The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has arrested two suspected bandits linked to killings and kidnappings across Katsina, Zamfara, Niger and Kwara states, including one seen in a viral video flaunting firearms and large sums of cash.
One of the suspects was identified as Abubakar Usman, popularly known as Siddi, who gained notoriety after appearing in a viral social media video displaying arms and money. The second suspect was identified as Shehu Mohammadu, also known as Gide.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, said the suspects were arrested on December 19 along the Komen–Masallaci axis in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID–IRT).
Hundeyin disclosed that operatives recovered one brand new Honda Ace 125 motorcycle, N500,000 cash, and an AK-47 rifle with a magazine loaded with 20 rounds of live ammunition from the suspects.
According to him, investigations revealed that the motorcycle was purchased with proceeds from ransom payments collected by the gang.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects are members of a notorious banditry and kidnapping gang terrorising communities across Zamfara, Katsina, Niger and Kwara States,” the statement reads.
“Further findings indicate that the gang also doubles as suppliers of arms and ammunition to criminal elements.
“Both suspects are currently cooperating with investigators to enable the arrest of other members of the syndicate and recovery of additional weapons.
“The Nigeria Police Force further recalls that one of the suspects, Abubakar Usman (alias Siddi), was recently identified as the individual seen in a viral video flaunting firearms and large sums of money on social media.
“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, commends the operatives involved for their professionalism and dedication, and reassures Nigerians of the Force’s unwavering commitment to dismantling criminal networks, combating banditry and kidnapping, and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.”
The police also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing security operations across the country.
