Rivers police vow crackdown as protest turns violent in Rivers
The Rivers Police Command has warned the ongoing protest in Rivers State is assuming a frightening dimension.
The police said the protesters were engaging in unlawful acts such as extortion, destruction of vehicle and harassment of business owners.
On Tuesday, there were fears among residents of some areas in Port Harcourt following warnings by protesters on Monday.
The protesters warned residents, motorists and shop owners to either join the protest or stay indoors.
Many shops that opened on Tuesday were seen attaching braches of trees and leaves on their shops and businesses premises to show solidarity to the protesters.
At Rumuokoro area of Port Harcourt, protesters were seen going violent and setting up bonfires.
The police said the lack of clear leadership among the protesters was gradually leading to a breakdown of law and order and vowed to arrest and prosecute any one infringing on the rights of others.
Rivers police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, in a statement on Tuesday morning confirmed that the protest was turning another shape.
Iringe-Koko said the command was closely monitoring the protest in the state and was providing security.
