The police have arraigned four men who allegedly kidnapped nine policemen on May 24, 2014, at the Arepo area of Ogun State.
The accused, who were on Tuesday arraigned on 10 counts of terrorism, include one Sgt. Akowe Jacob, 41 years old.
Others were 36-year-old Godwin German, Tamarami Tunwa, 23, and Mayibi Hazeez, 29.
The prosecutor, Mr. Raymon Odion, listed the kidnapped policemen as ASP Abdullahi Bature; Inspector Raymond Oriere; Inspector Usman Muhammed; Inspector Oguntimehin Kolawole and Inspector Tijani Jimoh.
The prosecutor told the court that the accused kidnapped the victims at about 9am on the fateful, adding that the crime contravened Section 2(c) (ii) of the Terrorism Prevention Act.
Odion said the four accused were liable to punishment under Section 33(1) (a) of the same Act, which prescribes a jail term of up to 20 years upon conviction.
However, after the 10 counts were read to the accused, they all pleaded not guilty.
The prosecutor sought for an order to remand them in prison custody, as well as adjournment for commencement of trial.
However, the defence counsel, Chief S.W. Baidi, informed the court of a bail application filed for the accused and urged the court to grant them bail in terms that would be convenient for the court.
“My Lord, bail is a discretionary remedy but the Constitution allows the applicants the benefit of presumption of innocence until proven otherwise.
“My Lord, the offence that the defendants were charged with is a bailable offence, which attracts not more than 20 years if convicted.
“The accused persons are all responsible, especially the third defendant, who is a sergeant and has not been dismissed. He was in the process of writing promotional exam for the rank of Inspector when he was arrested,” Baidi said.
Justice Muhammed Yunusa has adjourned till September 15, 2015 to rule on the bail application.
PUNCH
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