The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) says it has arrested two suspected kidnapping kingpins linked to crimes across four northern states.
A statement by Benjamin Hundeyin, force public relations officer, said the suspects were apprehended during a covert intelligence-led operation carried out in Kwara state.
Hundeyin said the operation was executed by operatives of the force intelligence department–intelligence response team in collaboration with the Kwara state command.
He identified the suspects as Abubakar Usman, also known as Siddi, aged 26, and Shehu Mohammadu, also known as Gide, aged 30.
“The suspects were intercepted along the Komen–Masallaci axis in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State,”Hundeyin said.
“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 said operatives recovered items believed to be linked to criminal activities during the arrest.
Hundeyin said the exhibits included “an AK-47 rifle loaded with 20 rounds of live ammunition and ₦500,000 in cash, which the authorities identified as unspent ransom money.”
He said a brand new Honda Ace 125 motorcycle valued at N1,850,000 was also seized from the suspects.
“Investigations revealed the motorcycle was purchased with proceeds of ransom payments,” he said.
“Further findings indicate that the gang also doubles as suppliers of arms and ammunition to criminal elements.”
Hundeyin said Usman had been under police watch prior to his arrest, adding that the suspect was recently identified in a viral social media video where he was seen displaying firearms and large sums of money.
The police spokesperson added that the suspects are currently “cooperating with investigators to enable the arrest of other members of the syndicate and recovery of additional weapons.”
Reacting to the development, Kayode Egbetokun, inspector-general of police (IGP), commended the operatives involved in the operation.
Egbetokun praised them for their “professionalism and dedication” during the mission.
“The Force remains unwavering in its commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety of all citizens,” he said.
The police leadership urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue supplying credible information to support ongoing security operations nationwide.