POLICE ARREST SUSPECTED BANDIT INFORMANT OVER THREATS, N10M EXTORTION IN KATSINA

By; Muftau Fatimo
The Katsina State Police Command has detained a 28-year-old man on suspicion of acting as an informant for bandits after reports of threats and extortion surfaced.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, the investigation began on April 9, 2026, when a resident lodged a complaint about receiving threatening calls from unidentified individuals.
The police said the victim reported that the callers demanded N10 million in ransom and threatened to kill him if he failed to comply, causing him to fear for his safety.
The statement explained that after receiving the complaint, detectives quickly launched an investigation and arrested one Usman Isah in connection with the crime.
Police also recovered charms believed to have been used to support the suspect’s illegal activities.
“During interrogation, the suspect confessed to the commission of the offence, further stating that he conspired with his brother (name withheld), now at large, to commit the offence.
“The suspect further confessed to previous involvement in similar criminal activities some years ago,” the statement added.
The police said efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing accomplice, adding that the suspect in custody will be charged to court after investigations are completed.
The Commissioner of Police in Katsina State, CP Ali Umar Fage, has ordered officers to intensify efforts to track down the remaining suspect.
He also warned that the command will continue its crackdown on informants, collaborators and anyone aiding banditry or other criminal activities in the state.
The police urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency lines.
