The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested a suspected bandit and three car snatchers in separate operations, marking a major breakthrough in its fight against crime in the state.
The state’s Public Relations Officer, Mansir Hassan, disclosed the arrests in a statement on Wednesday. He revealed that the suspected bandit, 22-year-old Aliyu Umar, was apprehended in Zaria on December 16, 2024, with eight AK-47 magazines and 50 rounds of live ammunition.
“On December 16, 2024, at about 1800 hours, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, led by their OC SP Sani Ibrahim, acting on credible intelligence, intercepted and arrested a 22-year-old suspect, Aliyu Umar, in Zaria. The suspect was found in possession of eight AK-47 magazines and 50 rounds of live ammunition,” Hassan said.
During initial investigations, Umar reportedly confessed to being part of a notorious gang operating in Zamfara State. He also admitted that he had traveled to Barikin Ladi, Jos, to collect the weapons from an accomplice whose identity remains unknown.
Hassan assured the public that the police are intensifying efforts to track down the accomplice and bring the gang to justice.
In a separate operation, police operatives posing as buyers apprehended three suspected car thieves in Kaduna. The suspects – Kefas Danladi (24), Usman Salisu (23), and Yusuf Danladi (22) – were arrested after they attempted to sell a stolen Toyota Avalon.
Hassan explained, “Police operatives, posing as prospective buyers, engaged the suspects, which confirmed our suspicions. This tactical approach led to the arrest of Kefas Danladi from Gora Gan, Zangon Kataf; Usman Salisu from Unguwan Muazu, Kaduna; and Yusuf Danladi from Kauru, Kaduna.”
The suspects confessed to stealing the Toyota Avalon from a resident’s home in Naval Quarters, Asokoro, Abuja. The stolen vehicle has since been recovered and secured at the police station. The rightful owner has been contacted and informed about the recovery.
Hassan confirmed that investigations are ongoing to uncover further details about the criminal activities of the suspects. “The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation,” he said.
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The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Abdullahi, reassured Kaduna residents of the command’s commitment to ensuring their safety and security.
“The Commissioner of Police reiterates the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents. He also encouraged citizens to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police,” Hassan added.
The arrests and recovery of the stolen vehicle underscore the police’s determination to combat crime in Kaduna and neighboring states. Residents are urged to cooperate with law enforcement by providing timely information that could help prevent and solve crimes.
This success is part of the Kaduna State Police Command’s ongoing efforts to maintain law and order, sending a clear message to criminals that their activities will not go unchecked.