The Bauchi State Police Command has apprehended two individuals suspected of being informants for kidnappers, in connection with a recent attack in the Alkaleri Local Government Area of the state. The suspects, identified as 18-year-old Idi Riga and 22-year-old Murtala Sani, were taken into custody on August 2, 2026, following an assault by unknown gunmen on a residence in Gwanar Dutse Village, Gwana District.
Details of the Arrest
The command's spokesperson, SP Nafiu Habib, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, August 3, 2026. According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), the arrests were made after a swift investigation into the attack, which occurred on July 31, 2026, at approximately 0500 hours.
“In its ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes within the state, Bauchi State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a significant breakthrough. Consequently, on 31st July, 2026 at about 0500hrs, unknown armed men attacked the residence of a 46-years-old man, of Gwanar Dutse Village, Gwana District, Alkaleri LGA,” the statement read.
Victim's Condition and Response
During the incident, the victim sustained gunshot injuries to his right thigh while attempting to escape. He was promptly evacuated to General Hospital, Kashere, where he is currently receiving treatment and responding positively.
The police, acting on intelligence-led operations, deployed personnel attached to the Gobirawo Out-Station, led by the officer-in-charge, to track down the culprits. This effort resulted in the apprehension of the two suspects on August 2, 2026, at about 1528 hours.
Suspects' Confession and Investigation
The suspects, Idi Riga, a male aged 18, from Gwanar Dutse Village, and Murtala Sani, a male aged 22, from Rifta Unguwan Jauro Musa, Gobirawo Ward, were taken into custody. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects voluntarily confessed to having acted as informants to the perpetrators of the attack.
“In view of the above, the suspects are in custody and the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) Bauchi for discreet and thorough investigation with a view to prosecution,” the statement added.
Police Commissioner's Assurance
The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, mni, psc(+), has reassured residents of Bauchi State of the Command’s resolve to rid the state of criminal elements. “Furthermore, he urges members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to the Police,” the PPRO concluded.
This arrest underscores the police's commitment to tackling kidnapping and violent crimes in the region, with the public urged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
