Shi’ite/army clash: Police release 83 detainees, arraigns 191 for various offences

The Kaduna State Police Command has released 83 suspects arrested during the Zaria clash between the Nigerian Army and the Shi’ite Islamic Movement (IMN).
Among the released detainees are 34 juveniles and 49 women, just as about 191 suspects have also been arraigned for various offences, including obstruction of highways, possession of weapons and attacking security agents.
This was contained in a statement signed by Governor Nasir el-Rufai’s Special Assistant (Media and Publicity), Samuel Aruwan. The statement said: “The suspects have been placed on remand pending the conclusion of ongoing investigations which may lead to charges being filed at the state High Court or the Federal High Court.
“Adequate security measures would be put in place across the state ahead of Maulud, Christmas and New Year festivities. Citizens were advised to continue to be law-abiding and report to security agencies, traditional and religious leaders and the government any threat to peace and stability of the state.
Residents of Gyellesu in Zaria Local Government Area who fled their homes following the unfortunate in¬cident on December 12 are encouraged to return to their homes, as security agencies have been permanently sta¬tioned in the community to provide adequate security for citizens residing in the area.
“Citizens whose properties or belongings were aban¬doned on the streets, including vehicles, motorcycles and other properties were advised to retrieve their prop¬erties upon identification and proof of ownership.”