By-Elections: Kano Police Arraign 333 Suspected Thugs
The Kano State Police Command has arraigned 333 suspected thugs arrested during the just-concluded re-run election in Ghari/Tsanyawa State Constituency and the by-election in Bagwai/Shanono State Constituency, both held on Saturday.
Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists on the outcome of the security operations during the polls.
He said the suspects were arraigned before Magistrate Courts 20, 27, and 44 in Nomansland, as well as Magistrate Courts 8 and 53 in Gyadi-Gyadi, Kano.
“All the arrested suspects have been charged to court for prosecution under various electoral offences,” the CP stated.
According to him, the charges include criminal conspiracy, disorderly conduct, possession of offensive weapons, intimidation, loitering without lawful excuse after voting or being denied the right to vote, snatching or destruction of election materials, improper use of vehicles, and soliciting votes on election day.
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Bakori explained that the elections were conducted under tense circumstances, with attempts by political actors to import thugs from within and outside Kano to disrupt the process.
He confirmed that the 333 suspects were arrested in Ghari, Bagwai, and Shanono LGAs, adding that several dangerous weapons and exhibits were recovered. These included one pump-action rifle, five locally made guns, 94 long sticks, 16 swords, 18 cutlasses, 32 locally made “barandami” weapons, 28 knives, a bow with 23 arrows, seven catapults, and 45 stones.
Other items seized were 14 motor vehicles, two ballot boxes, 163 thumb-printed ballot papers, and cash totalling ₦4,048,000.
The CP stressed that the command remained committed to ensuring that those who attempted to undermine the electoral process are prosecuted.
He commended the combined security agencies for their professionalism and coordinated efforts, noting that their vigilance was instrumental in containing violence, protecting voters, and safeguarding election officials.
By PRNigeria
