The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested seven suspected bandits during coordinated intelligence-led operations targeting criminal networks operating within the Soda Forest axis and adjoining border communities in Bagudo Local Government Area.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued in Birnin Kebbi, noting that the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to dismantle banditry networks and disrupt their logistics and support structures.

According to him, the arrests were carried out on June 5, 2026, following intensified security operations based on credible intelligence regarding criminal activities in the area.

He explained that operatives of the Mobile Police Force, while patrolling along the Illo–Lolo Road, intercepted three suspects travelling on a Haojue motorcycle from the Soda Forest area towards border communities.

Preliminary investigations reportedly showed that the suspects were on a mission to supply food items to bandits hiding in forest locations.

The suspects were identified as Muhammadu Bande, Aliyu Abubakar and Muhammadu Aliyu. The motorcycle used for the operation was also recovered.

In a separate operation along the Bakin Ruwa–Ka’oje axis, security operatives arrested four additional suspects identified as Haruna Abubakar, Abubakar Lawali, Anme Shehu and Yahaya Shehu.

Police said sustained pressure on criminal elements in the area is yielding results as security forces intensify efforts to curb bandit activities.

The suspects are currently in police custody while investigations continue to determine the full extent of their involvement in criminal operations, including alleged links to recent attacks in the area, such as the killing of three Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) personnel.

The police command stated that all suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigations.

The Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, CP Umar M. Hadejia, described the arrests as a significant success in the command’s ongoing operations against banditry and violent crime.

He commended the operatives for their professionalism and resilience, and also appreciated members of the public for providing timely intelligence that aided the operations.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, denying them operational freedom, and restoring lasting peace across affected communities. It also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with useful information, assuring that all reports would be treated with strict confidentiality.