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Security operatives in Niger State have arrested the village head of Guiwa and 13 other individuals for allegedly aiding and abetting armed bandits in the Mashegu Local Government Area.
According to sources, the arrests took place on May 23, 2025, during an ongoing clearance operation by a joint team comprising police officers, local hunters, and vigilantes. The operation targeted known bandit camps and hideouts in Guiwa and Telle villages.
The village head, Mai Anguwa Garba Mohammed, was arrested on credible suspicion of providing shelter and logistical support to the armed groups.
The other suspects are residents of surrounding communities believed to have collaborated with the criminals. Those apprehended include:
- Alhaji Abdullahi Shehu of Wawa village, Borgu LGA
- Umar Abubakar and Mohamadu Bako of Gwajibo
- Musa Mohammed of Telle village
- Mohammed Abubakar of Dukku, Rijau LGA
- Molema Aliyu of Pallagi
- Oro Abubakar of Arera
- Shehu Alhaji Ardo of Adogon Mallam
- Umar Abdullahi, Ibrahim Abubakar, Saidu Mohammed, Babuga Abdullahi, and Babuga Saidu — all of Lumma
A search of the village head’s residence reportedly uncovered four motorcycles, one live cartridge, and ten cattle believed to have been stolen by the bandits. Of the ten cattle, three were found injured and were slaughtered to prevent further suffering.
The Niger State Police Command has confirmed the arrests and stated that investigations are ongoing. The Command reaffirmed its commitment to identifying and prosecuting all individuals involved in facilitating banditry across the state.
