By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Police Command has announced the arrest of a notorious bandit and the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition, following a swift intelligence-led operation.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, operatives from the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit acted on credible intelligence on July 13, 2025, at about 1600hrs. The operation led to the arrest of one Buba Magaji, male, of Julirkol Village in Silami Local Government Area (LGA) of Sokoto State.
Magaji was identified as a close associate of the Lakurawa bandit syndicate, a group known for terrorizing residents and engaging in criminal activities across several LGAs, including Silami, Wamakko, Binji, and Yabo.
During interrogation, the suspect confessed to his involvement in the syndicate’s operations. He also disclosed the location of an AK-49 rifle he had concealed in a bush along the Silami axis.
Acting on this lead, police operatives expanded their operation on July 16, 2025. A thorough search of the indicated area led to the recovery of:
- One (1) AK-49 rifle
- One (1) magazine
- Twenty-two (22) rounds of live ammunition
Speaking on the breakthrough, the Commissioner of Police, Sokoto State Command, described the arrest and recovery as a significant victory in the ongoing efforts to combat criminal elements in the state.
“This operation exemplifies the effectiveness of actionable intelligence and the dedication of our Anti-Kidnapping Unit,” the commissioner stated. “It directly disrupts the activities of a group causing immense suffering in Silami, Wamakko, Binji, and Yabo. We commend the vigilance of the citizens who provided the crucial tip-off.”
The Commissioner further assured the public of the Command’s commitment to eradicating kidnapping, banditry, and other forms of criminality. Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend additional members of the Lakurawa syndicate and dismantle their operations entirely.
