The Kebbi police Command has arrested seven young men linked to the murder of three Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officers during ongoing operations against criminal networks in the state.
According to the command, three of the suspects, Muhammadu Bande, Aliyu Abubakar and Muhammadu Aliyu, were intercepted while travelling on a motorcycle.
Police operatives reportedly acted on intelligence indicating that the suspects were moving from a forest hideout area toward nearby border communities to procure supplies for bandits.
Furthermore, four additional young men identified as Haruna Abubakar, Abubakar Lawali, Anme Shehu and Yahaya Shehu were arrested in another axis of the state.
The arrests were made during coordinated security operations conducted within the Soda Forest axis and surrounding border communities in Bagudo Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Police said preliminary investigations suggest that some of the young men played roles in activities connected to bandit groups operating in the area including killing of FRSC officers.
A statement released by the command yesterday disclosed that the young men were apprehended during intelligence-led operations aimed at disrupting banditry and cutting off logistical support for criminal elements.
Additionally, the statement alleged that some of the young men arrested were involved in supplying food and other necessities to bandits hiding in forest camps.
“The suspects are currently in police custody, and investigations are continuing to establish the full scope of their activities, particularly their possible involvement in the attack that led to the killing of three FRSC personnel,” the police statement said.
Meanwhile, speaking on the development, the Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, Umar Hadejia, described the arrests as a significant breakthrough in the command’s campaign against banditry and violent crime.
“This operation reflects our determination to dismantle criminal networks and deny criminals the support structures that enable their activities.
“We will continue to pursue all those involved in acts that threaten public safety,” he said.
Hadejia commended the officers involved in the operations for their professionalism and dedication.
Also, he acknowledged residents whose information assisted security agencies in tracking down the suspects.
He assured residents that intelligence-driven operations would continue across affected communities to restore peace and strengthen security.