The Nigeria Police say they have arrested 400 members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) popularly known as Shi’ites in Abuja following violent clashes between the protesting sect members and security operatives on Tuesday.

The Shi’ites had taken to some parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja to protest the refusal of the Buhari-led government to release their leader, Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky despite him being granted bail several times by the court.

The protests which started peacefully turned violent for the third time in less than one week. So far, several deaths and numerous injuries have been recorded as a result of the clashes.

Addressing a press conference at the Command’s headquarters, the FCT Commissioner of Police, Mr. Bala Ciroma confirmed the arrests saying several members of the group were arrested with about 31 bottles of petrol bomb made out of improvised explosive devices and other dangerous weapons.

He disclosed that the protesters burnt a Police Rapid Response Squad patrol vehicle deployed in Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent area to contain the violence, adding that the suspects would be arraigned in court as soon as investigations were completed.

Tuesday’s violent clash is coming on the heels of similar clashes between the protesting Shi’ite members and security operatives on Saturday last week and on Monday.