The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against banditry and kidnapping with the arrest of two notorious kingpins linked to violent crimes across Katsina, Zamfara, Niger and Kwara states.
The suspects were arrested recently during a covert operation carried out by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team, in collaboration with the Kwara State Police Command, along the Komen–Masallaci axis of Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State.
Those arrested are Abubakar Usman, also known as Siddi ‘m’, aged 26, and Shehu Mohammadu, popularly called Gide ‘m’, aged 30. They were intercepted and taken into custody at Komen–Masallaci village while attempting to move through the area.
Items recovered from the suspects include one brand new red Honda Ace 125 motorcycle valued at ₦1.85 million, ₦500,000 in cash, and one AK-47 rifle with a magazine containing 20 rounds of live ammunition.
Police investigations established that the motorcycle was purchased with proceeds from ransom payments, while the cash represented unspent ransom funds.
Security operatives said the suspects are members of a dangerous banditry and kidnapping syndicate responsible for terrorising several communities across four states.
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The gang is also believed to be involved in the supply of arms and ammunition to other criminal elements operating within the region.
Further checks by investigators confirmed that Abubakar Usman, one of the arrested suspects, was recently identified in a viral social media video where firearms and large sums of money were openly displayed, drawing public attention to his criminal activities.
The suspects are currently in custody and cooperating with investigators, providing information expected to lead to the arrest of additional gang members and the recovery of more illegal weapons.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has commended the operatives involved for their professionalism, dedication and intelligence-driven approach.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to dismantling criminal networks, curbing banditry and kidnapping, and safeguarding lives and property across the country.
The police leadership also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to strengthen ongoing efforts against crime and insecurity.
Crediblenewsng.com
