The Sokoto State Police Command has made significant strides in combating crime within the region, recently apprehending 21 suspects linked to a variety of offenses such as criminal conspiracy, mischief, and theft, including those involved in the theft of essential infrastructure components. A notable incident highlighted by the State Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Musa, involved the vandalism and theft of electricity cables intended for the Sokoto Eastern Electrification Project. This revelation followed a complaint from Engineer Sani Aliyu, the Project Manager from SAMAG Engineering, who reported the theft of aluminum conductor wires in Goronyo town. The police swiftly initiated an investigation, leading to the arrest of Murtala Abdullahi and a receiver, Usman Muazu, both from Goronyo Local Government Area.
Upon further investigation, authorities discovered that the arrested suspects conspired with two other individuals, Yakubu Bawa and Umar Aliyu, who remain at large. The stolen wires were recovered in the residence of the receiver, Muazu, which underscored the level of planning involved in the crime. Such incidents are reflective of a broader pattern of criminal activity in the region, where vandalism of essential services poses risks not only to infrastructure but also to the safety and livelihoods of residents who depend on them.
Additionally, the police made another breakthrough on October 5, 2024, when officers from the Achida police outstation conducted a stop-and-search operation. During this operation, they intercepted Bashar Ibrahim, a driver found transporting a vehicle loaded with sacks of aluminum conductor wires along with tools typically used for vandalism. Ibrahim admitted to collaborating with others, including Aminu, Faisal Hamza, and receiver Abu Yantukane, who have established a mode of operation targeting electric wires along Achida Road. Such operations demonstrate the proactive measures being employed by the Sokoto police to address the rising trend of infrastructure theft.
In a separate, but related development, police officers in Achida town arrested two suspects, Sulaiman Ahmad and Shamsu Muhammad, who were found in possession of stolen copper wires. Their confessions revealed a broader network, implicating another individual, Auwalu, who is currently at large, and involved earlier vandalism of a transformer at Dogaye Village. These updates point to a persistent issue with organized vandalism of electrical infrastructure within various localities in Sokoto State, indicating a systemic challenge that necessitates ongoing law enforcement vigilance.
Furthermore, the Sokoto Police Command’s Striking Force apprehended Nasiru Yahaya, also known as “Zuga,” and Yasir Shehu from Unguwan Rogo Minannata. These suspects had been involved in the theft of numerous motorcycles, including popular brands like Bajaj and Honda Super Cub, indicating both a troubling trend of motorcycle theft within the metropolis and the complicity of a broader network of receivers. The police have been diligent in ensuring that individuals involved in these thefts are tracked down, with several receivers also being arrested as part of this ongoing initiative.
The Commissioner of Police emphasized the importance of these arrests in fulfilling their mandate to protect citizens and maintain public order, commending the police force’s dedication to community safety. CP Ahmad Musa reiterated the commitment to pursue the suspects still at large until they are brought to justice. His appreciation of the officers involved also highlights a culture of accountability and courageous service, ultimately aiming to restore safety and security for the people of Sokoto State. The relentless efforts of the police in making these arrests demonstrate a proactive approach to curbing crime and fostering a safer environment for all residents, confirming the police’s essential role as guardians of peace and order within the community.
