By Milcah Tanimu
At least 26 protesters involved in the #EndBadGovernance demonstration in Kaduna State were remanded in a correctional facility on Monday. They were charged with criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbances, mischief by fire, participating in an unlawful assembly, and other offenses.
The suspects, arrested on August 1 at the Government House in Kaduna, appeared before a magistrate court on Monday. They were remanded after failing to meet their bail conditions.
**New Arrests**
In a separate development, the Kaduna State Police reported the arrest of 39 additional suspects on Monday. Among those detained was a tailor allegedly producing Russian flags for the protesters.
According to police spokesperson Mansur Hassan, these individuals were involved in vandalizing private and public property, including a Hilux vehicle owned by KADVS, a Toyota Yaris belonging to a journalist, and the KASTLEA office in Zaria, which was set on fire.
“The Kaduna State Police Command has apprehended 39 suspects who exploited the ‘End Bad Governance’ protest,” Hassan said. “These individuals were seen with Russian and Chinese flags and engaged in vandalism.”
The police recovered 38 Russian flags, one Chinese flag, two catapults with stones, and various vandalized items from the scene. During the confrontation, suspects used stones and catapults, and police managed to restore order with minimal use of tear gas.
**Call for Order**
State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Ali Dabigi, commended the officers for their efforts and issued a stern warning to residents to adhere to the curfew imposed to protect lives and property. He urged citizens to cooperate with the police and other security agencies to ensure peace and order in Kaduna State.