Kebbi police arrest officer in ₦109m gold theft scandal

Kebbi Police arrest six, including a correctional officer, over ₦109.5m gold theft. Case sparks concerns over corruption within security institutions

Kebbi Gold Theft has shaken public trust in Nigeria’s security institutions as detectives from the Kebbi State Police Command arrested six suspects linked to the theft of gold ornaments worth over ₦109.5 million in Ka’oje town, Bagudo LGA.

Also read: Kebbi police rescue 36 kidnap victims after gunfight with bandits

Among those arrested is Ibrahim Abubakar, a serving officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service, whose alleged involvement has sparked fresh outrage and calls for institutional reform.

The theft, which occurred between 2024 and 2025, involved the burglary of Hajiya Rabi’s residence, where 782.7 grams of gold jewellery—including five necklaces, nine bangles, and four rings—were stolen.

The valuables belonged to her daughter, Hajiya Amina Hassan Bello, and her siblings.

Police spokesperson Nafiu Abubakar revealed in a statement on Wednesday that Abubakar confessed to the crime. He reportedly sold the stolen ornaments to a ring of buyers and facilitators:

• Sa’adu Ibrahim Darhami and Hamza Ahmad from Sokoto
• Nasiru Sani of Birnin Kebbi
• Tasi’u Umar of Zauro town, Birnin Kebbi LGA
• Ibrahim Usman Oroji, who received ₦2.5 million for his role
• Mustapha Hassan, who helped launder the proceeds via land purchases

Recovered exhibits include:

•  Two gold bangles
• A Haojue motorcycle
•  An iPhone 16
•  A Samsung Flip phone

Commissioner of Police Bello M. Sani praised the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for their swift and intelligence-led action.

“This is a strong message that crime—no matter who is involved—will not go unpunished,” said Sani.

The Kebbi gold theft has fueled wider concern about criminal infiltration in security agencies, with analysts warning of the implications for public safety.

Civil society groups are now urging better oversight and inter-agency monitoring.

Observers note that gold ornaments serve not only as financial assets in northern Nigeria but also as family heirlooms—making their theft a deeply emotional and cultural violation.

This case also underscores the growing sophistication of jewellery theft rings, with stolen items quickly exchanged and laundered through property deals and digital devices.

Also read: Kebbi police rescue 36 kidnap victims after gunfight with bandits

With several suspects still at large, the Kebbi Police Command says efforts are ongoing to recover all stolen property and dismantle the wider network.

David Okere