The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested seven individuals suspected of involvement in bandit activities linked to the killing of three Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officers. Police Public Relations Officer SP Bashir Usman disclosed the arrests in a statement issued on Monday. The suspects were apprehended during intelligence-led operations on June 5, 2026, in the Bagudo Local Government Area.
Three of the suspects were intercepted on a Haojue motorcycle along the Illo–Lolo Road while allegedly returning from the Soda Forest axis to border communities. Authorities said they were procuring food supplies for bandits hiding in the forest. The motorcycle used in the movement was recovered by police.
In a separate operation along the Bakin Ruwa–Ka'oje axis, four more suspects were arrested as part of intensified efforts to disrupt criminal networks. All seven are now in police custody. Investigations are ongoing to establish their roles in recent security breaches, including the attack on the FRSC officers.
Commissioner of Police CP Umar Hadejia described the arrests as a significant breakthrough in the fight against banditry in the state. He praised the Mobile Police Force for their professionalism and thanked the public for providing credible intelligence. CP Hadejia reaffirmed the command's commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations to dismantle criminal networks and restore security.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue sharing information with security agencies, assuring that all tips would be handled confidentially. Police authorities stated the suspects would be charged in court after investigations conclude.
CP Umar Hadejia claims a breakthrough in Bagudo yet the FRSC officers were killed under conditions that suggest prior intelligence failure. The same operation that caught suspects carrying food also exposes how deeply entrenched the logistics network is inside border hideouts. If bandits rely on regular supply runs, then the forest axis has been operating with sustained access for months. Arrests may disrupt activity, but they do not explain why such movements were not detected earlier.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
