Three hoodlums killed in Gombe clashes

No fewer than three persons were reportedly killed on Tuesday by hoodlums popularly known as Kalare boys in the Bolari area of Gombe State.

Disclosing this on Wednesday during a press briefing at the headquarters of the Gombe State sector of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Commandant, Muhammad Bello, said the killings had nothing to do with the forthcoming protest, saying that about 600 officers had been deployed.

He said, “I want to correct an impression about an incident that happened yesterday (Tuesday). It’s not related to the mass protest but the usual thing with the Kalare people in the state. The Kalari boys killed three at Bolari but it had nothing to do with the protest. Within their ranks, they had a misunderstanding which led to clashes. I just want to emphasise it’s not related to the protest. We are ever ready, combatant ready but not going to shoot anyone.”

Speaking about the readiness of his officers and men, Bello added, “In the history of this country, there had never been any peaceful demonstration. We are ready not for war but for any situation. We will go out to safeguard the assets of federal, state and local government areas. We have deployed 600 officers across the state.”

Bello while disclosing the importance  of collaboration said “We must work in synergy with other security agencies. You have to collaborate with other security agencies to protect lives and property.”

While restating the resolve of his command to ensure the protection of lives and property, he called for the return of those on break and the special protection of individuals. “Anyone you know who has more than one of our officers should be called back. Protection of property is free. Anyone who comes requesting for security cover should be given,” Bello added.

When contacted, the Commissioner of Police Gombe State, Hayatu Usman, who couldn’t confirm the death cases said, “I heard it and I tried to confirm from my officers. I learnt that there were two opposing groups who went and engaged themselves in a fight over supremacy and in the process, they injured themselves.”

When asked how many persons were arrested, Usman said, “There are people who were mentioned and we are investigating. I can assure you we will get them. Already, many are assisting us to get those involved.”