by the violent activities. He cautioned traditional heads, known as Mai Angwas, that any community found protecting thugs would face serious consequences.

The warning comes amid heightened concerns over the safety and security within the Minna metropolis, following disturbances allegedly caused by hoodlums and street gangs.

Garba stressed that communities failing to report criminal elements would be held accountable saying that the measure is part of the government’s efforts to address the increasing insecurity and thuggery in Minna, the state capital.

The Deputy Governor ordered security forces to carry up operations in hotspot areas, arrest criminals, and restore peace to Minna and its neighbouring communities.

The deputy governor urged the public to report any crimes promptly for immediate action by the authorities.

Troubled areas visited are Dutsen Kura, Kpakungu Soje A&B, Morris area, and Tudun Wada police station, among other areas within Minna.

He was accompanied by the commissioner of police, Niger, Adamu Elleman, officials from the State Security Service, SSS, Nigeria Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, and local vigilante groups.

So far, 61 suspected thugs, social miscreants and armed robbers have been arrested by the police in the Minna metropolis.