Usamatu Adamu, the Village Head of Unguwan Tambai in Runka, Safana Local Government Area, has been arrested by the Katsina State Police Command as part of a larger operation targeting banditry and crime in the region.
Police spokesman ASP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu announced Adamu’s arrest while presenting around 15 suspected criminals in Katsina on Tuesday. The arrest occurred on October 3, following credible intelligence that led police to track down the 45-year-old, who was residing in Sabon Gida village, Igabi LGA, Kaduna State. He faces allegations of criminal conspiracy and kidnapping.
Sadiq-Aliyu stated, “The suspect was apprehended after an extensive investigation linked him to several kidnapping incidents in Runka. Preliminary findings revealed his involvement in the criminal conspiracy and kidnapping of individuals in Runka town. He confessed to the crimes and named accomplices Rabe Sada, also known as BBC, aged 62, and 48-year-old Nasiru Sha’aibu. The three allegedly provided information to Umar, a notorious bandit kingpin operating in the Runka forest. Investigations are ongoing.”
In a separate case, police arrested 24-year-old Usman Mohammed-Iyal on September 27 for the brutal assault and attempted murder of a 16-year-old girl in Ambassadors Quarters, Katsina. The victim was on an errand for her mother when the incident occurred. In an attempt to conceal his crime, the suspect threw her into a nearby well and attempted to kill her by throwing stones. The girl’s father reported her disappearance, prompting a swift police response that rescued the victim and arrested the suspect. She is currently receiving medical attention, and investigations continue.
Additionally, Binta Muhammed, 35, was arrested for suspected child cruelty. She confessed to the offense and will face charges once the investigation concludes.
On September 25, three suspects were apprehended in Kofar Durbi Quarters for vandalism and theft during a routine patrol. Police, along with local vigilance groups, found them with stolen electric armored cable, a pointed iron bar, and a hacksaw. The suspects admitted to the crime and mentioned four accomplices who are still at large, prompting ongoing efforts to apprehend them.
Furthermore, three other suspects were arrested on September 22 in connection with another vandalism and theft case. The police also reported the arrest of four individuals involved in a burglary in Babban Mutum village, Baure LGA, where they stole approximately N2 million.
The police continue to intensify their operations against crime in the region.