The Yobe State Police Command says it has recorded less serious crimes in 2015, compared to the year 2014.
Parading 17 suspects before journalists at the end of the year media briefing in Damaturu, the state capital, the State Commissioner of Police (CP), Zannah Ibrahim, said major crime statistics for the two years indicates that terrorists’ attacks recorded in 2015 stands at 19 cases, as against the 25 of last year.
According to the CP, other crimes that recorded decrease in 2015, compared to 2014 include; culpable homicide, kidnapping, unnatural offences, armed robbery, grievous hurt and wounding, as well as breach of public peace.
CP Ibrahim also revealed that rape and indecent assault offences against firearms and forgery of currency notes recorded various increase in 2015.
The Police Commissioner disclosed that four of the paraded suspects are believed to be involved in certificate forgery at the College of Education, Gashua.
While one is responsible for signing, stamping and issuance of forged certificates, two others were canvassing for interested “grandaunts” and the last person specialised in printing the certificate.
Musa Ahmed and Ali Yusuf, who are suspects to the crime, in an interview with newsmen, attributed his offence to an act of the devil.
The CP also disclosed that some of the suspects paraded were found to have engaged in the production and circulation of counterfeit currency, contrary to section 21 of the Penal Code Law.
He said further investigation revealed that the suspects had in their possession fake Nigerian currency totalling about 490, 000 Naira, Identity cards, a bottle containing mercury and forged land sale agreement, among others.
The Commissioner said that some of the suspects will be arraigned for culpable homicide, being in possession of dried leaves believed to be Indian herp or a control substances, suspected homicide and mischief, contrary to sections 221 and 327 of the Penal Code Law of Nigeria.
He appreciated the efforts of the state government, traditional institution, sister security agencies, the media and other security stakeholders in the state for their unflinching support given to the Police in the year under review, hoping similar synergy will be exhibited in the years ahead.
While assuring of a hitch free Christmas celebration, the CP said the command will intensify vehicular, foot and join patrol to ensure a crime free state.