From HASSAN JIRGI Damaturu
Yobe State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 11 teenagers for illegal gathering and taking of suspected banned liquid substances.
A statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, stated that “On October 30 at about 0450hrs, operatives of ‘A’ Division Police Headquarters conducted a targeted raid at a known black spot within Pawari Forestry area.
According to the statement, the 11 suspects all below the age of 16 were apprehended.
He noted that the individuals, who are of different addresses within Maiduguri, Borno State, were found at an illegal gathering during odd hours. Items suspected to be harmful or illicit liquid substances were recovered at the scene.”
According to him preliminary investigations revealed that the minors confessed to involvement in pickpocketing and theft of mobile phones, mainly within crowded areas and markets.
He assured that efforts are ongoing to contact and trace their parents or guardians.
The command acknowledged that juveniles are often vulnerable to peer influence, exploitation and involvement in criminal activities when proper guidance is lacking.
However, the police do not treat children as criminals, but as persons in need of care, guidance and rehabilitation.
He also urged parents, guardians, community and religious leaders to pay close attention to the movement and association of their children.
They are to ensure that minors return home early and are not allowed to roam unmonitored, especially at night and engage them in constructive activities, such as school, vocational training, sports and skills acquisition.
The command assured that it remains committed to safeguarding public safety and protecting vulnerable children from exploitation.
AljazirahNigeria gathered that parents and guardians are to report suspicious gatherings or the presence of unknown adults influencing minors, while children are the responsibility of the family and the community. Early guidance prevents future crime; neglect encourages it.
