Hoodlums hijack protest in Kaduna, embark on looting, burning spree

By Mohammed Tijjani

The ongoing nationwide protest against bad governance turned violent in Kaduna on Thursday as it was hijacked by hoodlums who went on a looting and burning spree.

The hoodlums vandalised the offices of the State Traffic and Law Environmental Authority (KASTLEA) and the Investment Promotions Agency (KADIPA) in the guise of protest, looted many shops and also set a police Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) on ablaze.

They also attempted gaining entrance into Kaduna Government’s House, but were stopped by security operatives.

The spokesperson for Kaduna Police Command, ASP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the incident.

Hassan said, “The protesters also burnt an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), and looted many shops .

“They tried to invade Government House but were prevented, many of our personnel sustained injuries and they are receiving treatment at various hospitals.”

He added that 23 suspects have been detained, denying that operatives did not use live ammunition, saying that they only fired teargas .

Hassane appealed for calm and urged restraint by the residents.

(NAN)