Katsina armed robbery syndicate dismantled by police as 11 suspects are arrested for targeting motorists on major highways

Katsina armed robbery syndicate operating along key highway routes in the state has been dismantled, following the arrest of 11 suspects by the Katsina State Police Command.

Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo nears historic 1000-goal milestone

The suspects, described as a notorious gang of highway robbers, had allegedly been terrorising travellers on the Sha’iskawa–Charanchi and Katsina–Kankia–Kano roads, notorious for recent spikes in violent robberies.

Parading the suspects on Wednesday, the command’s spokesperson, ASP Abubakar Aliyu, said the operation was made possible by credible intelligence and swift action by police operatives.

“The breakthrough came on Sunday around 10am when one suspect was intercepted while attempting to dispose of proceeds from a recent robbery,” Aliyu said.

He explained that the arrest of the initial suspect led officers to track down the remaining members of the gang. All suspects are aged between 21 and 35.

Those arrested include Dikko Maaru, Dardau Kabir, Muntari Musa, Labaran Amadu, Usman Maaru, Lawal Zubairu, Nasiru Sanusi, Adamu Kabir, Abdullahi Zubairu, Muhammad Usman, and Sale Shehu.

Items recovered from the gang include 80 wristwatches, nine mobile phones, and a knife, believed to have been used in the course of their criminal activities.

The Commissioner of Police, Bello Shehu, commended the officers involved and reiterated the command’s commitment to keeping the highways safe for commuters.

He also called on the public to continue supporting law enforcement through timely and accurate information.

“This operation reflects the command’s zero tolerance for criminality and our readiness to protect the lives and property of residents,” the PPRO added.