Seventy-six individuals arrested in connection with the display of Russian flags during recent protests in Kano have been transferred to Abuja for “discreet investigation.” The Kano State Police Command confirmed the development on Monday, revealing that the suspects, including a foreigner, will face sedition charges.
The arrests were made during a crackdown on widespread protests that took place in several parts of the country from August 1st to 10th over economic hardships. While the primary focus of the demonstrations was on economic grievances, the display of Russian flags by some protesters raised eyebrows and sparked concerns about potential foreign interference.
The Kano State Commissioner of Police, Salman Garba, explained that the decision to transfer the suspects to the Force Headquarters in Abuja was in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police. Authorities believe that a more thorough investigation is required to uncover the full extent of the incident and identify any potential links to external actors.
In addition to the suspects linked to the Russian flags, the police have also arrested and prosecuted more than 600 individuals involved in various offenses related to the protests, including criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, riot, theft, and arson.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
