The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested 398 suspects in a sweeping nine-day operation targeting crime hotspots across the state, recovering a cache of weapons, stolen phones, and illicit drugs.
The operation follows the launch of a Special Task Force by the Kaduna State Government, with the Nigeria Police Force leading efforts alongside the Military, DSS, Civil Defence, NDLEA, FRSC, Nigeria Customs, Immigration, Correctional Service, KADVIS, KASTLEA, and other agencies.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the suspects were apprehended in a series of intelligence-led raids on identified criminal hideouts. The coordinated crackdown has reportedly forced several criminals to flee the state to evade arrest.
Among those arrested is Mathew Adamu, a notorious gang leader found in possession of a locally-made pistol, and Adamu Umar, a known drug trafficker, whose case has been handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution.
In addition to the arrests, the police recovered 29 mobile phones, dangerous weapons, and a variety of illegal drugs. Authorities confirmed that several of the recovered phones have already been returned to their rightful owners after verification.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, has directed all Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Teams, and members of the Special Task Force to maintain high alertness and sustain the aggressive anti-crime strategy.
“This operation is only the beginning. The Command is determined to sanitize Kaduna State and ensure the safety and security of all residents,” CP Muhammad said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperative by reporting any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or through available emergency contact lines.
