Police Nab 47 Suspects, Recover Arms, Ammunition in Kebbi Crackdown — CP Hadejia
By Rashidat Okunlade
The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested 47 suspects and recovered a cache of arms, ammunition, and stolen property as part of intensified operations to curb banditry and violent crime across the state.
Addressing journalists on Monday, the Commissioner of Police, Umar M. Hadejia, said the Command had made significant progress since he assumed office on January 12, 2026, citing strategic reforms and strengthened collaboration with other security agencies.
Hadejia disclosed that the Command established a Violent Crimes Response Unit (VCRU) with the approval of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, as part of efforts to reinforce security architecture in the state.
He noted that Kebbi had faced persistent threats, including armed banditry, cattle rustling, motorcycle snatching, and cross-border incursions by suspected Lakurawa elements. In response, the police intensified intelligence-led patrols, reinforced community policing, and deepened joint operations with sister agencies.
Highlighting recent breakthroughs, the police boss said two suspected bandits were arrested on April 29 along the Bena–Mai Rai Rai Road, with officers recovering 36 rounds of live ammunition, a motorcycle, multiple mobile devices, and cash. The suspects reportedly confessed to terrorising communities in the area.
In a separate incident on May 1, police operatives foiled a motorcycle snatching attempt along the Amburusa–Sanyinna Road, arresting two suspects after one of them injured a victim with a sharp object. The victim is currently receiving treatment, while investigations are ongoing.
Another suspect was apprehended on May 2 following a violent attack on a motorcyclist along the Masalaci Zariya–Jega Road. The suspect confessed to participating in the robbery, while efforts are underway to apprehend his accomplices who remain at large.
Providing a broader operational update, Hadejia said the Command recovered ten AK-47 rifles, alongside other firearms including locally fabricated weapons and pistols. Over 1,200 rounds of AK-47 ammunition and additional cartridges were also seized within the period under review.
The police also recovered 22 stolen motorcycles—15 of which have already been returned to their rightful owners—as well as dozens of rustled cattle during coordinated operations with the Nigerian Army.
In addition, 40 stolen mobile phones and several SIM cards linked to criminal activities were recovered and are currently undergoing forensic analysis.
The Commissioner attributed the successes to the dedication of police personnel, improved inter-agency collaboration, and actionable intelligence from members of the public.
He, however, urged commercial motorcycle operators to exercise caution and avoid conveying suspicious individuals, warning that criminals often exploit such services to perpetrate attacks.
“We appeal to members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or requests to the nearest police station,” Hadejia said.
The Command reiterated its commitment to sustaining peace and ensuring the safety of residents across Kebbi State.
