Police Nab Bandit, Recover AK-49 Rifle, Ammunition

Sokoto State Police Command yesterday announced the arrest of a notorious bandit, Buba Magaji.

The command also recovered a significant cache of arms and ammunition following a swift intelligence-led operation.

The commissioner of police, Ahmed Musa, said, “On July 13, 2025, at about 1600hrs, operatives attached to the command’s anti-kidnapping unit acted decisively on credible intelligence. The operation culminated in the arrest of one Buba Magaji of Julirkol village, Silame local government area of Sokoto state.

“Magaji’s arrest stemmed from a specific tip-off identifying him as a close associate of the Lakurawa bandit syndicate, a group responsible for terrori\sing residents and perpetrating crimes across multiple LGAs, including Silame, Wamakko, Binji, and Yabo.

“During the course of the investigation, the suspect confessed to his involvement in criminal activities linked to the syndicate.

Magaji revealed the location of an AK-49 rifle he had concealed in the bush along the Silame axis.

“Following this lead, investigators expanded their operation on July 16, 2025. A meticulous search of the specified bush area resulted in the recovery of one AK-49 Rifle, one magazine, and 22 rounds of live ammunition.

“This operation exemplifies the effectiveness of actionable intelligence and the dedication of our Anti-Kidnapping Unit. It directly disrupts the activities of a group causing immense suffering in Silame, Wamakko, Binji, and Yabo.

“Investigations into Magaji’s activities and the wider Lakurawa syndicate network are actively ongoing.”