The Kebbi State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on criminal activities, arresting two suspected bandits and 47 other criminal suspects in separate operations across the state, while recovering firearms, stolen property, and rustled cattle. The operations, conducted in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, took place between April 29 and May 2, 2026, and resulted in the seizure of 10 AK-47 rifles, three fabricated Beretta pistols, and approximately 33 cattle believed to be stolen by suspected Lakurawa terrorists. Commissioner of Police Umar M. Hadejia disclosed these developments during a press briefing at the Command headquarters in Birnin Kebbi on Monday.
On April 29, 2026, police mobile officers patrolling the Bena–Mai Rai Rai road apprehended two suspected bandits: Aliyu Hussaini, 23, from Minna in Niger State, and Sani Abubakar, 28, from Zamfara State. Items recovered from them included 36 rounds of live ammunition, a magazine, a Bajaj motorcycle, N264,000 in cash, mobile phones, SIM cards, and memory cards. Both suspects confessed to terrorising villages along the route and are currently in custody for further investigation.
In another operation on May 1, a patrol team intercepted two suspects attempting to rob a motorcycle along the Ambursa–Sanyinna road. The incident left a victim injured, but the motorcycle was recovered. On May 2, police arrested a suspect linked to a gang that attacked a traveller and stole a motorcycle along the Masalaci Zarya–Jega road. The commissioner confirmed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of these criminal gangs.
The police command’s operations also led to the recovery of 33 rustled cattle, which are believed to be connected to the Lakurawa terrorist group. These cattle were seized during joint operations with the Nigerian Army, highlighting the coordinated approach to tackling insecurity in the region. The recovered firearms and ammunition underscore the growing threat of armed criminality in Kebbi State and the need for sustained security measures.
Commissioner Hadejia reiterated the Kebbi State Police Command’s unwavering commitment to combating banditry, armed robbery, and other violent crimes. He emphasized that the command will continue to conduct surveillance and patrol operations to ensure public safety and restore peace in affected communities. The recent arrests and recoveries are seen as significant steps toward curbing insecurity in the state.
As security agencies remain vigilant, residents are urged to report suspicious activities and cooperate with law enforcement. The ongoing operations signal a strong response to criminal elements, and authorities are hopeful that continued efforts will lead to long-term stability in Kebbi State.
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