The Kano State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 288 suspected thugs during Saturday’s by-election in the Bagwai/Shanono and Ghari/Tsanyawa constituencies of the state.
The election was conducted to fill the vacant seat left by the late Halilu Kundila, a member of the Kano State House of Assembly who died after a brief illness.
Police Commissioner, speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said the suspects were rounded up after they were found intimidating voters with dangerous weapons across several polling units.
According to him, the heavy presence of armed thugs created fear among eligible residents, discouraging many from coming out to exercise their civic rights.
“The police have apprehended 288 suspected thugs for disrupting the election process and have commenced intensive investigations. The command is working to identify those behind the thuggery, including possible candidates in the election,” he said.
Despite the security challenges, the police assured that the situation was under control with the support of other security agencies.
The Commissioner further appealed to residents to remain calm, cooperate with security personnel, and assured them of their safety as the electoral process continues.
