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Police arrest 40 Shiites in Nigeria’s federal capital over violent protest at National Assembly

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The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of forty members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) who were involved in the violent protest at the National Assembly on Tuesday in Abuja.

Members of the sect had marched to the National Assembly demanding the freedom of their leader, Ibrahim El-Zakzaky who has been in custody since December 2015.

The protest, however, became violent after they were denied access to the assembly complex by security operatives.

The protesters allegedly shot two police officers, vandalised the gatehouse and also burnt three vehicles, destroying many others.

Abuja police spokesperson, Anjuguri Manzah, revealed in a statement that 40 Shiite protesters were arrested and that investigation ps had been launched into the matter.

READ ALSO: Two policemen reportedly shot at NASS, as Shi’ites protest turns bloody

The statement read: “The FCT Police Command has foiled a violent move by members of the El-Zakzakky Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) to forcefully invade the National Assembly on Tuesday, 10th July, 2019.

“The group which started its activity, camouflaged in a peaceful procession became violent and were trying to force their way into the National Assembly. Police operatives on the ground, however, acted proactively, professionally and used minimum force to disperse the unruly protesters.

“Members of the sect during the violent protest shot two (2) police personnel on the leg, while clubs and stones were used to inflict injuries on six other policemen. The injured policemen have been taken to the hospital for prompt medical attention.

“Meanwhile, forty (40) members of the sect have been arrested in connection with the violent protest. Investigation is in progress.

“In view of the foregoing, the Command wishes to state unequivocally that while it recognizes and respects the right of citizens to peaceful procession, an attempt by any individual or group of persons to cause the breakdown of law and order will not be tolerated.

“Those arrested in the process will be dealt with in accordance with the appropriate law of the land.

“Members of the public are enjoined to go on with their lawful activities as normalcy has been restored, and adequate security measures have been emplaced by the Command to forestall any security breach.”

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