The Kaduna State Police Command has announced the detention of 39 suspects, including a tailor producing Russian flags, during the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests. The command’s spokesperson, Mansir Hassan, confirmed this in a statement.
His words: “The command has successfully detained 39 suspects who exploited the protests,” Hassan stated. He explained that these individuals were seen displaying Russian and Chinese flags, and had allegedly mobilized to vandalize private and public properties.
According to Hassan, the damaged properties included “a Hilux vehicle belonging to KADVS, a Toyota Yaris owned by a journalist, and the KASTLEA office in Zone 6, Zaria, which was set on fire.”
The police spokesperson described the confrontation between law enforcement and the suspects: “The police, in collaboration with other security agencies, intervened to restore order. During the confrontation, the suspects became hostile and resorted to using stones, catapults, and other weapons.”
Hassan reported that the police managed to calm the situation with minimal use of tear gas.
He added, “In total, 39 suspects were nabbed at the scene, including a tailor who was sewing the foreign flags for the group.”
The police recovered 38 Russian flags, one Chinese flag, two catapults with a bag of stones, and various vandalized items. State Commissioner of Police (CP), Audu Dabigi, commended his officers for their professional conduct and issued a warning to residents.
“The CP also appeals to all the citizens to cooperate with the Police and other security agencies during this critical period,” Hassan stated..
In a separate statement, Hassan debunked rumours of a police Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) being hijacked by protesters. He clarified, “The video in question depicted a situation where the driver of the APC was confronted by a large group of protesters.”
Hassan explained the driver’s actions: “In the face of escalating tension, the driver made a professional and commendable decision to avoid the use of live ammunition. Instead, he employed a tactical manoeuvre to safely escape the scene, ensuring the safety of both the protesters and the officers involved.”
The police spokesperson emphasized, “It is important to stress that at no point was the APC hijacked by hoodlums. The vehicle and its personnel remained under the control of the command throughout the incident.”
Commissioner Dabigi urged residents to continue abiding by the law and maintain peace and order. Hassan concluded with the Commissioner’s message: “We appreciate the support and cooperation of the public in these challenging times and remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.””