The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has called upon the public to provide any information that could lead to the identification and arrest of suspects involved in the looting of multiple businesses during recent anti-Finance Bill protests. The appeal follows the recovery of numerous CCTV footages by the DCI’s Imaging and Acoustic Unit, which is part of the National Forensic Laboratory.
In a statement released on Monday, the DCI highlighted the ongoing efforts to bring those responsible to justice. “Whereas some have already been arrested and arraigned in various courts today, more are still out there on the streets waiting for other opportune times to strike again,” the DCI stated.
The anti-Finance Bill protests, which were intended to be peaceful demonstrations against proposed tax hikes, took a violent turn as some individuals exploited the situation to engage in criminal activities. The surveillance videos captured several people committing acts of vandalism and theft under the cover of the protests.
The DCI has expressed its commitment to ensuring that those who engage in such unlawful behavior are held accountable. They have urged members of the public who might recognize any of the suspects from the CCTV footage to come forward with information.
“Our Imaging and Acoustic Unit has meticulously reviewed the CCTV footage and has identified several suspects who were involved in the looting. We are now appealing to the public to assist us in identifying these individuals so that they can face the full force of the law,” the DCI’s statement continued.
The footage shows various individuals breaking into stores and making off with goods, causing significant losses to business owners. The DCI emphasized the importance of community cooperation in maintaining law and order and preventing future occurrences of such criminal behavior.
The authorities have assured the public that all information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. They have set up a dedicated hotline and an online portal for citizens to submit tips anonymously.
The recent unrest has sparked a broader debate about the impact of the proposed Finance Bill, with many citizens expressing their discontent through protests. However, the DCI reiterated that while peaceful protests are a democratic right, criminal acts disguised as protests will not be tolerated.
As the DCI continues its investigations, the public’s cooperation remains crucial in bringing the perpetrators to justice and restoring peace and security to the affected areas.
