The Niger State Police Command has apprehended a suspect linked to the killing of a vigilante member who had reportedly been on the run since 2024.
The suspect, identified as Sudais Zakari of Angwan-Roka, Minna, was arrested alongside Danjuma Idris of Maitumbi over alleged robbery-related offences.
Police said Zakari fled the area after the death of Ibrahim Yahaya, also known as Danladi Baushe, a vigilante operative in Maitumbi, in April 2024. He is also alleged to have taken part in several armed robbery attacks in the area in 2025.
The command’s spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Wednesday, adding that the suspects would be charged to court after investigations.
He said, “On February 7, 2026, at about 10:30 p.m., police operatives attached to Maitumbi Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and supported by vigilante members, stormed suspected criminal hideouts around the Maitumbi area. During the operation, Sudais Zakari of Angwan-Roka and Danjuma Idris of Maitumbi were arrested.”
Abiodun said preliminary findings connected Zakari to the alleged killing of the vigilante member in April 2024, as well as multiple armed robbery incidents in Maitumbi during 2025.
He also stated that Idris was apprehended with items believed to be burglary tools, including a bolt cutter, machete, screwdriver, pliers, a bunch of keys, a face cap, and a bag suspected to be stolen.
In a separate operation, Abiodun revealed that on February 8, 2026, at about 3:00 a.m., operatives of the Operation Flush patrol team intercepted and arrested one Aji Gana near the Maitumbi Roundabout.
Items recovered from him included a cutlass, a pitcher, a bunch of keys, pliers, a screwdriver, and two mobile phones.
“All suspects are currently under investigation and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded,” Abiodun added.
