Suspected Bandit Informant Arrested in Sokoto

Security operatives have arrested Ashiru Abubakar, a suspected informant accused of providing information to bandits operating around Romo community in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Abubakar, from Gumfa Gebe village in Wamakko Local Government Area, was allegedly linked to criminal elements operating in Tambuwal and surrounding communities.

He was also reportedly connected to a threat issued to residents of Romo, who were allegedly given an ultimatum to pay ₦10 million or risk an attack.

The arrest comes amid heightened security concerns in Tambuwal and neighbouring communities, where residents have raised concerns over recent attacks and kidnappings.

Confirming the arrest on Wednesday, the Sokoto State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmed Rufai, said Abubakar had been charged to court.

Rufai said the arrest followed investigations into the suspect's alleged activities and links to criminal elements in the area. He added that the police command would continue to take action against individuals suspected of supporting criminal activities across the state.

Other reports said Abubakar was allegedly providing information about community activities and security arrangements to bandits. However, these details have not been publicly established by the police beyond the confirmation that he was arrested and charged in connection with alleged links to criminal elements.

The development comes as communities in Tambuwal and surrounding areas continue to call for stronger security measures and improved intelligence gathering to prevent further attacks and kidnappings.

Residents have also called for conditions that would enable people displaced by insecurity to safely return to their communities.

The allegations against Abubakar remain subject to judicial proceedings.