Seven Poles Arrested in Nigeria for Raising Russian Flags During Protests

Nigeria detained seven Polish nationals for displaying Russian flags during protests against economic reforms. The protests, sparked by the ending of subsidies and high inflation, have resulted in 22 deaths. The Polish foreign ministry is investigating the situation, while Nigerian authorities label the act as treason.

Nigerian authorities have detained seven Polish nationals in the northern state of Kano for raising Russian flags during recent anti-government demonstrations, a spokesperson for the state security service, Peter Afunanya, announced on Wednesday. The protests, which began on Aug. 1, are in response to President Bola Tinubu's economic policies that include the removal of petrol and electricity subsidies and a currency devaluation, leading to record-high inflation.

Amnesty International reports that the protests turned deadly in at least six northern states, resulting in the deaths of 22 people, including several in Kano. Banners promoting Russian influence have added to concerns of increased Russian activity in western Africa, prompting security forces to detain those responsible for displaying these flags.

The Department of State Services detained the Polish nationals as part of efforts to maintain security, Afunanya said, but did not specify their identities. Polish consul Stanislaw Gulinski confirmed the arrests and indicated they were transferred to Abuja. The Polish foreign ministry stated it is working with Nigerian authorities to understand the situation and support the detainees.

General Christopher Musa, Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, condemned the display of foreign flags as a 'treasonable offence' during security talks with President Tinubu. Meanwhile, the Russian embassy in Nigeria has denied any involvement in the protests.

(With inputs from agencies.)