The Kano State Police Command says its operatives arrested 61 suspected political thugs at the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally in the state on Wednesday.

The command said the suspected political thugs were arrested in its efforts to rid the state of all forms of crimes and criminality, especially during political campaigns.

The Kano State Commissioner of Police, Mamman Dauda, made this known via a statement issued on Thursday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna-Kiyawa.

Dauda said the arrest was made in line with the directives of the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, to ensure a peaceful election process and tackle the menace of political thugs.

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“The suspects were arrested on January 4, during political campaign clearance operations conducted during a political activity at Sani Abacha Stadium Kano,” he said.

The police commissioner said items recovered from the suspects include 33 Knives, eight Cutlasses, four Scissors, a parcel, and 117 wraps of Indian hemp.

Other items included three bottles of Suck and Die, 500 Exol Tablets, and a bunch of charms.

Dauda noted that all the suspects would be charged to court, adding that prior to the clearance operation, a meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security and a Peace Summit involving all critical stakeholders were held.

“Election stakeholders meetings were also held at Area Commands and Divisional Police Offices level.

“Political party leaders and candidates promised to cooperate with the Police and other security agencies in the state for a safer and more secure election process,” he said.

Dauda, however, commended the people of Kano State, other security agencies, the media, vigilante groups, and Community Policing Stakeholders for their prayers, support, encouragement, and cooperation.

“Currently, with a low crime rate and peaceful atmosphere in the state, the command will continue to remain steadfast in safeguarding lives and property in the state,” the police commissioner added.

The Star