The Police have arrested arrested eight robbers linked to a series of theft and shop-breaking incidents within Yobe state while recovering several stolen items during the operation.
The robbers were identified as Abdullahi Musa, 18; Khalifa Mohammed, 20; Alhassan Ali, 21; Ibrahim Shehu, 21; Ali Mohammed, 22; Abba Shetima, 21; Boniface Cosmos, 25; and Sakinat Usman, 46.
Recovered exhibits from the robbers included two five-litre gallons of Kings vegetable oil, 40 packs of Indomie noodles, 132 sachets of Peak powdered milk and three Android mobile phones.
The suspects were apprehended during a coordinated operation that followed intelligence reports linking them to a string of burglary, shoplifting and theft incidents.
They were arrested in connection with criminal activities reported in the Abbari, Nasarawa and Gwange areas of Damaturu metropolis.
Police investigators said the group allegedly specialised in targeting shops and stealing goods, causing concern among traders and residents.
The Yobe State Police Command disclosed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday by its spokesperson, SP Dungus Abdulkarim.
According to the police, preliminary findings connected the eight suspects to several criminal activities, while confessing to their involvement, and they are assisting investigators with further inquiries.
Abdulkarim said efforts are continuing to trace additional stolen property and apprehend other members of the syndicate who remain at large.
Moreover, the command said the arrests were made after security personnel acted on credible intelligence regarding the activities of the suspects.
“Following recent reports of shop breaking, theft and other criminal activities, the Command carried out a coordinated operation that led to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of stolen items,” the police said.
Abdulkarim said operatives of ‘A’ Division in Damaturu, working alongside local vigilante members, carried out the operation on Monday after receiving intelligence on criminal activities.
“We remain committed to protecting lives and property. Investigations are ongoing, and efforts are being intensified to recover more stolen items and arrest fleeing accomplices for prosecution,” the statement added.
The command further urged residents and business owners to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies.