The Kaduna State Police Command has reported the arrest of 39 individuals during a protest on Monday that called for an end to bad governance. The demonstration turned violent, and the suspects were found displaying Russian and Chinese flags, which has raised concerns about their motives and affiliations. Among those arrested was a tailor who had made the flags.
In addition to the flag-related issues, the suspects were involved in vandalizing both private and public properties. Damaged items included a Hilux vehicle belonging to the Kaduna State Vigilante Service (KADVS), a Toyota Yaris owned by a journalist, and the offices of the Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Agency (KASTLEA) in Zaria, which were set on fire.
Police spokesperson Mansir Hassan stated that security forces, in cooperation with other agencies, intervened to restore order.
The police spokesperson reported that during the confrontation, the suspects became aggressive, using stones, catapults, and other weapons. The police were able to de-escalate the situation with minimal use of tear gas.
A total of 39 suspects were arrested at the scene, including a tailor who was making the foreign flags for the group. Among the items recovered were 38 Russian flags, one Chinese flag, two catapults with a bag of stones, and various vandalized items.
Kaduna State Police Commissioner Audu Ali Dabigi praised his officers for their efforts and warned residents to adhere to the 24-hour curfew, noting that violators will be arrested and prosecuted according to the law. The police commissioner also urged citizens to cooperate with the police and other security agencies during this critical time, emphasizing that the curfew is in place to protect lives and property and to ensure the swift restoration of peace in Kaduna State.
