The Kano State Police Command has arrested 244 suspects linked to kidnapping, armed robbery, drug trafficking, thuggery and other crimes during security operations conducted across the state in August 2026.
Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing at the command headquarters in Bompai, Kano.
The operations also led to the recovery of firearms, ammunition, illicit drugs, stolen vehicles, tricycles and motorcycles.
Bakori attributed the successes to intelligence-led operations, sustained patrols, targeted raids, surveillance and collaboration with communities and other security agencies.
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The commissioner said the command recorded a reduction in major crimes during the month, crediting the development to proactive policing and increased engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders and other community stakeholders.
Those arrested included eight suspected kidnappers, 28 suspected armed robbers, seven suspected motor vehicle thieves, 19 suspected drug dealers, 117 suspected thugs and 65 other suspects linked to various offences.
Security operations were sustained in parts of Kano metropolis previously identified as criminal hotspots, including Dala, Kofar Nassarawa, Sheka, Dorayi, Rimin Kebbe and Hotoro.
According to Bakori, the operations have helped restore sustained peace in the affected areas.
He disclosed that police actions were continuing in Bachirawa, Gobirawa and Tudun Fulani to dismantle remaining pockets of thuggery and urged residents to provide credible and timely information to support ongoing efforts.
The commissioner also revealed that surveillance and intelligence gathering had been intensified along Kano’s borders to prevent the infiltration of bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements from neighbouring states.
Police visibility has likewise been strengthened at border communities and entry and exit points to ensure the state does not become a refuge for fleeing criminals.
On anti-drug operations, the command recovered 17,684 sachets and 614 wraps of suspected illicit substances during the month.
The seizures included 17,070 sachets of Tramadol, five cartons of Tramadol, 49 sachets, three cartons and 18 packs of suspected Diazepam, 90 sachets of Pregabalin, 210 Exol tablets, 614 wraps of suspected Indian hemp and quantities of suspected Ice.
One of the major breakthroughs occurred on August 25 when police intercepted a Volkswagen Golf at Tudun Yola, Bajallabe Quarters, following intelligence provided by the Nigeria Unity and Stability Corps.
A suspect, Saminu Samaila, 37, from Safana in Katsina State, was arrested after officers allegedly discovered about 13,837 sachets of Tramadol concealed in the vehicle.
Further investigations led to the recovery of additional cartons of suspected Tramadol and Diazepam in Rimin Auzinawa, while a female suspect was also arrested in connection with the case.
Police also arrested seven suspects and recovered 614 wraps of suspected cannabis during an operation in Gunduwawa, Gezawa Local Government Area.
Bakori further disclosed that three pistols and 65 rounds of live ammunition were recovered during investigations into a suspected gun-running syndicate.
The investigation commenced on August 13 after police intercepted a suspicious parcel at Rijiyar Zaki Motor Park based on information provided by a member of the public.
A Tokarev pistol loaded with 48 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition was recovered from the parcel, while subsequent investigations led to the recovery of two additional pistols and more ammunition in Kano and neighbouring Kebbi State.
Several suspects were arrested in connection with the alleged gun-running network, while investigations continue.
The command also recovered six motor vehicles, four tricycles and seven motorcycles linked to criminal activities.
Among the recoveries was a stolen Pontiac vehicle traced to Taraba State and the Niger Republic.
The police additionally dismantled a syndicate allegedly involved in stealing tricycles by posing as injured persons, leading to the recovery of four tricycles.
Bakori disclosed that the command had commenced preparations for the 2027 general elections as political activities gather momentum across the state.
A strategic meeting involving political parties, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organisations, religious leaders and security agencies was held on August 27 to promote peaceful political engagement.
The commissioner said stakeholders were urged to reject hate speech, violence and political thuggery.
He assured stakeholders of adequate security and a level playing field, warning that anyone who breached public peace would face the full weight of the law.
Bakori reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Kano State and commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and residents for their support and cooperation.
