A police operation has led to the arrest of nine suspects, including two boutique operators, over alleged armed robbery, motorcycle theft, and murder in Niger State.
The arrests have drawn attention after investigators claimed that weapons used for criminal activities were hidden inside a boutique in Abuja.
Police said the suspects were linked to a network that allegedly carried out robberies across Suleja and nearby communities. Moreover, investigators believe the group was involved in the theft of motorcycles and other valuables.
According to the Niger State Police Command, the breakthrough began after a distress call was received from the Rafin-Chinaka area of Maje. Officers attached to the Maje Division responded immediately and launched a search operation.
The police later discovered that a victim had been robbed of a Jincheng motorcycle. However, the suspects reportedly encountered resistance as security operatives moved quickly to track them down.
Speaking on the development, Police Public Relations Officer SP Wasiu Abiodun said the suspects attempted to flee through the Zuba axis after the robbery.
He stated, “Having robbed the victim, the suspects were sighted trying to escape through Zuba axis, but they were pursued by the police team and one of them named Bitrus James was arrested with the motorcycle.”
The arrest reportedly opened the door to a wider investigation. Furthermore, information obtained from the suspect led officers to several other individuals believed to be connected to the group.
Abiodun explained, “In the course of investigation, the suspect mentioned one Aminu and two others as members of a syndicate which specialised in robbing victims of motorcycles and other valuables within Suleja, Kwamba and environs. Based on the suspect’s confession, eight other suspects were arrested in connection with the crime.”
Among those arrested were Aminu Ibrahim and Samaila Nasiru from Jabi, Abuja. Police alleged that a boutique managed by Nasiru was used to store firearms and dangerous weapons.
Meanwhile, investigators also arrested other suspects from Abuja, Suleja, Sabon-Wuse, and nearby areas. Authorities said some members allegedly helped hide suspects, while others were involved in handling proceeds from criminal activities.
The investigation further uncovered financial transactions linked to the suspects. In addition, police claimed one suspect provided personal details that were used to open an account for moving funds obtained from crimes.
Perhaps the most disturbing allegation involves the death of a motorcycle owner identified as Alhaji Monsa.
According to police findings, some members of the group allegedly attacked him behind Niger Motel in May. Authorities said he was stabbed and his motorcycle was taken away.
Investigators also arrested a suspected receiver of stolen motorcycles. Police claimed he bought motorcycles from the group before arranging transportation to buyers in different states.
Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to locate additional suspects who remain at large. Therefore, security agencies have urged residents to continue sharing useful information.
