Security operatives have apprehended 10 bandits in Kaduna State and recovered firearms from the suspects, according to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, on Friday.
Arrest and Recovery
The case of criminal conspiracy and illegal dealings in firearms and ammunition was transferred from Ikara Police Division to the state headquarters on May 1, 2026. Following further investigation, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit arrested Haruna Dauda, Meshack John Iliya Dangi, Joshua Maigida, and Audu Musa. During the operation, detectives recovered four fabricated AK-47 rifles and two fabricated pistols.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects were involved in the illegal sale of arms and ammunition to bandits operating in Ikara and its environs. They confessed to supplying weapons to previously arrested suspects, identified as Timothy Yohana Ado Mato and Hamisu Yalwa, both from the Ikara community.
Ongoing Investigation
Hassan stated that the investigation is ongoing to uncover the full extent of the syndicate, identify other accomplices, and ensure all involved are brought to justice.
On May 5, 2026, at about 8:00 p.m., credible intelligence indicated that Yunusa Yahaya, aged 40, and Mustapha Yahaya, aged 30, both from Kuraye Village in Kubau Local Government Area, were in possession of a locally fabricated AK-47 rifle and 7.5mm AK-47 ammunition. Security operatives swiftly tracked and arrested the suspects, recovering the arms.
On the same date, another intelligence tip-off led detectives to raid a residence belonging to Mathew Tanko of Gidan Jina, Furana Village, Ikara LGA, who is currently at large. During the search, another locally fabricated AK-47 rifle was recovered. Investigation is ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect.
Commissioner's Warning
The Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, warned individuals involved in the illegal possession, fabrication, and supply of firearms to criminal elements to immediately desist from such acts. He stated that the command remains resolute in identifying, tracking, and prosecuting all those connected to criminal networks across the state.
Hassan added that the CP assured residents that the command, in collaboration with other security agencies, will continue to intensify intelligence-led operations to deny criminals freedom of action and ensure the safety and security of all law-abiding citizens.
Rescue Operation in Kogi
Meanwhile, troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation MESA rescued a kidnap victim abandoned by suspected terrorists along the Obajana–Jakura–Tajimi axis in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State. Security consultant and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, quoting security sources on Friday, said the rescue operation occurred at about 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13, by troops of 12 Brigade during a fighting patrol along the old Obajana–Jakura–Tajimi road.
Makama added that the troops discovered the victim after suspected kidnappers abandoned him while fleeing from advancing security personnel. The rescued victim was subsequently reunited with his family. Security patrols and clearance operations have continued along the route and adjoining communities as part of ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other criminal activities in the area.
