Police arrest 24 suspected criminals in Niger

Niger State Police Command has arrested 24 suspected criminals in a coordinated sting operation targeting thuggery and armed robbery.

The operation was led by the Anti-Thuggery Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna, in collaboration with operatives from Maitumbi and Central Police Stations, as well as local vigilante groups.

The early-morning raid swept through notorious areas including Angwan Roka, Kwari, Berger Junction, Flamingo, and Tudun under Maitumbi.

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Among those apprehended were Abubakar Nura, Auwal Mohammed, Suleiman Hassan, and Alhassan Mohammed.

According to Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, the suspects were arrested at a residence allegedly used as a hideout by a notorious gang leader, Saidu Umar Namaska, who remains at large.

A search of the premises yielded several dangerous items, including one automatic pump-action gun with two live cartridges, a bolt cutter, cutlasses, scissors, shisha pots, and other illicit substances.

In a separate raid, police arrested additional suspects linked to another gang led by Sudaise, also currently on the run. Jamilu Ibrahim and Jamilu Ilisayu were found in a shop and attempted to evade arrest by threatening officers with knives and escaping through the rooftop. Weapons, including cutlasses and knives, were discovered hidden under their bed.

The Commissioner of Police, Niger State Police Command, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to proactive crime-fighting measures. He urged residents of Niger State to support law enforcement by providing timely and credible information on criminal activities in their communities.

“We are determined to rid the state of criminal elements. With the support of the public, we can make Niger State safer for all,” he stated. The police are currently investigating the suspects and working to track down remaining gang members.