The Jigawa State Police Command has arrested members of a suspected motorcycle-snatching syndicate allegedly linked to the killing of nine people and the theft of 33 motorcycles across Kaduna, Kano and Jigawa states.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Shi’isu Adam, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, saying the suspects were involved in motorcycle theft, receiving stolen property and other violent crimes.
He said the investigation began after one of the suspects allegedly attacked an Okada rider and stole his motorcycle in Aujara District, Jahun Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
Following the incident, police officers, with the support of local vigilantes, responded quickly, recovered the stolen motorcycle and arrested the suspect.
The arrest reportedly led to the identification and subsequent arrest of other members of the syndicate operating across the three states.
According to the police, investigation revealed that the suspects were involved in the theft of at least 33 motorcycles belonging to members of the public.
The suspects also allegedly confessed to killing nine people during their criminal activities across Kaduna, Kano and Jigawa states.
The arrested suspects include Ado Saleh, also known as Datti, 55; Abdullahi Saidu, 37; and Magaji Danladi. Others are Sabiu Miko, Habibu Dan Iya, Shamsu Sani, 32, Ali Salisu, 40, Alhassan Isa, also known as Tata, and Ado Ali.
The Jigawa State Commissioner of Police, CP Tijjani Murtala, commended the officers involved in the operation and investigation.