15 suspects arrested after Abuja market clash

Security officials at the instance of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have raided forests around Jiwa, Dei-Dei and its environs, arresting five suspects.

The operation was in the aftermath of the recent clash at Dei-Dei market between traders and motorcycle operators.

Some persons were killed in the fight.

A week after the mayhem, residents of Dei-Dei and the surrounding communities still fear that miscreants hibernating in the forests could attack them.

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The Sarkin Jiwa, HRH Alhaji Idris Musa who endorsed the raid, confirmed that the forests harbour criminals.

Senior Special Assistant on Monitoring, Inspection and Enforcement to FCT Minister, Ikharo Attah said the operation was necessitated by public outcry against the activities of scavengers, popularly known as Baban Bolas.

He bemoaned a situation where scavengers move around with dangerous weapons, attacking innocent residents.

He said the raid will be extended to other places where criminal elements hide.