By Austin Ogwuda
AS a follow up to our earlier story, the Delta State police command has come with the number of arrests made during today’s mayhem caused by commercial tricycle and motorcycle riders from the Northern extraction.
The command in an updated press statement released about thirty minutes ago said, “Today, 18th March 2024, a group of motorcycle (Okada) riders embarked on a violent protest within the Asaba metropolis, over their perceived maltreatment by members of the State Taskforce who enforces the ban on late-hour operations of tricycles and motorcycles in Asaba, at about 0800hrs.
“The protesters stormed the taskforce office along sunmit road, ransacked and destroyed vehicles and offices. Upon receipt of the information, the Assistant Commissioner of Police Department of Operations, ACP Efeizomor George, on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, led teams of operatives to restore peace and further put a halt to the rancorous demonstration within the metropolis. .
“To that effect”, the statement went on, “the team of police officers successfully carried out a raid of recalcitrant motorcycle riders who were embarking on this violent and destructive protest in Asaba Metropolis, Eight (8) male suspects were arrested, and Fifty-Three (53) motorcycles were impounded.
“CP Olufemi Abaniwonda reiterates the negative impact of violent protests on the economic growth of the State and therefore appeals to the public to remain calm and be law-abiding, assuring that the police command has the responsibility to ensure the safety of lives and properties, hence creating a safer and more equitable society for Deltans.
SP. EDAFE BRIGHT, ANIPR, FCIA, FIPMD
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
DELTA STATE COMMAND,
ASABA.
Photo caption: impounded bikes