In a significant development in Zamfara State, Nigerian police have arrested a state legislator, a District Head, and a former local government chairman on charges related to kidnapping and banditry. The arrests mark a major escalation in the state’s ongoing efforts to combat organized crime.
Aminu Ibrahim, who represents the Kaura Namoda state constituency in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, was detained by police on allegations of complicity in banditry and kidnapping. According to reports, Ibrahim is implicated in the abduction of Ibrahim Fada, an elderly man from Kasuwar Daji village.
In addition to Ibrahim, the police have also taken into custody Jafaru Kumburki, the District Head of Kaura Namoda, and Nasiru Muhammad, a former Chairman of Kaura Namoda Local Government Area (LGA). Both are facing similar allegations. Kumburki is accused of orchestrating the kidnapping of nine locals from Gidan Sambo village, for which a ransom of N800,000 was reportedly paid. Muhammad is alleged to have collaborated with others in abducting a local named Ango from Kumurya community.
The Commissioner of Police for Zamfara State, Muhammad Dalijan, confirmed the arrests and revealed that additional investigations are underway. Three other District Heads—of Danjibga, Bukkuyum, and Unguwar Gyauro in Tsafe and Bukkuyum LGAs—are also under scrutiny for their alleged roles in banditry and kidnapping.
Dalijan stated, “An investigative panel has been established by the state government to examine the involvement of the District Heads in these criminal activities. Prior to this, the police conducted a thorough investigation and have submitted their findings to the state governor for further action. We are committed to identifying, arresting, and prosecuting anyone involved in banditry or related crimes.”
He assured that the investigation will continue and that anyone found to be directly or indirectly involved will be questioned and held accountable. The police have emphasized their determination to address the growing issue of banditry in the region and to bring those responsible to justice.
