The Nigeria Police Force has arrested two suspected kidnapping kingpins, including a bandit who was recently seen displaying firearms and cash in a viral video, in a coordinated operation in Kwara State.
The suspects, identified as Abubakar Usman, also known as Siddi, aged 26, and Shehu Mohammadu, also called Gide, aged 30, were arrested by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department – Intelligence Response Team, working with the Kwara State Police Command.
Confirming the development in a statement on Friday, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the suspects were intercepted along the Komen–Masallaci axis of Kaiama Local Government Area.
“The suspects were intercepted along the Komen–Masallaci axis in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State,” Hundeyin said.
He explained that preliminary investigations showed that the duo belonged to a notorious kidnapping and banditry gang operating across Zamfara, Katsina, Niger and Kwara states.
“Preliminary investigation revealed they are members of a notorious banditry and kidnapping gang terrorising communities across Zamfara, Katsina, Niger, and Kwara states,” the police spokesman added.
During the operation, the police recovered an AK-47 rifle loaded with 20 rounds of live ammunition, as well as the sum of ₦500,000, which investigators said was part of ransom money yet to be spent.
Also recovered was a brand new Honda Ace 125 motorcycle, valued at about ₦1.85 million.
“Investigations revealed the motorcycle was purchased with proceeds of ransom payments,” Hundeyin said.
He further disclosed that the suspects were not only involved in kidnappings but also supplied weapons to other criminal groups.
“Further findings indicate that the gang also doubles as suppliers of arms and ammunition to criminal elements,” he stated.
Usman, popularly known as Siddi, had earlier drawn public attention after a video surfaced online showing him openly flaunting firearms and large sums of cash.
Hundeyin said both suspects are now assisting the police with useful information.
“The suspects are currently cooperating with investigators to enable the arrest of other members of the syndicate and the recovery of additional weapons,” he said.
Reacting to the arrest, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the officers involved for what he described as their dedication and professionalism.
“The Force remains unwavering in its commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety of all citizens,” Egbetokun said.
The police also appealed to members of the public to continue to support security agencies with credible and timely information to help curb crime across the country.
