The Kebbi State Police Command has detained seven individuals suspected of involvement in banditry following coordinated intelligence-driven operations across parts of the state, including areas linked to recent violent incidents in Bagudo Local Government Area.
According to a statement released on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, the arrests were made on June 5, 2026, during targeted security operations around the Soda Forest corridor and adjoining border settlements known for criminal activity.
Security operatives, particularly personnel of the Mobile Police Force, reportedly intercepted three suspects on the Illo–Lolo Road while they were riding a Haojue motorcycle. Investigators believe the individuals were moving from the Soda Forest axis toward border communities to deliver food supplies to armed groups hiding within forest enclaves. The motorcycle used in the operation was recovered at the scene.
In a separate sweep along the Bakin Ruwa–Ka’oje axis, four additional suspects were apprehended as part of ongoing efforts to intensify pressure on criminal networks operating in the region.
Police say all seven suspects are currently in custody and are being questioned to establish their level of involvement in banditry and possible connections to recent attacks, including an incident that led to the deaths of three Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officers.
The Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, CP Umar Hadejia, described the development as a major breakthrough in the fight against violent crime, praising the operatives for their professionalism and commending residents for providing timely intelligence that aided the operation.
He reiterated the Command’s commitment to sustained, intelligence-based policing aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts, restoring peace in affected communities, and ensuring that offenders face prosecution upon conclusion of investigations. He also encouraged continued public cooperation, assuring that all information received would be treated with confidentiality.