Insecurity: Reps probe release of suspected bandits by police in Plateau

An investigation into increased killings in Plateau State, linked to banditry, particularly in Wase Local Government Area and adjoining communities, has been launched by the house of representatives.

This came after Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Idris Wase accused the police of sabotaging the fight against bandits by releasing arrested bandits.

Moving a motion during plenary on Tuesday December 14, Wase recalled how he intervened in several cases to ensure that the suspected attackers were traced and arrested, only to later hear that they had been released by the police.

He said;

“Mr Speaker, I am in pain because these people were arrested. As we speak, there is no prosecution.

“You only get to know to your surprise that they were released by the police.”

The Deputy Speaker recounted how a suspect linked to the kidnap of his driver’s wife, was released after being arrested by the police.

Wase who called for increased security at Wase Local Government area and interventions from the National Emergency Management Agency to reduce the trauma of the victims, revealed that bandits are regrouping in different places including his local government area in Plateau state after they were dislodged by security forces in Borno, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kaduna and other locations.

Contributing to the motion, House Deputy Minority Leader, Rep. Toby Okechukwu said;

“For the first time in the history of this country, all the six geological zones are battling one form of insecurity or another.

“It means that we must find solutions faster than we are doing.”

Deputy House Whip, Rep. Nkiruka Onyejeocha also said that no matter how highly placed anyone is, they shouldn’t be spared in the course of the investigation.

Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila thereafter named an eight-member committee to immediately investigate the allegation.

The committee which is chaired by the Chairman, House Committee on Rules and Business, Rep. Abubakar Fulata will be presenting a report after two weeks.