The Jigawa State Police Command has arrested members of a motorcycle-snatching syndicate accused of killing nine people and stealing 33 motorcycles across three states. The suspects allegedly operated in Kaduna, Kano and Jigawa.

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Shi’isu Adam said the breakthrough began after one of the suspects attacked an okada rider and snatched a motorcycle in Aujara District, Jahun Local Government Area. Officers working with vigilantes recovered the motorcycle and arrested the suspect.

Further investigation led to the identification and arrest of other alleged members of the group. The suspects reportedly admitted to snatching at least 33 motorcycles belonging to members of the public in different locations.

They also allegedly confessed to violent attacks in which some victims were injured, and to the killing of nine people during their activities across the three states. Nine suspects have been named in connection with the case.

The Commissioner of Police, Tijjani Murtala, praised the officers involved and a member of the public whose intervention helped with the initial arrest.

He directed further investigation to identify remaining members of the syndicate, recover more stolen motorcycles and ensure that those found culpable face prosecution.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper