The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested two men suspected of involvement in the abduction of three newly graduated military recruits in neighbouring Zamfara State. The arrests were announced on Tuesday by the command's spokesperson, Bashir Usman, in a statement that also revealed the suspects were taken into custody at approximately 6:15 a.m. on Saturday.
Suspects Identified and Preliminary Findings
The police identified the suspects as Mallan Abubakar, a resident of Gargam Village in Bagega, Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State, and Usman Muhammadu, from Ajera in Ilorin, Kwara State. According to the statement, one of the suspects made "useful disclosures" concerning the abduction during preliminary questioning.
"During preliminary investigation, one of the suspects made useful disclosures regarding the abduction of the three military recruits in July 2026 along the Kwanan Mayanchi–Gurusu axis of Zamfara State," the police statement said. This revelation provides a crucial lead for investigators as they work to uncover the full details of the incident.
Victims and Their Rescue
The recruits, who are from Kebbi State, were abducted in July along the Kwanan Mayanchi–Gurusu section of the Anka–Bukuyum road in Zamfara. The command identified one of the victims as Kabiru Hassan, a resident of Ribah in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The other two recruits were from Zuru Local Government Area.
According to the police, the three victims have regained their freedom. However, the command did not disclose the exact date of their abduction, how long they were held, or the circumstances under which they regained their freedom. It also did not state whether a ransom was demanded or paid, or whether the suspects were arrested before or after the victims' release.
Investigation and Next Steps
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation. The police are also making efforts to identify other individuals who may have been involved in the abduction. The Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, Umar Hadejia, commended the officers involved in the operation and reiterated the command's commitment to identifying and prosecuting everyone connected with the crime.
This development comes amid ongoing security challenges in the region, where kidnappings and banditry have been persistent issues. The arrest of these suspects marks a significant step in addressing such crimes and bringing perpetrators to justice.
