#special anti robbery squad

[olikaluku]

Chapter 1: ‘Dance to the unified sound’

Our acknowledgment and positive response to echoes of cries for a nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.

Ekan

#endSARS was a decentralised social movement petitioning for freedom from police brutality. The series of mass protests called for the disbanding of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS); a unit of the Nigerian Police with a long record of abuse on Nigerian citizens.

Originating in Benin City, coral beads (ekan) represent power & freedom of expression in Edo culture. ‘Ekan’ is a tribute to the 12 protesters who lost their lives on 20/10/2020 using their voice to defend liberty, peace and justice.

Coral beads also represent hierarchy and dominance, the use of broken corals depicts the dismantling of hierarchical abuse of power.

[dark-in-the-rooms]

GULAG history post pt 1

The idea of putting tf2 fucking lore in a historical perspective was slowly growing inside my skull for years. But that amasing post gave me the courage to give a fuck less about actual lore and more about how i feel about it. (That wasn't the intention of the author, i guess, but here i am.)

So, we have a caricature of a slavic (i guess?) man shaped by american propaganda. Propaganda people understand isn't true, but don't understand why exactly. In this post i will write about real historical events i keep in mind when i dream about my one and only comfort character.

Your TW for all things violent. Also i may be cringe in my commentaires. This isn't even a shitpost anymore.

What is GULAG?

GULAG wasn't just one camp or jail. GULAG stands for Main Directorate of Correctional Labor Camps (1930—1959). And you can see how many camps there was. We'll take it easy and name every camp or special prison settlement GULAG, because that's how everyone do it.

Who was sent there?

Everyone, excluding children from 1-1,5 years old and those who got capital punishment (execution by firing squad).

Why they were sent there?

Any ''normal'' crime like murder, racketeering, robbery etc counts. But i will focus on political prisoners. As always, you could do something normal for a citizen (being skeptical about some law or tell a joke about some politician) or you could do nothing at all, or you could be a member of any political movement that wasn't Bolsheviks (even in the past), or you could be just a wife or a mother.

Ditr, why are you so sure political prisoners were innocent?

I'm looking at modern police (some shit isn't changing). I am sure vast majority weren't even terrorists or anti-revolutionary in any way. You know how some politicians suddenly become major drug dealers?

Ditr, are you using official sources?

Mostly. But there is another thing that doesn't change: everything looks minimum ten times better on paper.

Some random detail:

There were quotas for the number of executed, imprisoned, and evicted. Like the production plans.

"According to the records you have provided, I hereby approve you the following number of people to be subjected to repression"

[oaryra]

What major historical events do you remember? What started as a drop in the pond in some small towns in Nigeria, rippled into a full blown protest across major cities in the country, with the hashtag #EndSars trending at number across all major social media platforms with the hashtag garnering 28 million tweets on Twitter; now X, alone. The protest was so huge that Nigerians in the diaspora and foreigners alike joined the trend, not only on the social media but also on the streets; in front of the Nigerian embassy, with celebrities such as Ex England and Manchester United footballer, Rio Ferdinand, Jamaican singer Sean Kingston, British actor John Boyega and American singer Trey Songz and gospel artiste Kirk Franklin all lending their support to the movement. BACKGROUND The Special Anti Robbery Squad was established in 1992 to tackle incidences of robbery, kidnapping and other violent crimes. Unfortunately, as with almost everything in Nigeria, this outfit would soon begin to morph into the very thing it was created to tackle. Over the years since its creation, it had been accused of high handedness, extortion, extra-judicial killings, kidnapping and various forms of human rights violation. In 2016 Amnesty International indicted the group of human rights abuse and other degrading practises. THE PROTEST(S) The 2016 Amnesty International report “shook” the barrel, a petition was signed by over 10000 people asking for the disbandment of the unit and submitted to the National Assembly, who in turn instead of disbandment, called for a total reform of the unit. You see why I used the word shook because, all these were perfunctory, as not soon after, SARS were back to their normal routine, if anything, they got worse and more daring. The Second EndSars protests Two separate incidences sparked what would be the biggest protest ever held in Nigeria, bigger even than the Aba Women’s Protest. On Saturday 3 October 2020, a video showing a SARS police officer shooting a young Nigerian in front of Westown Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, trended on the Internet. It was alleged that the police officers took away the young man’s vehicle – a Lexus SUV The trending video caused public outcry on social media, especially on Twitter, with the #ENDSARS hashtag trending. Just as the ENDSARS began to trend on Twitter, on Monday 5 October 2020, another report surfaced of SARS officers killing a 20-year-old up-and-coming musician named Daniel Chibuike, popularly called ‘Sleek’ in his neighbourhood. According to eyewitnesses, Sleek was sitting in front of a hotel with a friend when some SARS officers approached them, prompting them to flee. The officers chased after the pair, shouting “thief”, before shooting Sleek as they ran through a supermarket. His friend was then arrested. These were the sparks needed to ignite the nation as soon the streets were filled with protesters; many of them youths who were the major targets of these vile humans under the SARS umbrella. I must state that these protests were for the most part, peaceful, in fact, it was so peaceful that protesters were photographed giving food and water to police officers who were there to control them. There was one story where a police officer on seeing the mammoth crowd took to his heels but was caught up with and reassured that his life was not in danger. The police officer looked scared out of his skin in the pictures that trended online. These protests would soon start to deteriorate as state operators started to inject their spies into these crowds, these spies would wreak havoc, loot and attack other protesters. This guy is a political appointee today Various famous sites in the various cities were  the location of these protests, slowly all of Lagos State was abuzz with the EndSars movement, soon not only the youths came out to protest, but the adults too; parents who themselves have suffered police brutality or had some suffer it. The Lagos protest was massive, they moved like a snowball growing in size till they reached the tollgate where they pi...

[jayessentialsblog]

ENDSARS Anniversary: Commissioner of Police in Lagos state orders release of detained protesters in Lagos

Lagos State Commissioner Olanrewaju Ishola has ordered the release of all detained persons in connection with the #ENDSARS 4th anniversary at Lekki-Tollgate. SP Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the release of all protesters in custody. The #EndSARS movement began on October 20, 2020, against the unprofessional activities of the police Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). The protests led to the disbandment of SARS but also resulted in violence, with some police officers killed and many government properties damaged. Ishola personally attended the State Criminal Investigation Department to personally oversee the release. Read the full article

[ejesgistnews]

Human Rights Lawyer Inibehe Effiong Secures Release of Activists Arrested During End SARS Memorial at Lekki Tollgate. Inibehe Effiong, a prominent human rights lawyer, has successfully facilitated the release of 22 activists detained at the Lekki Toll Gate while they commemorated the fourth anniversary of the tragic Lekki massacre. Effiong confirmed the development through a statement on social media, expressing relief at the outcome of the legal intervention. Read Also: Breaking: Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja, Dies of Cancer? What We Know Now The activists were arrested earlier in the day as they gathered to honour the victims of the infamous incident on October 20, 2020, when security forces opened fire on peaceful protesters. Effiong detailed that he engaged in discussions with the Commissioner of Police to resolve the matter swiftly. "We have secured the release of all the 22 activists who were arrested this morning at the Lekki Toll Gate while commemorating the 4th anniversary of the Lekki massacre," Effiong stated. He further mentioned that the items confiscated from the protesters were returned following their release. The End SARS movement emerged in October 2020 as a response to widespread allegations of police brutality by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in Nigeria. Protests began as calls for the disbandment of SARS grew louder, with demonstrators demanding justice for victims of police violence and reforms in the Nigerian police force. On the night of October 20, 2020, thousands of peaceful protesters gathered at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos, demanding an end to police brutality. The situation escalated dramatically when armed security personnel opened fire on the unarmed protesters, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. Eyewitness accounts and video footage shared on social media captured the horror of the event, leading to national and international outrage. Victor Boniface, Super Eagles Striker, Cheats Death In the aftermath of the massacre, the Nigerian government faced significant backlash for its handling of the situation, including widespread protests across various cities. The Lekki massacre has since become a symbol of the struggle against police brutality and has ignited calls for accountability and systemic reforms within the Nigerian police force. Effiong’s actions highlight the continuous efforts of human rights advocates in Nigeria to ensure that freedom of expression is upheld, particularly during sensitive commemorative events. The quick response and resolution underscore the importance of legal representation in protecting the rights of citizens engaged in peaceful protest. Ejes Gist News reports that as the anniversary of the Lekki massacre serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles for justice and accountability in Nigeria, the release of the activists is a step towards recognising their right to protest and honour their fallen comrades. For ongoing coverage and updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Ejes Gist News, your credible news sources.

[streetreporters]

Lekki Toll Gate #EndSARS Anniversary: Nigerians Commemorate 4th Year Amidst Police Brutality, 22 Arrested (Full List)

Today, Nigerians mark the fourth anniversary of the historic #EndSARS protest, which began as a call to end police brutality and disband the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). The movement has become a symbol of resistance against oppression. Nigerians took to social media to share tributes and prayers, remembering those who lost their lives during the protests. The Lekki Toll Gate…

[lagospost]

Lagos Chronicles: Unveiling the Global Impact of Local Events

Lagos, Nigeria, a bustling metropolis that serves as the heartbeat of Africa's most populous country, is a dynamic tapestry of culture, commerce, and resilience. Amidst its vibrant streets, a series of events shaping Lagos Nigeria unfold, each weaving a thread in the fabric of global news and perspectives. As the world turns its attention to this vibrant city, the events within its boundaries ripple far beyond, shaping narratives and influencing perspectives on a global scale.

The EndSARS Movement: A Call for Justice and Reform

In October 2020, the #EndSARS movement erupted in Lagos, gaining global attention and sparking a conversation on police brutality and governance in Nigeria. What began as a protest against the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), notorious for its alleged human rights abuses, evolved into a nationwide outcry for systemic change. The events at the Lekki tollgate, where peaceful protesters were reportedly fired upon, drew international condemnation and ignited discussions on human rights and governmental accountability worldwide.

Economic Hub and Innovation Center

Lagos isn't just a city of protests; it's an economic powerhouse driving Nigeria's growth and innovation. Its status as a major financial center and tech hub in Africa shapes global perceptions of the continent's economic potential. The burgeoning tech scene, with startups and innovation hubs emerging across the city, showcases Africa's technological prowess and entrepreneurial spirit, garnering attention from global investors and tech giants seeking opportunities on the continent.

Environmental Challenges: Navigating Climate Pressures

Like many coastal cities, Lagos grapples with the impact of climate change. Rising sea levels and environmental degradation threaten the city's infrastructure and the livelihoods of its inhabitants. From innovative initiatives to combat plastic pollution to resilience-building efforts, Lagos exemplifies the struggle of urban centers worldwide facing the consequences of a changing climate. Its response to these challenges becomes a case study for other cities seeking sustainable solutions.

Cultural Richness and Diversity

The vibrant culture of Lagos, with its music, art, and fashion, reverberates across continents. The Afrobeat music scene, pioneered by Nigerian legends like Fela Kuti and carried forward by contemporary artists like Burna Boy and Wizkid, has captivated global audiences, influencing mainstream music and pop culture. Additionally, the city's thriving Nollywood film industry continues to gain international acclaim, contributing to the portrayal of African narratives on the global stage.

Navigating Infrastructural Demands

Lagos grapples with the paradox of being a city of immense potential and persistent infrastructural challenges. From traffic congestion to inadequate public services, these issues resonate with urban centers globally. The city's efforts to address these challenges, whether through infrastructure development or urban planning initiatives, provide valuable insights for cities worldwide striving to enhance the quality of life for their inhabitants.

The Lagos story isn't confined within its borders; it's a narrative that echoes across the globe. The events and developments within this city shape discussions on governance, culture, innovation, and sustainability worldwide. As Lagos continues to evolve and confront its challenges, its impact on the global stage remains undeniable, offering a multifaceted lens through which the world news perspectives from Lagos views the complexities of our times.

[crimechannels]

By • Olalekan Fagbade Two brothers caught allegedly by an angry crowd for touting . Two persons suspected to be brothers were on Wednesday burnt to death in Onitsha, Anambra State, for touting. In a video that had gone viral, bystanders were seen screaming,” These are touts collecting illegal levies around the Bida area of Onitsha. They were being set ablaze for touting. This is not good. The punishment is too much for just touting. They are children to somebody. This is the return of the Bakassi Boys. The alleged touts were seen in the video struggling to escape from bonfire, but could not. Reacting to the development, the Anambra Police Command condemned the jungle justice but described the suspects as notorious armed robbers. The state Police Public Relations Officer( PPRO), Tochukwu Ikenga said,” The Commissioner of Police, CP Aderemi Adeoye, has condemned the act and reiterated his call for members of the public to always take criminal offenders to the nearest Police Station for necessary policing actions, particularly the conduct of appropriate investigations. “The CP has, therefore, ordered a thorough investigation of the incident. “Meanwhile, preliminary information reveals that the two male suspects, who were later simply identified as Omaume and Monday, are members of a notorious armed robbery gang led by one Ikanda (male), already in the Correctional Service Custodial Centre. “The gang is alleged to be responsible for several acts of attack and the dispossession of traders and unsuspecting victims of their personal belongings at the Main Market, Onitsha.” Recall that the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, had last week launched the Anambra Special Anti-Touting Squad in his efforts to get rid of touts in the state. During the launch in Upper-Iweka, Onitsha, the governor warned that the days of touts in the state were numbered as a full-blown war had been declared against them. Soludo pointed out that in an environment where lawlessness had become a culture, bringing back law and order would be difficult, hence the reason for the exercise. He congratulated members of the squad who had been found worthy and offered to serve, urging them to serve with commitment, passion, and diligence. He also advised them to adhere to laid-down standards and the code of conduct guiding their operations. Soludo said, “Members of the anti-touting squad shall collaborate with the Nigerian Armed Forces, who have the primary responsibility to keep the state safe. “The launch of the squad is an acceleration on the key promise we made to the people living in the greater Onitsha area, which consists of Onitsha North, Onitsha South, Ogbaru, Oyi, and Idemili, to restore Anambra State, known for law and order, back to its full glory as the ‘Light of the Nation’. “When we assumed office, eight local government areas were taken over. Thanks to the combined efforts of our security agencies and the vigilante service with their support, those local government areas have been liberated and normalcy restored.” Soludo, however, urged the citizens to always remember the campaign of ‘if you see something, you say something’ and to put it into practice. According to him, phone numbers shall be made available to citizens to inform the government of any touting activities they noticed in the area. While warning all market chairmen, he pointed out that any market where touts are still operating shall be disbanded and the chairmen shall be removed from office, adding that each market chairman must take responsibility. “We have told the youths to come out from their hideouts in the bush. We shall help to rehabilitate and integrate them into society to be useful to their families, communities, states, and nations. “While dealing with hoodlums on a larger scale, we will be dealing with touts in Onitsha greater area and Anambra State as a whole. “We are fighting a war to bring back the soul of our society governed by law and

order, not a society where anyone does what he or she likes arbitrarily without recourse to law and order “Touts disturb customers who come from every nook and cranny of the country. But this journey is to rescue Onitsha as a commercial hub and Anambra State in general,” he added.

[hierarchyproblem]

"Police abolition is US-centric" please go to your search engine of choice and enter the phrase "special anti robbery squad"

Like sure the US has a uniquely diseased culture within and surrounding the police (although of course forces like the Met eat that shit up, they want to bring that over here) which makes the situation over there exceptionally horrible if your yardstick is like, Western Europe and North America. Policing in the global South gets much, much more oppressive than that.

[olikaluku]

Chapter 1: ‘Dance to the unified sound’

Our acknowledgment and positive response to echoes of cries for a nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.

Ekan

#endSARS was a decentralised social movement petitioning for freedom from police brutality. The series of mass protests called for the disbanding of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS); a unit of the Nigerian Police with a long record of abuse on Nigerian citizens.

Originating in Benin City, coral beads (ekan) represent power & freedom of expression in Edo culture. ‘Ekan’ is a tribute to the 12 protesters who lost their lives on 20/10/2020 using their voice to defend liberty, peace and justice.

Coral beads also represent hierarchy and dominance, the use of broken corals depicts the dismantling of hierarchical abuse of power.

[biglisbonnews]

Shorties: this powerful animation commemorates the lives lost in Nigeria’s #EndSARS protests Shorties spotlights films with bold ideas and fresh perspectives via an exciting new generation of POC filmmakers. Nigeria has long been a country fraught with political turbulence met with public outrage. From the #EndSARS (Special Anti-Robbery Squad) protests and online campaigns at the end of 2020, to the assiduous cost of living crisis, and a […] The post Shorties: this powerful animation commemorates the lives lost in Nigeria’s #EndSARS protests appeared first on gal-dem. https://gal-dem.com/shorties-the-days-to-follow/

[dch-news-22]

FG Has Fully Implemented Demands Of #EndSARS Protesters - Maigari Dingyadi

FG Has Fully Implemented Demands Of #EndSARS Protesters – Maigari Dingyadi

Muhammad Dingyadi, minister of police affairs, says the federal government has fully implemented the demands presented by #EndSARS protesters. In October 2020, protesters, under the #EndSARS movement, took to streets across the country to demand an end to police brutality. The protests had resulted in the disbandment of the special anti-robbery squad of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). The…

[jayessentialsblog]

ENDSARS Anniversary: Commissioner of Police in Lagos state orders release of detained protesters in Lagos

Lagos State Commissioner Olanrewaju Ishola has ordered the release of all detained persons in connection with the #ENDSARS 4th anniversary at Lekki-Tollgate. SP Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the release of all protesters in custody. The #EndSARS movement began on October 20, 2020, against the unprofessional activities of the police Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). The protests led to the…

[ejesgistnews]

Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines online Today, What are the top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines for Today?  Staying updated on the latest developments in Nigeria is essential, especially in today's fast-paced world. Here are the top 10 Nigerian newspaper headlines for August 26, 2024, that capture the most significant news across the country. From breaking stories to in-depth analyses, these headlines reflect the top news in Nigeria this morning. Whether you're interested in politics, business, or social issues, these latest Nigerian newspaper headlines will keep you informed. Dive into the top stories in Nigeria today and stay ahead with the latest updates. The latest Nigerian headlines for August: Here are ten top headlines from Nigerian newspapers for today, Monday, August 26, 2024: 1. Gombe Gov To Pay N70,000 Minimum Wage: Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has announced his intention to implement the new national minimum wage of ₦70,000 for workers in the state. The Deputy Governor, Dr. Manassah Jatau, confirmed this commitment during a meeting with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Gombe chapter. The state government has been paying a ₦10,000 monthly palliative since September 2023 to cushion the effects of subsidy removal. 2. APC Criticizes PDP Over Alleged Harassment, Seeks Apology To Minister: The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Wing Mobilisation Vanguard has called on the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) elders in the North West to focus on their internal issues rather than involving the Minister of Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle. The APC described the PDP’s allegations of harassment by the Minister as baseless and politically motivated. 3. Ex-Sokoto Gov, Tambuwal Loses Brother: Former Governor of Sokoto State, Sen. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, mourns the passing of his brother, Alhaji Ahmad Ibrahim Tambuwal, who died in Abuja after a brief illness. The funeral prayers were conducted at the Palace of the District Head of Tambuwal Local Government, and he was buried according to Islamic rites. 4. 2024 NBA Conference: Stop Looting Our Nat’l Treasury, Okonjo-Iweala Tells Political Office Holders: WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has urged political office holders to cease looting the nation’s treasury. Speaking at the 2024 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Conference, she emphasized that Nigeria has not progressed as it should due to corruption and mismanagement. 5. Rights Abuse: Tinubu Creating Another SARS – Atiku: Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for rising human rights abuses, comparing the situation to the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). Atiku highlighted cases of enforced disappearances and the misuse of the Cyber Crime Prevention Act to intimidate journalists and citizens. 6. Disclose Details Of Chinese Loans, Liabilities, Repayments, Others, SERAP Tells Govs, Wike: The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged Nigeria’s 36 state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Mr. Nyesom Wike, to disclose details of any Chinese loans, liabilities, and other external borrowing obtained, and guaranteed by the Federal Government as well as the terms and conditions for any such borrowing including the provisions on collateral.   7. Two Police Officers Feared Killed, Three Injured As Shi’ites Launch Attack In Abuja: At least two police officers were killed and three others injured following an attack by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), commonly known as Shi’ites, on some personnel of the Nigeria Police Force at Wuse Junction by traffic light on Sunday. 8. 130 Yoruba Groups Meet In Lagos To Discuss State Of Nation: No less than 130 pan-Yoruba groups will gather in Lagos on Wednesday to discuss the state of the nation amid the economic crisis, insecurity, hardship, and calls for cessation from different groups in the country. 9. Igbo Elders Demand Release Of Kanu,

Other Political Prisoners: The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) has called on the Federal Government to unconditionally release the incarcerated leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, and all political prisoners who are being detained in different parts of the country.   10. 36 States, FCT Get N3bn Each From Nigerian Govt To Combat Flooding, Boost Agriculture: The 36 states in the country and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will receive N3bn from the Federal Government in an effort to mitigate the impact of the recent flood disaster. That is all for today on Nigerian Newspaper Headlines. Click here more Naija News.      

[if-you-fan-a-fire]

"5 gunmen captured in shootout at Weston residence in Ireland," The Globe and Mail. August 8, 1983. Page 1 & 2. ---- [AL: That time Galen Weston, the father of Galen Weston, Jr., the current head of price-fixing grocery chain Loblaw's in Canada, was almost kidnapped by the Provos.] DUBLIN (Special AP) - Four gunmen were seriously wounded yesterday at the country home of Canadian supermarket tycoon Galen Weston when anti-terrorist police exchanged gunfire with a gang of masked guerrillas. Five men were captured but two escaped.

Police had received a tip on a possible kidnapping or robbery attempt and were lying in wait for the heavily armed gunmen at the secluded lakeside mansion in County Wicklow, about 45 kilometres south of Dublin.

Mr. Weston, 42, multi-millionaire chairman and president of George Weston Ltd. of Toronto, was at Windsor in England, where later in the day he played for the Maple Leafs in a polo match. The family also has a residence south of Windsor at Sunningdale and a home in Toronto.

Police sources said the outlawed Provisional Irish Republican Army was behind the apparent kidnap attempt. No group immediately claimed to have been involved in the shooting.

One of the wounded men was reported to be in critical condition in hospital, and three were described as "serious but stable." The fifth captured man was being interrogated in Dublin.

Last night the BBC said police had been expecting a kidnap attempt for two weeks and planted a decoy car at the estate "to make the gang believe the family was at home."

The terse police release said that "not less than five men" opened fire when surprised by members of the Special Task Force - the elite anti-terrorist squad that routinely provides bodyguards for politicians who returned the fire.

Police said the shootout occurred shortly after 8 a.m., but people camping nearby told reporters they were awakened by the crackle of machine-gun fire at about 4 a.m.

According to a senior officer there was a vicious hail of bullets involving at least 100 shots. The terrorists, wearing coveralls and balaclavas, "were well-prepared, that's for sure," one source said.

Two of the gang staked out the magnificent white mansion from neighboring fields, apparently ready to cover any escape attempt by the occupants, while the rest moved up to the house, the sources said.

In normal circumstances it would have been easy to do so undetected. The house lies at the end of a long tree-lined drive, and there are wooded areas all around the 200-acre estate at Roundwood, an isolated farming community deep in the Wicklow hills.

By the end of the battle the two men in the fields, one of whom may also have been wounded, had dumped their coveralls and balaclavas and fled. Last night police were combing the hills and woods nearby with tracker dogs.

Through his family company Mr. Weston has the controlling interest in one of the biggest supermarkets and clothing chain stores in Ireland, Quinnsworth and Penney's respectively.

Like most rich businessmen living in Irish country houses, he does not advertise his presence in the country. In the past few years scenic County Wicklow has attracted a number of best-selling writers, horsebreeders and trainers, and businessmen, some of whom have received "door knocks" from the IRA threatening reprisals unless they contribute to the "freedom fighters' fund."

In one case a dinner party of distinguished guests was tied up and robbed of money and jewels, the house ransacked for valuables and paintings. Rather than risk vengeance by filing charges or helping police, the guests agreed to say nothing.

It is not, however, usual for members of the Special Task Force, which is usually occupied in anti-terrorist duties on the border with Northern Ireland, to provide a guard for anyone but a politician. In the Weston case "they just got a tip off," one police source said.

The force has been on the alert for possible kidnappings since the October, 1981, abduction of Irish supermarket millionaire Ben Dunne, who was released unharmed after his family paid a ransom of about $1-million.

Mr. Weston is one of nine children of Garfield Weston, who parlayed his father's small baking business in Toronto, founded in 1882, into a multi-national conglomerate that includes the Loblaw supermarket chain and, among other subsidiaries, E. B. Eddy Forest Products Ltd. and William Neil. son Ltd. Galen Weston is a director of Associated British Foods Ltd. and the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce.

His Irish-born wife, Hilary, founded the Ireland Fund of Canada in 1979 to support peace, culture and charity in Ireland and Northern Ireland. The fund makes donations to recognized Irish charities.

The Westons have two children.

[seriousbusinessforhumans]

2020

Since 8 October, the streets of cities and towns across Nigeria have been filled with young protesters demanding the abolition of the Nigerian police force’s Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) unit. An undercover force first formed in 1992 with the purpose of tackling rising cases of violent crime -- including armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism and other forms of domestic terrorism -- in recent times, the group has come to resemble the criminals they were set up to fight.

In what is being heralded as one of the most culturally impactful movements in the country’s recent history, Nigerians have mobilised in their hundreds calling for an end to the indiscriminate violence, extortion, arrest, torture and, in the most serious cases, extrajudicial killings they’ve been subject to at the hands of the unit’s members. The overwhelming majority of victims of these crimes have been the nation’s youth, who report reasons for being targetted by SARS officers as absurd as dressing fashionably -- sporting dreads or dyed hair, for example -- or using an iPhone. Within this demographic, members of Nigeria’s LGBTQ+ community have been especially singled out, often simply for ‘appearing queer’, or expressing a gender identity or presentation not in line with heteronormative social expectation. Still, despite the disproportionate systemic brutality queer Nigerians continue to face, their calls for fellow protesters to recognise their struggle and amplify their voices are largely falling on deaf ears.

Though President Muhammadu Buhari’s announcement on Sunday of his intention to disband SARS, the protests are continuing in response to further injustices. Just three days ago in Lagos, police officers opened fire on peaceful protesters with one person losing their life and many more reported injured. In Abuja, the country’s capital, protesters were met with tear gas attacks and hose-downs. Indeed, these are just new additions to the long list of reports of young Nigerians experiencing brutality from the police force that’s supposed to protect them. According to Amnesty International, 82 cases of police brutality were documented between 2017 and 2020, a figure that only accounts for reported incidents.

At the height of the protests, a video of a young Nigerian man wagging a finger at a camera and chanting “Queer Lives Matter” began to circulate on Twitter. The video, shot on an open street in Lagos, has since garnered over 10 million views and more than 40k likes. Impressive as its engagement tally may be, what’s more important is the signal that the chant by human rights activist Matthew Blaise sends to fellow #EndSARS protesters, who remain oblivious to the particular ways in which SARS has oppressed members of the Nigerian LGBTQ+ community.

The unit’s actions are, shockingly, legally vindicated. In 2014, the federal government of Nigeria passed the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act, a law that not only stops Nigerian LGBTQ+ folks from marrying, but also criminalises the gathering of and affiliation with queer individuals. The result has been an unending wave of institutionalised homophobia, which occasionally manifests in violence.

“As a queer woman in Nigeria, I am targeted by SARS for so many different reasons,” says Uyaiedu Ikpe-Etim, a writer and filmmaker who has attended the protests and openly campaigned as a queer woman against the judicial targeting of queer Nigerians. “I'm sexually harassed almost any night I go out with my friends. My friends who are masculine-presenting women or feminine-presenting men are easy targets, and I’ve had to either witness this firsthand or listen to these stories helplessly. When I go out to protest, it is because of these experiences that are unique to us as queer people.”

(selected segments)