The Katsina State Police Command has announced the arrest of a 45-year-old man, Surajo Isyaku, for his alleged involvement in multiple cases of kidnapping, cattle rustling, and serving as an informant to armed bandits.
A statement issued by the command's spokesperson, DSP Abubakar Aliyu, revealed that the suspect was apprehended on May 15. He is believed to be among the criminals terrorizing Matazu Local Government Area and its surrounding communities.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to committing numerous atrocities. He claimed that he was introduced to a life of crime by another suspect, identified as Babaye, who is currently at large.
The statement, issued under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Ali Umar Fage, detailed the circumstances of the arrest. On May 15, 2026, at approximately 4:00 pm, detectives acting on credible intelligence tracked and arrested the suspect.
During questioning, Isyaku confessed to the crimes and stated that he was introduced to a notorious suspected bandit kingpin known as Bello by Babaye in 2024. Bello is known to terrorize parts of the state and its environs.
Confessions and Crimes
The suspect further confessed to participating in two kidnapping operations at Sayaya Village in Matazu LGA. During these operations, a total sum of 7 million naira was collected as ransom from victims. Isyaku admitted to receiving 900,000 naira as his share of the proceeds.
Regarding cattle rustling, the suspect confessed to inviting the bandit kingpin Bello and his gang to Dukawa Village on two occasions. During these incidents, 14 cows were rustled, and Isyaku received 40,000 naira as his share.
Isyaku also admitted to participating in an attack on April 5, 2026, in Sayaya Village, Matazu LGA. During the attack, houses were burned, and a policeman attached to the Matazu Division lost his life.
Ongoing Investigations
The police statement confirmed that efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing accomplices, including Babaye and the bandit kingpin Bello, as well as members of his gang.
The suspect is expected to be charged in court. The command called on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to assist ongoing operations aimed at combating crime in the region.
