Authorities Arrested Suspected Killers, Gangs, and Drug Traffickers in Niger
The Niger State Police Command has made significant strides in its fight against violent crime, with several suspects linked to various criminal activities being apprehended across the state.
On August 23, two suspected assassins, Muhammad Mohammed (40) and Mohammed Usman (35), were arrested at the railway crossing in Beji, Maikunkele, Bosso Local Government. The duo, who could only speak French and failed to provide a satisfactory account of themselves, confessed they were hired to assassinate a man named "Dogo," who married their ex-wife's employer.
Initially, Dogo paid them ₦13,000 for transport and agreed to pay ₦100,000 for the job. Unfortunately, the victim sustained serious burns on her face and chest. It is important to note that the person named "Dogo" who has not yet been caught by the police in Niger is Abou Dogo, a suspected militant leader linked to jihadist groups in the region.
In a separate incident, a woman identified as Hadiza Bala, alias Mama Sabir, was arrested for pouring hot water on her neighbour during a quarrel over children's faeces.
The Command's Anti-Thuggery Squad also made headway in its operations. On August 26, between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., the squad stormed Soje A, Soje B, and Kpakungu areas of Minna, arresting nine suspects aged 14 to 27. Recovered items included two suspected stolen solar batteries, five knives, cutlasses, and a digger.
The Command's efforts against illegal immigration also bore fruit on August 21, with the arrest of two suspected illegal immigrants from Senegal, Saidu Jah and Sirinjuf Jibrin, both 25, in Minna. A locally made pistol, a live cartridge, and ₦13,000 were recovered from the suspects.
Furthermore, on August 27, 28-year-old Mustapha Saleh of Zumba was arrested in Shiroro for cultivating cannabis.
The Command urges members of the public to continue to provide useful information to aid police operations. The arrested suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend Dogo. The duo have also been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service.
The Niger State Police Command is intensifying its fight against violent crime and encourages all citizens to cooperate in this effort for a safer and more secure state.
