The Rivers State Police Command has apprehended three individuals who disguised as protesters to steal point-of-sale (POS) machines and vehicle wipers during recent demonstrations against hunger and bad governance.
State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, made the disclosure while briefing journalists in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
After inspecting protest sites across the state, Disu expressed deep concern over the infiltration of the protests by criminal elements.
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He emphasized that the situation had escalated beyond the control of the original organizers, forcing the police to intervene to prevent further lawlessness.
Disu said, “I assure you, I will investigate what has occurred. However, I am aware that hoodlums have hijacked this protest.
“They have many individuals with them harassing members of the public. About an hour ago, we arrested three people who were stealing POS machines among the protesters.
“We also have thugs stealing wipers from vehicles and attempting to set tyres alight. The police have been responding promptly to extinguish these fires.
“These individuals are not genuine protesters; they are thugs who might have joined the protest or infiltrated it. I promise to investigate further and provide feedback on what I find.”
Disu observed that the protest had been hijacked by rogue elements, with factions operating independently across the city for nefarious purposes.
“The situation has changed. The protest has evolved from its original purpose. Groups are now moving around the town, blocking roads, coercing people to join them, and even threatening to shut down businesses.
“This has moved beyond a peaceful protest. I am very surprised by the escalation. You may have noticed the presence of many female police officers.
“A lot of my Divisional Police Officers are women, and they have been using their empathetic approach in their duties. They have built positive relationships with the protesters, offering water and biscuits. However, the protest has grown too large for the organisers to manage.
“Yesterday, there was a confrontation among the protesters, which led to them splitting into three groups. They have since roamed the town, harassing traders and threatening those who do not comply with their demands.”
