From Mu’awiya Bala Idris, Katsina
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has signed an executive order aimed at curbing miscreants and thuggery activities across the state.
Radda explained that the decision was informed by the rising cases of gang violence, street thuggery, and public disorder, particularly in urban centres.
He reiterated that the government will not tolerate any form of lawlessness or any action capable of undermining public peace and safety.
The executive order, issued under Section 5(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended) and relevant provisions of the Penal Code, empowers authorities to take coordinated and decisive action against all forms of thuggery and related offences.
At the centre of the Order is the establishment of the Katsina State Kauraye and Thuggery Suppression Task Force, a multi-agency security body mandated to prevent, suppress, investigate, and prosecute individuals and groups involved in criminal activities.
The Task Force comprises key security and government institutions, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Others include the Katsina State Community Watch Corps, the Katsina State Hisbah Board, relevant ministries, and the Association of Local Government Chairmen (ALGON).
According to the Governor, the Task Force is mandated to identify, monitor, and dismantle miscreant and Kauraye networks, conduct intelligence-led operations, arrest offenders, and ensure their prompt prosecution in line with the law.
He added that the Task Force will intensify surveillance in identified hotspots, confiscate weapons and other dangerous instruments used in criminal activities, and work closely with communities to prevent the recruitment of youths into such groups.
Governor Radda further warned that anyone found engaging in thuggery or related offences would face the full weight of the law, stressing a zero-tolerance policy toward criminal behaviour.
To strengthen enforcement, the governor announced the establishment of mobile courts to ensure the swift trial and prosecution of offenders.
“The honourable attorney general will work closely with the office of the chief judge to establish mobile courts that will fast-track cases related to miscreant, Kauraye, and ‘ɓata-gari’ activities,” he stated.
He further explained that the Task Force will operate under the coordination of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, in close collaboration with relevant security agencies to ensure effective implementation of the Order.
Governor Radda reassured citizens of his administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, describing the Executive Order as a decisive step toward restoring peace, public safety, and social stability across Katsina State.
“We will not allow lawlessness to thrive in our state. This action demonstrates our resolve to protect our communities and uphold the rule of law,” the Governor said.
