The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested suspected ritualists and armed robbers in two separate incidents, reinforcing its commitment to tackling crime in the state.
According to a press statement by the spokesman for the command, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, the first incident occurred on February 4, 2025, at about 7:00 PM, when police operatives in Koko town apprehended a group of suspected ritualists.
Abubakar stated that Bello Abubakar conspired with Jamilu Bello, Safiyanu Bello, Usman Inda, and an accomplice currently at large, identified as Idrisu Yauri, to defraud Shamsu Adamu of N2,025,000 under the pretence of printing CFA currency worth thirty million.
“When Adamu was unable to provide additional funds as demanded, the suspects allegedly threatened him with dire consequences unless he brought a child for sacrifice. Under duress, he handed over his four-year-old daughter, Amina Shamsu,” the statement read.
Acting on credible intelligence, officers from the Koko Divisional Police Headquarters swiftly moved to the location and arrested the suspects during the act. Items recovered from the scene included a calabash, white and black clothes, three bottles of local perfume, and various charms.
In another incident on February 9, 2025, at about 8:00 PM, a commercial motorcyclist, Abubakar Muhammad, was transporting two passengers, Abdullahi Bello and Jamilu Adamu, to Unguwar Mairago village in Birnin Kebbi LGA when they were ambushed by four armed men.
The attackers, wielding sticks and knives, began assaulting the victims. However, their cries for help attracted the attention of police officers stationed at a nearby checkpoint, who responded swiftly and arrested two of the assailants, Bashar Abdullahi and Babangida Hassan. A knife was recovered at the scene, while the remaining two attackers managed to escape.
Commending the swift response of his officers, the Commissioner of Police, Bello Sani, praised their efforts and urged all personnel to remain vigilant and proactive in responding to distress calls.
He further directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department, to intensify efforts in tracking down the fleeing suspects and ensuring thorough investigations for diligent prosecution.
The CP reassured residents of the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order while urging the public to remain security-conscious and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.