Gombe State Police Command has arrested 111 suspects in connection with recent violent protests, attacks on law enforcement officers, vandalism, and the looting of public and private property.
The suspects are also linked to the display of foreign flags during the unrest.
ASP Buhari Abdullahi, the Police Public Relations Officer, made the announcement on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Hayatu Usman, during a press briefing.
Abdullahi detailed the escalating violence in the state, which resulted in serious injuries to officers and significant damage to police vehicles.
According to him, among the arrested, nine suspects were detained for their direct involvement in attacks on police officers and looting during the protests.
He stated that key incidents of vandalism were reported at the Gombe State Revenue Recovery Tribunal, Bima Lodge, Gombe State Bureau of Public Service Reform, NITEL Company, and Blue-J Motors.
The Police spokesperson stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law, noting that such violent acts have a detrimental impact on communities and businesses in the state.
In addition to those arrested for attacks and looting, 92 suspects were detained in connection with vandalism and theft.
Abdullahi stated that the police have recovered some of the stolen property, although details on the extent of the recovery were not provided.
He added that on August 5, 2024, ten individuals were arrested for displaying foreign flags during the protests.
ASP Abdullahi described this act as disrespectful to national symbols and a treasonable offense under Nigerian law.
The police command stated its commitment to restoring peace, protecting life and property, and ensuring the rights of peaceful protesters while addressing unlawful activities.
Abdullahi also stated that CP Usman expressed gratitude for the cooperation of other security agencies and local communities in recovering looted property and restoring order in the state.
The command has called for calm and urged residents to report any lost property to the police headquarters for verification and possible recovery.
