The Borno State Government on Wednesday warned local vigilance groups, otherwise called ‘Civilian JTF’ against the arrest or detention of suspected Boko Haram terrorists or other criminals.
State Governor Kashim Shettima said this in Maiduguri at the end of the training of the second batch of beneficiaries of the state youth orientation and empowerment scheme.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Alhaji Zanna Mustapha, said the duty of the vigilantes was to liaise with security agencies in their efforts to fight crime.
He said, “It is important to note that you have no power to arrest or detain anybody but you should liaise with security agencies with whom you will be working. You do not have powers to create detention cells or detain suspected criminals because it is illegal.
“We have received information that some of you have already started creating detention camps for suspects; you must stop the practice immediately. Any persons, who engage in such practice, will be made to face prosecution according to the law.”
The governor also warned the vigilantes against criminal acts such as stealing and harassment of innocent persons.
Shettima added, “With the training you have acquired, government will employ you and deploy you to work with our security agencies.
“This does not give you the licence to steal or harass innocent persons in your area of operations,” he added
NAN
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