BREAKING: IG orders immediate arrest of Shi’ite leaders nationwide

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Adamu, has directed all the Police formations nationwide to arrest leaders of the proscribed Islamic Movement in Nigeria, IMN, otherwise known as Shi’ite, across the country .

The directive was contained in a signal from the Force Headquarters to all State Police Commands and Zonal Headquarters dated August 30, 2019, which directed immediate strict compliance.

Adamu said the force would not allow the Shi’ite members to violate the proscription of the IMN by the court.

The IGP blamed the group for the death of Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of operations, Federal Capital Territory Police Command, Umar Usman and a youth corps member, Precious Owolabi, who were killed during the violent protest by the group on July 22.

According to the signal, “As you are aware that this necessitated the setting up of a special investigation team of inquiry. The team had gone far in its investigations

“You will also recall that given the odious activities of the movement, the Federal Government obtained an order proscribing the group

“NIGPOL FORCID directs you ensure that identified leaders of the group and their structures are dismantled and their activities contained

“You are to inform me of your action for discreet investigation and possible prosecution of violators of the proscription order. Treat as very important.”

The police had earlier arrested 54 Shi’ite members after the July 22 violent clash between force and the IMN members in Abuja.

The Shi’ites were protesting the detention of their leader, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky who had been in the custody of the Department of State Services for over three years.

The Force Public Relations Officer , FPRO, Frank Mba, a Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP, could not be reached when contacted on phone but a Senior Officer at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, confirmed the development to newsmen, saying, the directive became necessary in the interest of the public.

When contacted for reaction to the planned onslaught against the IMN leaders, the Shi’ites spokesman, Musa Ibrahim, said the group’s leadership was aware of the IG’s order, adding that a statement would be issued today (Sunday).

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