Police in Nigeria has arrested eleven persons for failing to participate in the ongoing Ramadan fast.

Confirming their arrest to newsmen, the Director-General of the Hisbah board, Dr. Aliyu Musa Kibiya, said the arrested persons, three males, and eight females were sighted eating in the daytime during the Ramadan, which proves that they were not observing the fast, which is compulsory for healthy adults.

“We will investigate and if they have cogent reasons we will release them. Those found wanting will however be enlightened and even prosecuted if need be” Dr. Kibiya said

Kibiya said a woman should not be seen eating in public during fasting, “for whatever reason,” adding that the board will arrest anyone found to be eating during the day.

“Fasting is compulsory for healthy, adult Muslims in the month of Ramadan except for the travellers, menstruating women or old people.”he added

The Ramadan fasting period began in April 12 and all adult Muslims are expected to observe the fast.