As reported by The Punch, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) arrested seven suspected thugs during the fuel hike protest by commercial vehicle operators in Ilorin, Kwara State, last Thursday.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Ayoola Michael, the spokesperson for the NSCDC in Kwara, confirmed that the suspects were involved in unlawful and violent activities during the protest. One victim, Olusegun Taiwo, reported a case of criminal conspiracy and theft, stating that while on her way to work on a motorcycle, she was attacked by youths suspected to be hoodlums, who forcefully stole her bag, phones, and other valuables.

“Upon receiving the report, operatives of the NSCDC Kwara State Command arrested seven suspected miscreants involved in unlawful and violent conduct, as well as mischief, during a protest by commercial tricycle and motorcycle riders in Ilorin on the same day.

“After a thorough investigation, it was discovered that the suspects are part of the group of hoodlums responsible for terrorising and causing public unrest in Ilorin, particularly the Sango area.

“The protest was overtaken by hoodlums, who exploited the situation, engaging in theft of personal belongings such as bags, phones, and other valuable items, which led to increased unrest in the Ilorin metropolis.”