Musa Na-Allah, Sokoto
Sokoto State Police Command has dismantled a notorious bandit syndicate, arresting four suspected cattle rustlers and a key drug supplier believed to be terrorizing residents of Wamakko and Kware Local Government Areas.
The operation followed credible intelligence received on 4 October 2025, indicating that a gang long linked to banditry had resurfaced in Sabon Birni Village, Kware LGA, after months of hiding in nearby forests.
Acting on the tip-off, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Unit carried out a coordinated raid on the suspects’ hideout, leading to the arrest of four identified members, Bubale Muh’d, Bammo Tanimu, Maluma Arzika, and Bilal Umar, alleged to be the group’s main drug supplier.
Police said Umar was found in possession of illicit drugs, reportedly used to embolden the gang before launching attacks.
Investigators also recovered incriminating materials from the suspects’ mobile phones, including videos showing them brandishing rifles in what appeared to be their bush camp.
Authorities disclosed that the group had long been on the Command’s watchlist for a series of violent attacks, cattle rustling, and kidnappings in surrounding communities.
Their arrest, police said, marks a breakthrough in efforts to dismantle organized criminal networks in the area.
The state Commissioner of Police commended the operatives for their professionalism and courage, describing the operation as a decisive step toward restoring peace.
“This successful operation underscores our determination to rid Sokoto State of banditry and lawlessness.
“By cutting off their drug supply and apprehending key figures, we have dealt a serious blow to their operations,” the Commissioner said.
Residents of the affected communities expressed both relief and shock, identifying the suspects as former locals whose sudden wealth and lavish lifestyles had long aroused suspicion.
Their activities were reportedly brought to the attention of security agencies through local intelligence.
Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate still believed to be operating within and beyond Kware.
The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Ahmad Rufai, urged citizens to remain vigilant and continue sharing information that could aid security operations.
“When you see something, say something, and the Police will do something,” Rufai stated.
The latest success, the Command noted, reflects its renewed commitment to intelligence-led policing, community collaboration, and reclaiming every part of Sokoto State from the grip of criminal networks undermining peace and development.
