The Niger State Police Command has arrested three suspected members of a criminal gang accused of operating under the guise of a vigilante group to carry out kidnapping and other crimes in Mariga Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects were identified as Alhassan Tanko, 25; Basiru Shaibu, 26; and Ishaya Umar, 28, all residents of Beri community in Mariga LGA.
They were reportedly arrested on August 23, 2026, following intelligence received by the police.
Police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said the suspects were allegedly involved in kidnapping and armed robbery activities in Uraga village and other surrounding communities.
During interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed that a group of seven persons had formed a criminal syndicate while presenting themselves as members of a Yansakai vigilante group.
Police investigations further revealed that the gang was allegedly linked to the killing of at least three victims during kidnapping operations in the area. The group was also accused of stealing motorcycles belonging to some of their victims.
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The stolen motorcycles were reportedly sold to a man identified as Awalu, also from Beri, while efforts are ongoing to arrest him.
A search conducted at the homes of the suspects also led to the recovery of a pump-action rifle, according to the police.
The command said efforts were continuing to apprehend other members of the alleged criminal gang, while the three suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
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