The Nigeria Police Force has arrested five suspected members of a robbery and abduction syndicate operating “one-chance” attacks along major highways in Kebbi State, in a major crackdown aimed at restoring security in the region. The suspects—Abubakar Muhammad of Bancho village in Tambuwal, Shehu Ango, Shamsu Daudu, Shuaibu Umar, and Aisha Usmanu—were apprehended during coordinated operations across Birnin Kebbi, Kalgo, Jega, Maiyama, and Aliero Local Government Areas. The arrests were confirmed in a statement released on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman.
The syndicate allegedly posed as commercial vehicle operators to deceive unsuspecting passengers, luring them into their vehicles before robbing them at knifepoint and abandoning them in remote, isolated bushes. Police investigations have linked the group to a series of armed robberies and abductions along key highways in the state, with victims often subjected to violence and financial exploitation. In one case, the gang reportedly withdrew over N1 million from a victim’s bank account and demanded ransom from their relatives before releasing them.
On April 30, 2026, the group allegedly attacked a female passenger named Shamsiyya Samaila along the Tashar Hauwa section of the Jega–Kalgo Road. She was robbed of an Infinix Android phone, a power bank, a charger, and an Opay ATM card, from which N9,000 was later withdrawn. These incidents highlight the growing threat posed by criminal syndicates exploiting transportation networks to commit violent crimes.
Authorities have confirmed that the syndicate’s modus operandi involves targeting vulnerable travelers, often using unregistered or suspicious vehicles to carry out their attacks. The Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State has issued a public warning, urging commuters to avoid boarding unregistered or unfamiliar vehicles and to use designated motor parks for safety. He also emphasized that the police command remains committed to intensifying security operations to eliminate criminal elements from the state.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate, as investigations continue to uncover additional crimes linked to the group. The police have called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies promptly. This operation reflects a broader national effort to combat highway banditry and restore confidence in road travel across Nigeria.
The arrests mark a significant step in curbing violent crime in Kebbi State, and authorities remain determined to ensure that such criminal networks are dismantled. As security operations continue, residents are encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement to prevent future attacks and protect lives and property.
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