The Nigeria Police Force has arrested two suspected kidnapping kingpins believed to be behind a string of violent crimes across parts of northern Nigeria, following a covert operation in Kwara State
The suspects, Abubakar Usman, also known as Siddi (26), and Shehu Mohammadu, alias Gide (30), were apprehended by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID–IRT) in collaboration with the Kwara State Police Command.
Confirming the development on Friday, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the suspects were intercepted along the Komen–Masallaci axis in Kaiama Local Government Area of the state.
“The suspects were arrested during a high-risk intelligence-led operation carried out by the FID–IRT with support from the Kwara State Command,” Hundeyin said.
According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that the duo are members of a notorious banditry and kidnapping syndicate operating across Zamfara, Katsina, Niger and Kwara states.
During the operation, officers recovered an AK-47 rifle loaded with 20 rounds of live ammunition, as well as ₦500,000 cash suspected to be proceeds from ransom payments. A brand new Honda Ace 125 motorcycle, valued at about ₦1.85 million, was also seized.
“Investigations showed that the motorcycle was purchased with ransom proceeds, while further findings indicate that the gang also supplies arms and ammunition to other criminal elements,” Hundeyin added.
One of the suspects, Usman (Siddi), had earlier drawn public attention after appearing in a viral social media video where he was seen flaunting firearms and large sums of cash. Police sources said he had been on the security radar for some time before his arrest.
The police spokesperson noted that both suspects are currently cooperating with investigators to help track down other members of the syndicate and recover more illegal weapons.
Reacting to the arrest, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the operatives for what he described as their professionalism and commitment to tackling insecurity.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety and security of citizens across the country,” the IG said.
The police high command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to combat crime nationwide.
