Operatives of the Kebbi State Police Command have killed a suspected kidnapping gang leader in the Bagudo local government area of the state. The police also rescued an abducted resident during the operation, according to a statement released on Friday, June 19, 2026.
Police Act on Tip-Off, Arrest Suspect
The state police public relations officer, Bashir Usman, said the operation followed information provided by a member of the public. Another suspected gang member, identified as Bube Tukur, a resident of Kasuwar Daji in Bagudo and an indigene of Yarma Village in Suru local government area, was arrested. Weapons allegedly used by the criminal group were recovered during the operation.
Usman stated that investigators linked Tukur to the abduction of a resident, Abu Geza, from Geza Village in Bagudo LGA. The suspect was arrested in a joint operation involving police operatives and other security personnel.
Gang of Eight Members Identified
“Investigation revealed that the suspect belongs to a gang of eight members, including one Jiji Mujugu, who was identified as the gang leader,” Usman said. Tukur later led security operatives to the hideout of the alleged gang leader.
The suspected kingpin opened fire on security personnel during the operation and attempted to flee. “The operatives returned fire, neutralising him. One locally fabricated pistol was recovered from him,” Usman added.
Background of Violence
In a separate incident, armed men attacked the Ayegunle Bunu community in Kogi State, killing two and abducting several residents and travellers. Local sources reported chaos as gunfire erupted, with many fleeing for safety. Police launched an investigation as the community grapples with the aftermath of the violent raid.
