Security forces have apprehended three individuals suspected to be involved in banditry during a targeted operation in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The operation was revealed by security analyst Zagazola Makama in a statement shared on X, where he cited intelligence reports guiding the action.
According to the report, the suspects were arrested at about 10:00 a.m. on April 29 along the Tangaza–Gidan Madi road. Their interception followed actionable intelligence indicating a planned attack in the area.
“The suspects were identified as Aliyu Bello, 30; Dahiru Umar, 25; and Bashar Isah, 29, all said to be from Kwazari village in Kware Local Government Area,” he added
The suspects were reportedly traveling on a motorcycle when they were stopped by security personnel. Preliminary findings suggest they may be part of a criminal network involved in kidnapping activities and the collection of illegal levies from local communities.
During the operation, security forces recovered a cache of weapons and other items believed to be linked to their activities.
“Items recovered from them include a locally made AK-47 rifle, a magazine loaded with 17 rounds of ammunition, two Dane guns, two cartridges, and some charms,” Makama added.
The report further indicated that the weapons had been carefully concealed inside a sack placed within another bag, an apparent attempt to evade detection during transit.
Security sources confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying and apprehending other members of the suspected criminal group, as well as preventing further attacks in the region.
