The Zamfara State Police Command has recorded a series of major breakthroughs in its fight against crime, including the arrest of a notorious bandit kingpin, recovery of multiple firearms, illicit drugs, and the dismantling of criminal networks across the state within just one week of intensified operations.
These achievements were disclosed during a press briefing by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, DSP Yazid Abubakar, at the Command Headquarters in Gusau, where he spoke on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Muhammad Bello, revealing renewed efforts to restore security across Zamfara.
At the center of the operations was the arrest of a suspected armed bandits’ syndicate member identified as Audu Maikano, described as a kingpin terrorizing communities in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area. Acting on credible intelligence, a joint team of police operatives and military personnel stormed Dan-Makulu village, leading to his arrest.
A cache of weapons, including a fabricated AK-47 rifle, dane guns, ammunition, and other dangerous items, were recovered from his possession.
The Police said the syndicate had been responsible for attacks along feeder roads between Kaura Namoda and Kasuwar Daji, causing fear among residents and travelers. Investigations are ongoing to track down other members of the gang and bring them to justice.
In a separate operation, two suspects, Abdullahi Idris and Ibrahim Harisu, were arrested in Tudun Faila, Gusau, with two bags of dry leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. The suspects reportedly confessed to involvement in drug trafficking, with further investigations underway to uncover their network.
The Command also reported the recovery of a large quantity of illicit substances during a raid on a drug hideout in the Gangaren Gulbi area. Items recovered included dozens of bottles of “Shutter,” rubber solutions, empty codeine bottles, and other materials linked to substance abuse, while efforts continue to apprehend those behind the operation.
Addressing public disturbances, police operatives arrested three members of the notorious “Yan Arlit” group known for reckless motorcycle riding and causing unrest. Several motorcycles, suspected drugs, and dangerous items were seized, while additional suspects fled and are currently being tracked by authorities.
In another incident, two individuals were arrested and charged to court for criminal conspiracy and assault after attacking three victims with cutlasses and sticks in Damba. The police said swift intervention helped restore calm and ensured victims received medical attention.
The Command also recorded success in tackling property crimes, including the arrest of two suspects linked to the theft of a tricycle, which was successfully recovered. Additionally, three suspects were apprehended for motorcycle theft and possession of stolen property, with 22 different motorcycle keys recovered during the operation.
The Zamfara State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the crackdown on criminal activities, while appreciating the support of the Inspector-General of Police, Olutunji Rilwan Disu, and the cooperation of residents. Authorities urged the public to continue providing credible intelligence as efforts intensify to ensure lasting peace and security across the state.
