The Sokoto State command of the Nigeria Police Force has arrested a suspected notorious bandit.
Naijaonpoint learnt that the arrest was carried out on Saturday, July 13, 2025, by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit during an intelligence-led operation following a credible tip-off.
The suspect, Buba Magaji, a resident of Julirkol village in Silami Local Government Area, was apprehended for his alleged involvement with the Lakurawa bandit syndicate, a group said to be behind several criminal attacks across parts of the state.
Police operatives recovered a cache of arms, including an AK-49 rifle, in what authorities described as a major breakthrough in the fight against banditry in the state.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufai, confirmed the arrest and weapons recovery.
“Magaji is believed to be a key associate of the gang, which has been responsible for a spate of criminal attacks across several local government areas, including Silami, Wamakko, Binji, and Yabo,” DSP Rufai stated.
Following his arrest, Magaji reportedly confessed to his role in the gang’s operations and led police officers to a remote bush path along the Silami axis, where arms were buried.
A follow-up operation on Tuesday, July 16, led to the recovery of: One AK-49 rifle, a magazine, and twenty-two rounds of live ammunition.
Reacting, the Commissioner of Police for Sokoto State Command, Ahmed Musa, commended the swift efforts of the officers involved and praised the residents for their cooperation.
“This arrest and weapons recovery mark a significant step in our efforts to dismantle criminal networks terrorising our communities,” the CP said.
“We remain committed to rooting out all forms of criminality and restoring peace and safety to Sokoto State.”
He assured that investigations are ongoing to track down other members of the Lakurawa syndicate still at large.
The command called on citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, stressing that actionable intelligence from locals continues to play a vital role in the fight against insecurity.
“We urge the good people of Sokoto to continue assisting law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information,” DSP Rufai added.