The Kano State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of individuals believed to be hired thugs with the intention of disrupting the electoral process in the Kunchi Local Government Area. The State Commissioner of Police, Usaini Gumel, disclosed the arrests and highlighted the possession of arms by the apprehended suspects.
Although the exact number of arrests was not disclosed, Commissioner Gumel stated that the individuals in question were apprehended around the Kunchi/Tsanyawa area, one of the constituencies where the rerun election was taking place. The suspects were allegedly hired by a politician contesting in the election, and they were found in possession of arms.
Upon investigation, Abdulrazaq Muhammad, also known as Mai Salati, from Kano Municipal, informed the police that a candidate in the area had invited them. The police commissioner expressed concern that the individuals might have been planning to lay ambush on electoral officers transporting election results.
The decision to apprehend the suspected thugs was prompted by the need to maintain the integrity and security of the electoral process in the face of potential disruptions. Commissioner Gumel emphasized the importance of investigating the alleged involvement of the political candidate and understanding the motives behind inviting the individuals to the area.
This development follows earlier reports of disruptions in the election process in the Kunchi/Tsanyawa constituency, involving ten polling units. The police commissioner visited the constituency to assess the situation and address any challenges encountered during the rerun election.