Niger’s Commissioner of Police Links Out-of-School Children to Rising Crime Rates

The Commissioner of Police in Niger, Shawulu E. Danmaman, reports that the increase in crime rates among teenagers is linked to the high number of out-of-school children. In 2024, police arrested 713 crime suspects, rescued 37 kidnapped victims, and uncovered additional graves related to a homicide investigation involving a sibling and an herbalist.

The Commissioner of Police in Niger State, Mr. Shawulu E. Danmaman, has linked the surge in criminal activities, particularly among youths, to the alarming number of out-of-school children in the region. In 2024, law enforcement authorities apprehended 713 suspects engaged in various offenses, including homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and automobile theft. During a media briefing held in Minna, the state capital, Mr. Danmaman reported that the police managed to rescue 37 individuals who had been kidnapped, alongside seizing numerous firearms and munitions.

Moreover, he provided details regarding the tragic death of Hadiza Umaru, who was purportedly murdered by her younger sibling, Habibu Umaru, in collusion with an herbalist. The investigation revealed that Hadiza was poisoned under the false pretense of receiving treatment for alleged “evil spirits,” with her remains subsequently interred in a shallow grave. Further inquiries unveiled additional graves in the vicinity, indicating a more extensive pattern of criminal activity.

Niger State has seen a notable increase in youth involvement in crime, which has become a concerning issue for both law enforcement and the community. A significant contributor to this trend appears to be the high number of children who remain out of school, as education plays a crucial role in equipping young individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary for lawful and productive lives. In the context of Nigeria, where educational access can be limited, the implications are dire, leading to increased criminality and violence. This situation necessitates urgent intervention to address both educational deficits and crime prevention strategies.

In summary, the rising crime rates in Niger State, especially among adolescents, are attributed to the significant population of out-of-school children. The police, under Mr. Danmaman’s leadership, have recorded substantial arrests and successfully resolved kidnapping cases, yet tragic incidents such as the murder of Hadiza Umaru highlight the pressing need for comprehensive educational reforms and community engagement. Without addressing the root causes of educational deprivation, the cycle of crime is likely to persist, posing an ongoing threat to societal stability.

Original Source: dailytrust.com