- The Kano State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to combat thuggery and other criminal activities within the state, arresting a total of 149 suspects. This was announced at a press conference held at the Bompai Police Headquarters in Kano on Thursday by the command’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Kiyawa. The arrests come as part of the achievements recorded by the command over the past ten days under the new leadership of the Kano State Commissioner of Police, Salman Garba.
Commissioner Garba, who assumed office on June 24, 2024, has spearheaded a series of targeted operations aimed at tackling the surge in criminal activities. These efforts have not only led to the apprehension of 149 suspects but have also resulted in the seizure of a variety of arms, dangerous weapons, and substantial quantities of illicit drugs. Kiyawa stated, “The re-emergence of these criminal activities is a matter of great concern for the Kano State Police Command, which we are fully committed to combating head-on.”
This recent crackdown is part of a broader, strategic initiative directed by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, focused on addressing thuggery and violent crimes throughout the state. Kiyawa elaborated, “We have employed robust security measures to address the root causes of this violence and promote peace and harmony in the affected areas and the state at large.”
The operations conducted from June 24 to July 4 have been particularly fruitful, leading to the arrests of 106 suspected thugs, 25 armed robbery suspects, two suspected kidnappers, three suspected drug dealers, three suspected motor vehicle thieves, two suspected motorcycle thieves, and eight other suspected thieves. Among the recovered items were a pump-action rifle, motor vehicles, tricycles, motorcycles, knives, cutlasses, and significant quantities of illicit drugs.
Highlighting some of the notable arrests, Kiyawa recounted the capture of two armed robbery suspects on June 26. “These suspects attacked victims in their homes with dangerous weapons, inflicted injuries, and robbed them of valuable items,” he said. The swift actions of the police led to the immediate arrest of the suspects and the recovery of the stolen items.
In another successful operation, the police dismantled a notorious car theft syndicate, which resulted in the recovery of a stolen Toyota Carina II and the arrest of three suspects. “The suspects confessed to a series of car snatchings in Kano State and environs,” Kiyawa revealed.
Furthermore, during joint patrols with local vigilantes, the police intercepted significant quantities of illicit drugs and dangerous weapons. On July 1, the police recovered 87 wraps of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp from a suspect in Yankaba Quarters.
Under Commissioner Garba’s leadership, the command has intensified patrols, deployed additional personnel, and bolstered collaboration with community leaders and other security agencies. This coordinated approach is seen as essential in effectively combating the root causes of violence and preventing future incidents.
Addressing the public, Commissioner Garba urged the citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with the police. “We must appreciate the law-abiding people of the state for their continuous support, prayers, understanding, and cooperation,” he said. He also emphasized the importance of community involvement in reporting suspicious activities and ensuring a safe environment for all residents.
The concerted efforts by the Kano State Police Command under Commissioner Garba’s leadership demonstrate a strong commitment to restoring peace and security in the state. As these operations continue, the public’s cooperation and support will be crucial in sustaining these gains and making Kano State a safer place for everyone.
