The Nigerian Police, Lagos State Division have arraigned 83 persons said to be suspects in the attack and looting of South African-owned businesses – Shoprite and Pep. The looting was carried out as a protest against the attack and killing of Nigerians in South Africa.
A few days ago, some Nigerians attacked several businesses belonging to South Africans in different parts of the country. The angry Protesters went en masse to destroy Shoprite malls, MTN offices and a Pep store.
Charges levied against the suspects: The suspects, who were arrested, have been arraigned before the Lagos State Magistrates’ Court at Yaba on six counts charges bordering on conspiracy, riotous assembly, arson, stealing, malicious damage, unlawful destruction of property and conduct likely to cause the breach of peace.
[READ MORE: Xenophobia: MTN Nigeria discloses date for resumption after office shut down]
The police made known that the Nigerian Government warned that violence was not the answer. Some celebrities, influencers and other people also warned against violence but the angry protesters went ahead to loot and destroy property.
More details: The police have also warned Nigerians to desist from buying anything from those who stole items from the stores. The State Police Public Relations Officer, Bala Elkana made it known that some of the expensive looted items especially smartphones, wristwatches and other electronics could be tracked and anyone found guilty of buying the products from the looters would be dealt with.
Elkana went on to say that surveillance was mounted in a bid to recover the stolen items from the possible buyers or the persons who actually stole them.
“The punishment for receiving stolen goods is tougher than that for the person who stole except the person used weapons to steal. It is assumed that you intentionally bought stolen items since you bought from an unusual place.”
He, therefore, advised prospective buyers to make their purchases from recognised stores and shops to save themselves from embarrassment.
[READ ALSO: Xenophobia: Botswana, Nigeria caution citizens travelling to South Africa]