The Zamfara State Police Command has announced a sweeping success in its renewed onslaught against criminal elements across the state, with a string of arrests involving bandit informants, arms traffickers, drug dealers, and phone snatchers.
During a press briefing at the Command Headquarters in Gusau, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Yazid Abubakar revealed that the operations, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police CP Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba, PSC+, had led to the recovery of deadly weapons, illicit drugs, and stolen property, while several suspects were charged to court.
One Salisu Lawali of Yandoto town, Tsafe LGA, was caught sending photos of fellow passengers and vehicle details during a journey from Gusau to Abuja. His actions sparked suspicion and a swift police response. Investigations led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and live ammunition from the home of Abdulmudallib Lawali, now at large. Salisu is already in court while efforts to apprehend Abdulmudallib continue.
A 27-year-old man, Tukur Auwal of Birnin Magaji LGA, was caught with two locally-made rifles concealed in rags along the Funtua–Gusau highway. Though he claimed his community sent him to procure weapons for defense, his community leader denied the claim. Tukur’s refusal to name his Abuja-based sponsors is hindering further probe.
Along Mayanchi–Anka Road, bandits opened fire on officers of the Special Intervention Squad led by ASP Bilyaminu Koko. The police overpowered them, forcing their retreat and abandoning an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, Indian hemp, and hard drugs. Surveillance continues in the area.
Police arrested 50-year-old Ibrahim Mohammed of Maru LGA, a known associate of the bandit kingpin “Babuga Abubakar” aka “Birki.” Ibrahim admitted to facilitating arms deals and revealed plans for further arms acquisition. He has been charged to court while the hunt for Birki and his gang intensifies.
On June 1, a Canter truck suspected to belong to bandit kingpin Dan Sadiya was intercepted. The driver, Dayyabu Musa, 20, of Wargam village, confessed to working with the kingpin and transporting farm produce to markets for sale. Investigations are ongoing.
Police arrested Mubarak Isyaku, 24, of Tudun Wada area, identified as the ringleader of a gang terrorizing Gusau residents. He confessed to multiple crimes including phone snatching, thuggery, and killings. His gang members are currently being tracked.
In Zurmi LGA, police intercepted a Toyota Corolla packed with dry leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. The driver fled upon sighting the police. Recovered items included mobile phones, ATM cards, and a driver’s license. A manhunt is ongoing.
The Command’s Special Intervention Squad also recovered a stolen white Toyota Hilux from Alhaji Kabiru Sadi of Gusau. He presented forged vehicle documents and claimed ownership belonged to a man he could not produce. The suspect is believed to be part of a stolen vehicle smuggling network.
DSP Yazid Abubakar reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to flushing out criminals and called on the public to support police efforts with timely and credible information.
“The Command remains resolute in dismantling bandit networks and safeguarding communities,” he declared.
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