Shock and apprehension have greeted the recent revelation that 50 hardened criminals have joined the police constabulary force in Kano state.

According to reports, the former criminals were recruited by the police under a new programme called the “Criminal Rehabilitation and Reintegration Programme”.

The programme it was explained was designed to rehabilitate former criminals and reintegrate them into society by giving them jobs including in the police force.

The recruitment of hardened criminals into the police force has been met with mixed reactions from the public.

Understandably, while some people believe that the programme is a good idea, as it will give former criminals a chance to redeem themselves and become productive members of society, others are concerned that the program will put the public at risk, as the former criminals may be more likely to commit crimes while on the job.

The police have defended the programme, saying that the criminals have been thoroughly screened and that they are confident that they will not pose a risk to the public.

“Today is a happy day for the good people of Kano State and the Police Command because we passed out fifty youths from the two hundred and twenty-two repentant thugs who have since surrendered themselves and promised never to engage in thuggery activities (Fadan Daba) and other social vices that have been bedevilling the state especially during the 2nd quarter of the year 2023. A total of 222 repentant thugs were received, he said.

The CP added, “We have forwarded their details to the State Governor during our friendly football match with them at Sani Abacha Stadium Kofar Mata, Kano, for them to be supported by way of engaging them in some life-changing programs.

“It is from this number that fifty (50) volunteered to work with the Police and to contribute to the security and development of the state.

“Taking into consideration their commitment to ensuring peace in the state since their repentance, we trained them in classes and the field and kitted them as members of the Special Constabulary.

“Today, they proved to us that the security of Kano is their concern and they will not allow any insecurity elements to jeopardize the peace being enjoyed in the state”, he further assured.

The police have also said that the programme will help to improve the relationship between the police and the community, as it will show that the police are committed to rehabilitating former criminals.