The Kaduna State Police Command has announced the arrest of two suspected gunrunners and the recovery of firearms and stolen motorcycles in separate intelligence-led operations across the state.
Spokesperson for the Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday in Kaduna.
He stated that the suspects were apprehended by police operatives from the Ikara Division following a raid in Kurmin Kogi village on August 5 at about 2:00 p.m.
“Operatives from the Ikara Division raided Kurmin Kogi village and arrested two suspects, Isah Bello and Sa’idu Haruna, both residents of Damdami village, Richifa Ward, Soba LGA,” the statement read.
According to Hassan, the operation was based on credible intelligence about the activities of the suspects, who later led officers to a bushy hideout where four locally made guns were recovered.
“During the course of the operation, one of the suspects, Isah Bello, attempted to evade arrest and, in the process, assaulted an Inspector of Police, causing injury to the officer’s face. The injured officer is currently receiving medical attention and is responding to treatment,” he added.
In a separate incident on August 7, operatives from the Dan Magaji Division, acting on another intelligence report, apprehended a suspected motorcycle thief identified as Shamsudeen Haruna from Galadimawa in Giwa Local Government Area.
“The suspect was arrested while attempting to dispose of the stolen motorcycles, and upon investigation, four motorcycles were recovered from him,” Hassan revealed.
He further explained that Haruna is believed to be part of a notorious gang responsible for a series of motorcycle thefts in Zaria, Giwa, and surrounding areas.
“The suspect belonged to the notorious syndicate that had been terrorizing Zaria, Giwa and its environs, efforts is been intensified to get the other fleeing members arrested,” he said.
The investigation also led to the arrest of a suspected receiver of the stolen motorcycles, who is currently cooperating with police to aid further recovery and apprehension efforts.
Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Rabiu, commended the officers for their courage and dedication, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and eradicating crime in the state.
He warned market leaders to monitor their members closely, stressing that anyone caught dealing in stolen property would face legal consequences.
“The CP also warned the leadership of market associations to be vigilant about the activities of their members, as anyone caught receiving stolen motorcycles will face the full wrath of the law,” Hassan added.
The Commissioner also issued a stern warning to criminal elements, advising them to steer clear of the state or risk being apprehended.
He emphasized that the police would continue proactive operations in collaboration with the public and the military to maintain security across Kaduna.
