The Nigeria Police Force has apprehended two suspected banditry and kidnapping kingpins terrorizing the North-Central and North-West regions, including an individual recently seen flaunting firearms and cash in a viral social media video.
The suspects were arrested in Kwara State following a covert operation by the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID–IRT) in collaboration with the Kwara State Police Command.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, identified the suspects as Abubakar Usman (alias Siddi), 26, and Shehu Mohammadu (alias Gide), 30. They were intercepted on Friday, December 19, 2025, along the Komen–Masallaci axis in Kaiama Local Government Area.
According to the police, the duo is part of a notorious syndicate responsible for violent crimes across Katsina, Zamfara, Niger, and Kwara States. Investigations further revealed that the gang doubles as suppliers of arms and ammunition to other criminal elements.
The police specifically identified Abubakar Usman (Siddi) as the suspect recently captured in a widely circulated video on social media, where he was seen brandishing high-calibre weapons and displaying large sums of money.
Recovery of Arms and Ransom Proceeds
During the operation, detectives recovered an AK-47 rifle loaded with a magazine containing 20 rounds of live ammunition.
Also recovered were ₦500,000 in cash, identified as unspent ransom money, and a brand-new red Honda Ace 125 motorcycle valued at ₦1,850,000. Police investigations established that the motorcycle was purchased using proceeds from ransom payments.
CSP Hundeyin noted that both suspects are cooperating with investigators, providing information aimed at dismantling the rest of the syndicate and recovering additional weapons.
Reacting to the development, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their professionalism and dedication. He reassured Nigerians of the Force’s unwavering commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
The police urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations.
