76 Suspects Arrested with Russian Flags Handed Over to Abuja Investigators

The Kano State Police Command has transferred 76 suspects, including a foreign national, to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for further investigation on charges of sedition. These individuals were apprehended for flying Russian flags during recent protests.

In a press briefing on Monday, Kano State Police Commissioner Salman Garba disclosed that the arrests were made during ongoing nationwide protests against hunger. The Commissioner emphasized that the operation was part of the Command’s broader efforts to maintain law and order amidst the unrest.

“This press conference aims to provide a comprehensive update on the recent violent incidents, which led to widespread destruction and looting of government and public properties in Kano State. These acts were perpetrated by individuals masquerading under the guise of a nationwide protest,” Garba stated. He also highlighted the achievements of the Command in crime prevention, management, and control from August 1 to date.

Garba revealed that a total of 873 suspects have been arrested in connection with the protests, and a significant amount of stolen goods and weapons have been recovered. Out of those arrested, 600 suspects have already been prosecuted for various offenses, including criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbances, rioting, theft, mischief, and arson.

Furthermore, 150 individuals have been arrested and prosecuted for violating the curfew imposed by the Kano State Government. Additionally, six suspects alleged to be the masterminds behind the destruction, arson, and looting of the Kano Printing Press (KPP) are currently under investigation.

During the same period, the Command apprehended 41 individuals for major crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and car theft.

Recovered items from the suspects include two AK-47 rifles and various properties looted from the Audu Bako Secretariat, NCC Office, High Court Complexes, Kano Printing Press, and several supermarkets.

“Despite the challenges posed by the recent protests, it is important to highlight the achievements recorded by the Police Command in crime prevention, management, and control during this period. Through proactive policing strategies and community engagement, we have successfully arrested suspects involved in serious criminal activities, including kidnapping, armed robbery, human trafficking, and drug dealing,” Garba concluded.