Police arrest suspected bandit financiers, bike thieves in Sokoto

FILE: A Nigerian policeman

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The Sokoto State Police Command has arrested suspected bandit financiers and motorcycle thieves in two coordinated operations carried out on Wednesday across Sokoto and neighbouring Zamfara State.

According to a statement released on Friday by the command’s spokesman, DSP Ahmed Rufai, three men were apprehended in Tangaza Local Government Area for allegedly funding a notorious bandit group by helping them sell rustled cattle.

Rufai said, “One of the arrested suspects, Ruwa Ginyo, identified as the Fulani head of Gidan-Madi, was apprehended alongside two accomplices. Police recovered four rustled cows during the operation.”

The Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Musa, described the suspects as part of the “financial engine room” that keeps bandits active.

“Cutting off their funding stream is a major victory,” he said.

Hours later, the Command’s Strike Force raided Talata Mafara in Zamfara State, arresting several individuals linked to a motorcycle theft and resale syndicate.

Two motorcycles reported stolen in Sokoto were recovered during the operation.

Musa said the arrests demonstrate the Command’s expanding operational reach.

“Our message is clear.

“If you commit a crime in Sokoto, we will find you — even if you run to another state. The era of criminals feeling safe across borders is over,” he added.

He urged residents, particularly livestock and motorcycle dealers, to verify ownership documents before transactions and to report suspicious activities promptly.

“Public cooperation remains our strongest asset. Every credible tip brings us closer to making our communities safer,” the Commissioner said.

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