EXCLUSIVE: Intelligence Report Exposes Kidnapping, Bandit Syndicates Across Northern Nigeria

The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) findings, based on a September 2020 intelligence report, span the North-West and North-East regions and provide detailed insights into the identities, movements, and alleged activities of hundreds of suspects.

A comprehensive investigation into the activities of kidnappers and bandits across northern Nigeria reveals a complex web of criminal operations involving suspected kingpins, collaborators, and potential connections with politically exposed persons.

The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) findings, based on a September 2020 intelligence report, span the North-West and North-East regions and provide detailed insights into the identities, movements, and alleged activities of hundreds of suspects.

North-West Axis: Katsina, Zamfara, and Kaduna Under Siege

The report highlights the North-West as a hotspot for kidnapping and banditry, with Katsina, Zamfara, and Kaduna states heavily affected.

Several high-profile suspects were identified in the report.

According to the report, Samaila Ibrahim (aka Kachalla, Dan Antuna), 24, operating out of Kaduna and Katsina, was reportedly involved in the abduction of Abdullahi Carpenter along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway.

He is suspected of sourcing weapons or drugs through an associate, “Iliya Kaya.”

Aliyu Abubakar Umar, aka Lalbi 1 and Laibi 2, 25, is linked to multiple kidnappers and is suspected to have connections with law enforcement collaborators and local political figures.

Aish Buhari, 35, allegedly communicates internationally with France and Ghana and has strong ties to the Lalbi network.

Nasiru Mani, aka Sada Lawal, 26, a suspected kidnapper in Katsina, reportedly coordinates with Ibrahim Umaru (Ardo Alti) and receives communications from the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN) at odd hours, suggesting possible logistical support for banditry operations.

Umar Sani (Uzairu), 83, maintains communications with suspected kidnappers at flashpoints across the North-West.

The report also identifies several suspected informants and logistics operators, including Ashiru Salisu, Shaaibu Sulaiman, and Sani Farouk, who allegedly provide critical support for abductions, ransom collection, and coordination across Katsina and Zamfara.