From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Nigeria Police Force, has recorded a major success in its ongoing crackdown on banditry and kidnapping with the arrest of two notorious suspects linked to violent crimes across several northern states.
The suspects, identified as Abubakar Usman, also known as Siddi, and Shehu Mohammadu, popularly called Gide, were arrested during a covert intelligence-led operation in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Confirming the development, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team, working with the Kwara State Police Command, intercepted the duo along the Komen–Masallaci axis.
Hundeyin disclosed that preliminary investigations showed the suspects are key members of a deadly kidnapping and banditry syndicate that has been terrorising communities in Zamfara, Katsina, Niger and Kwara states.
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According to him, the operation led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle loaded with 20 rounds of live ammunition, as well as ₦500,000 suspected to be unspent ransom collected from victims.
Also recovered was a brand new Honda Ace 125 motorcycle valued at about ₦1.85 million. The police spokesperson revealed that investigations showed the motorcycle was purchased with ransom money obtained from kidnapped victims.
He further revealed that the criminal gang was not only involved in kidnapping but also engaged in the supply of arms and ammunition to other criminal elements operating within the region.
One of the suspects, Usman, was said to have been on the police watchlist after he was identified as the individual seen in a viral social media video where he openly flaunted firearms and large sums of cash.
Hundeyin stated that both suspects are currently cooperating with investigators, adding that their confessions have already provided useful leads to other members of the gang and possible recovery of more weapons.
Reacting to the arrest, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their commitment and professionalism, assuring Nigerians that the Force would not relent in its efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the country.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and will continue to pursue criminal elements wherever they are,” the IG said.
The police authorities urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity nationwide.
