Security operatives in Kano on Saturday arrested no fewer than 170 suspected political thugs during the by-election in Shanono Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects were apprehended in a joint operation involving the Police, Nigerian Army, and the Department of State Services (DSS) as part of measures to ensure a peaceful and credible exercise.
Eyewitnesses told PLATFORM TIMES that the heavily armed security operatives stormed the area following intelligence reports of planned violence by hired thugs allegedly working for some political interests.
Confirming the arrest, a senior police officer who spoke on condition of anonymity said the operation was part of a coordinated strategy to forestall electoral malpractice and safeguard lives and property.
He said, “We deployed personnel across sensitive areas to maintain law and order. Those arrested will be profiled and investigated. Anyone found culpable will face prosecution.”
The arrests came amid rising concerns over vote-buying, ballot box snatching, and intimidation of voters in some polling units across the state.
Meanwhile, videos circulating on social media showed dozens of young men being paraded into security trucks, while residents hailed the action as a step toward curbing electoral violence.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had earlier assured voters of adequate security, urging them to exercise their franchise without fear.
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