In a major security operation across Kaduna State, the Police Command has arrested 182 individuals suspected of various crimes, including armed robbery, drug trafficking, and illegal possession of weapons.
Spokesperson of the Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued in Kaduna on Saturday, noting that the coordinated raid was carried out under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad.
The operation, which targeted criminal hideouts in areas such as Rigasa, Kawo, Tudun Wada, and Sabon Tasha, also led to the recovery of dangerous items and a stolen vehicle.
“This operation is part of a renewed effort to rid Kaduna of criminal elements and ensure public safety,” Hassan said. “We have intensified surveillance and cracked down on identified black spots in response to rising concerns over security.”
Among the recovered items were 30 bags and approximately 1,600 wraps of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, as well as an AK-47 rifle magazine loaded with 31 rounds of live ammunition. A stolen Honda Accord was also recovered in Zaria during one of the operations.
In a notable case, two suspects — Ziya Abdullah, 35, and his accomplice Bashir Usman, alias “Yellow” — were arrested after allegedly robbing a residence in Gona. According to police, the duo used knives and cutlasses during the attack and made away with a vehicle.
“Ziya Abdullah was arrested while attempting to sell the stolen car. His arrest led to the capture of his partner. Both have confessed to the crime,” the police spokesperson stated.
In another development, residents of Rafin Guza reportedly discovered a bag filled with live ammunition, believed to have been abandoned by fleeing criminals during a police pursuit. Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the suspects connected to that incident.
Hassan noted that some of those arrested have already been charged to court, while others remain under investigation. “Those found culpable after investigations will be prosecuted in accordance with the law,” he added.
The Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents. “We are determined to bring criminals to justice and restore confidence in law enforcement. I urge members of the public to continue supporting us with credible and timely information,” he said.
The police also called on communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, assuring that such cooperation is vital to maintaining peace and order in the state.