By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
It was one more defeat for bandits and criminals in Kaduna state as the state police command made a successful inroad into their enclave in a bid to further secure lives and properties in the North-Central Nigerian state.
When the dust cleared, the police arrested one bandit, three car snatchers and recovered eight AK-47 magazines, 50 rounds of live ammunition as well as one stolen vehicle.
A statement by the state command’s spokesman, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mansir Hassan, Wednesday, which disclosed these, stated that police operatives successfully intercepted and arrested a 22-year-old suspected bandit, identified as Aliyu Umar, in Zaria, following credible information.
Hassan stated: “On 16th December, 2024, at about 1800 hours, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit led by their O/C, SP Sani Ibrahim, acting based on credible information, successfully intercepted and arrested a 22-year-old suspect, Aliyu Umar, in Zaria.
“The suspect was apprehended in possession of eight (8) AK-47 magazines and 50 rounds of live AK-47 ammunition.”
The statement added: “During preliminary investigations, the suspect confessed to being part of a notorious bandit gang operating in Zamfara state and that he travelled to Barikin Ladi, Jos, to collect the weapons from another accomplice, whose real identity is yet to be ascertained.
“In the same vein, on 16th December 2024, acting on credible intelligence that a group of young men were observed attempting to sell a vehicle under suspicious circumstances, police operatives, posed as prospective buyers, engaged the suspects and that confirmed the suspicions about their activities.
“This tactical approach led to the arrest of the following individuals: Kefas Danladi, 24 years old, from Gora Gan, Zangon Kataf, Kaduna; Usman Salisu, 23 years old, from Unguwan Muazu, Kaduna; and Yusuf Danladi, 22 years old, from Kauru, Kaduna.
“During preliminary investigations, the suspects confessed to stealing the vehicle from the house of a resident in Naval Quarters, Asokoro, Abuja. The stolen Toyota Avalon has since been recovered and secured at the police station.
“The rightful owner of the vehicle has been contacted and notified of the recovery. Further investigations are ongoing, and the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation.”
The state Commissioner of Police (CP), Ibrahim Abdullahi, reiterated the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents.
He also encouraged residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police.
