Mosque and Vehicles Damaged, Police Officer Injured During Clash
In a tumultuous turn of events, a protest by enraged students of Kwara State University (KWASU) escalated into violence, resulting in the injury of a police officer and damage to properties in Malete, the university’s host community.
The upheaval ensued following a sting operation conducted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Malete on Wednesday night. The operation led to the arrest of 50 individuals, including 48 KWASU students, suspected of involvement in cybercrime.
Protest Turns Violent In Kwara State University, Host Community 7
According to reports from the Kwara State Police Command, tensions flared as students expressed their grievances over the raids on black spots near the university premises. The dissent culminated in a protest where students, carrying placards with slogans such as “Say No to NDLEA,” converged near the Malete Police Division.
Misidentification further fueled the chaos when students mistook a police vehicle for NDLEA operatives. The ensuing confrontation saw students pelting stones at the police station, causing damage to the mosque’s rooftop and several parked vehicles.
Commissioner of Police, Victor Olaiya, lamented the escalation, stating that efforts to pacify the gathering were met with resistance. In the skirmish, Police Constable Fayemi Kehinde sustained minor injuries from the barrage of stones thrown at the station. He received prompt medical attention and was discharged after receiving first aid.
The situation marks the delicate balance between law enforcement operations and community relations, highlighting the need for dialogue and understanding amidst heightened tensions.
Authorities are urging calm and restraint while investigations into the incident continue.
What you should know
REPORT AFRIQUE had on Wednesday reported that the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) apprehended 50 individuals suspected of involvement in internet fraud in Kwara State. Among those arrested are 48 students of the prestigious Kwara State University (KWASU), along with two others.
