The Niger government, on Sunday, warned communities against harbouring thugs and criminals. Any community found concealing such individuals will face severe consequences.

Yakubu Garba, the state’s deputy governor, issued the warning during a visit to areas affected by thuggery in Minna.

The visit followed recent reports of thuggery activities by unscrupulous elements in Minna metropolis.

Mr Garba stressed that communities failing to report criminal elements would be held accountable. This measure is part of the government’s efforts to address insecurity in the state.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling the increasing insecurity and thuggery in Minna, the state capital.

Mr Garba ordered security forces to ramp up operations in hotspot areas, arrest criminals, and restore peace to Minna and its neighbouring communities.

He further warned that any community harbouring criminals without notifying authorities would face repercussions.

The deputy governor urged the public to report any crimes promptly for immediate action by the authorities.

The deputy governor also visited Dutsen Kura, Kpakungu Soje A&B, Morris area, Tudun Wada police station, and other areas within Minna. 

He was accompanied by the commissioner of police, Niger, Adamu Elleman.

Others were officials from the State Security Service (SSS), Nigeria Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and local vigilante groups.

 (NAN)