By Milcah Tanimu

Sunday Joseph and Timothy Danjuma appeared before the Upper Customary Court in Kafanchan, Kaduna State, facing charges of obstructing police officers on duty and other related offenses.

The defendants are accused of committing eight counts of criminal conspiracy, possession of illicit drugs, membership in a gang of brigands, and unlawful assembly, among others.

According to Police Prosecutor, Insp Esther Bishen, the defendants, along with others at large, allegedly perpetrated the offenses on April 23 in Kafanchan. A police patrol team encountered a group of individuals suspected of criminal activities, prompting the arrest of Joseph and Danjuma while others fled.

Bishen stated that during the encounter, the defendants assaulted two police officers, attempted to disarm them, and were found in possession of suspected Indian hemp.

The charges leveled against them are in violation of various sections of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law.

Upon hearing the charges, Joseph and Danjuma pleaded not guilty. The prosecutor requested an adjournment to facilitate the presentation of witnesses by the police.

Presiding Judge Mr. George Gwani granted the defendants bail in the sum of N150,000 each with one surety in like sum. The case was adjourned until May 29 for further proceedings.