The Nigeria Police Force has announced a breakthrough in its fight against organised crime following the arrest of two notorious bandits and kidnapping kingpins.
The suspects, who have allegedly orchestrated a wave of violent crimes across Katsina, Zamfara, Niger, and Kwara states, were intercepted during a high-stakes intelligence operation.
On Friday, December 19, 2025, operatives from the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID–IRT), working in tandem with the Kwara State Police Command, conducted a covert raid along the Komen Masallaci axis in the Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The operation resulted in the successful apprehension of 26-year-old Abubakar Usman, popularly known as “Siddi,” and 30-year-old Shehu Mohammadu, also known as “Gide.”
During the arrest, police recovered a significant cache of incriminating items. These included an AK-47 rifle loaded with 20 rounds of live ammunition and ₦500,000 in cash, which authorities believe to be unspent ransom money.
Additionally, security forces seized a brand-new Honda Ace 125 motorcycle valued at ₦1,850,000, which investigations suggest was purchased using the proceeds from previous kidnappings.
Preliminary findings by the police indicate that the duo not only led kidnapping raids but also functioned as major suppliers of arms and ammunition to other criminal elements within the region.
Notably, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, highlighted that Abubakar Usman had recently gained notoriety after a viral social media video showed him flaunting firearms and large sums of cash.
The suspects are currently in custody and are reportedly cooperating with investigators. The police aim to use the intelligence gathered to track down remaining members of the syndicate and recover further weaponry hidden across the frontline states.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, praised the professionalism of the operatives involved in the mission.
He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians. He also urged the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to assist in ongoing security efforts.
