Kano State Police transferred 76 suspects, including a foreign national, to Abuja for sedition charges following the #EndBadGovernance protests. The suspects were arrested for flying Russian flags during the violent demonstrations. Authorities also reported the arrest of 873 individuals and recovery of looted property during the unrest.
In a notable escalation of government action following the recent #EndBadGovernance protests, the Kano State Police Command has transferred 76 individuals, including a foreign national, to the Force Headquarters in Abuja. These suspects are now under investigation for sedition, a charge that underscores the government's serious approach to addressing dissent.
The arrests were made after the suspects were reportedly seen flying Russian flags during the nationwide protests, which turned violent in several northern regions. Kano State Commissioner of Police, Salman Garba, announced the transfer and outlined the broader efforts of the police in managing the unrest.
“The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, directed all commands to respond swiftly and effectively to the aftermath of these protests,” Garba said. He highlighted that 873 suspects had been arrested overall, with a significant number of exhibits recovered.
Garba specifically noted that the 76 suspects connected to the Russian flag incident were sent to Abuja for further investigation, emphasizing the sensitive nature of their alleged actions. Additionally, a foreign national among the suspects faces sedition charges, marking an unusual and potentially significant legal development.
The commissioner also reported that 150 individuals had been arrested for violating the curfew imposed during the protests, with another 600 facing prosecution for a range of offenses, including conspiracy, incitement, and arson. Among the recovered items were two AK-47 rifles, evidence of the serious criminal activities linked to the unrest.
Despite these challenges, Garba praised the Kano State Police Command for its effective crime prevention measures during the protests, noting the arrest of suspected kidnappers, armed robbers, and car thieves.
Meanwhile, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has announced the indefinite suspension of the curfew that had been in place to curb the violence. The decision, disclosed by the State Commissioner for Information, Halilu Baba Dantiye, came after a thorough assessment of the state’s security situation.
