The Gombe State Police Command on Tuesday paraded 10 suspects with Russian flags during the #EndBadGovernanceProtest.
Briefing Journalists at the State Criminal Investigation Department of the command Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Usman, said the outright display of another country’s flag is disrespectful to the national symbols.
Representative by the Public Relations Officer ASP Buhari Abdullahi, said the protesters were arrested in the violent protest utterly showed disrespect to the country.
He said, “Raising of foreign flags on 5th August; 2024 we have also seen the unsettling display of foreign flags by some protesters. This act not only disrespects our national symbols but also commits treasonable felony related offences. Hence, 10 suspects were arrested flying Russian flags.
“The command primary goal remains to restore peace and order, protect life and property. We are committed to a measured response, ensuring that the rights of peaceful protesters are respected while addressing those who engage in violence or unlawful activities.”
While parading those involved in looting of property across private and public establishments, Usman added “Looting of public and private property: The looting of both public and private property during these protests is a grave concern. For instance, Gombe State Revenue Recovery Tribunal, Bima Lodge, Gombe State Bureau of public service reform, NITEL Company and Blue -J motors among others. Such actions not only undermine the rule of law but also disrupt communities and harm businesses. However, the command is coordinating with local communities and other agencies to address these illegal activities and hold those responsible accountable. Therefore, 92 suspects were arrested with some of the vandalised and stolen property and they are still under investigation.”
He noted that nine suspects were nabbed for partaking in violent acts, “the attack led to serious injury to the police officers and damage to the police vehicles. These acts of violence acts are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Hence, nine suspects were arrested in connection with the attacks,” the Commissioner added.
