The Kano State Police Command has transferred 76 suspects, including a foreign national, to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for a discreet investigation into charges of sedition.
This move comes after the suspects were arrested for flying Russian flags during recent nationwide hunger protests that turned violent in several parts of Northern Nigeria.
The update was provided by Kano State Commissioner of Police, Salman Garba, during a press briefing on Monday. Garba stated that the transfer was in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.
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The Kano Command has been actively addressing the aftermath of the protests, resulting in the arrest of 873 suspects and the recovery of numerous exhibits.
In addition to the 76 suspects transferred to Abuja, 150 individuals have been arrested and are being prosecuted for violating a curfew imposed by the Kano State government during the protests. Six suspects have also been detained for their alleged roles in the destruction, arson, and looting of the Kano Printing Press.
Overall, 600 suspects are facing prosecution for a range of offenses, including criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbances, rioting, theft, mischief, and arson. The police have recovered significant amounts of looted property, including two AK-47 rifles.
Despite the challenges presented by the recent protests, Garba emphasized the Kano State Police Command’s successes in crime prevention and control.
He highlighted the arrest of two suspected kidnappers, five suspected armed robbers, and eight suspected car thieves as part of their proactive policing strategies and community engagement efforts.
