The Enugu State Police Command said it lost two police officers, who were allegedly murdered by thugs during the violence that unfolded in the state recently. 

Enugu police commissioner Ahmad Abdurrahman said on Wednesday that 23 suspects were arrested for their alleged roles in the violence. Officers recovered 13 machetes, a bag containing 36 mobile phones, some materials suspected to be charms, an iron with the shape of a gun and N26,175 cash from the suspects. 

Police said the suspects were arrested in different parts of Enugu metropolis during the protest. 

“They were arrested for alleged riotous acts, murder, arson, armed robbery, malicious damage, stealing, obstruction and breach of public peace, amongst other violent crimes,” Mr. Abdurrahman said.

He accused the attackers of causing havoc of unimaginable proportion, destroying public and private facilities within the metropolis. 

Assets raised included a police division in Emene with its two Toyota Hilux operations vehicles and other vehicles and exhibits.

Amechi-Idodo Police Station, Akwatta Police Post under the Central Police Station, Maryland Police Post under Uwani Police Division and Phase 6 Police Post, under Trans-Ekulu Police Division, were all burnt down, police said.

The rampage also led to looting and destruction of the newly-built Nigeria Immigration Service office complex in Emene.

The National Identity Management Commission office building, Emene, was set ablaze. Njodo Development Centre, Emene and the Enugu North Local Government Council Secretariat’s security house were burnt, while some office buildings were also destroyed. 

The University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus’ security house was vandalised alongside some banks and business premises in the area.

Mr. Abdurrahman said the command was ready to carry out the directives of Inspector-General Mohammed Adamu to reclaim public space and restore normalcy. 

“I have directed all area commanders, divisional police officers, heads of tactical and operational departments to comply with and enforce the directive to the letter,” the police chief said, urging residents to remain peaceful going forward.

Nearby states of Anambra, Abia and Ebonyi also suffered looting and destruction of public and private assets amidst a breakdown of order across the country last week.