Three suspected kidnappers who abducted and killed a retired Permanent Secretary from Gombe state, Alhaji Atiku Mu’azu, in Kano, were among suspects paraded by Kano state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Salman Dogo Garba, at the Bompai police headquarters on Monday.
Recall that Alhaji Atiku Muazu, a retired Permanent Secretary and former chairman of Gombe state Internal Revenue Generation Board, who was resident in Kano was abducted and killed after collection of ransom from his family by the kidnappers.
CP Dogo told journalists that three suspects involved in the kidnapping and the tragic killing of Alhaji Atiku Mu’azu, have been arrested.
He described the incident as, “a crime that has left a mark of grief within our community.”
According to him: “On January 10, 2025, at about 2 p.m, a report was received from a resident of Janbulo Quarters, Kano that on Jsnuary 8, 2025, at about 3 p.m, one Alhaji Atiku Mu’azu, 64 years old, was kidnapped and a ransom of N20 million was demanded for his release.
“On receipt of the report, the State Commissioner of Police, I raised a team from the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit and directed the rescue of the victim and arrest of the culprit(s).
“Sustained follow-up coupled with intelligence-led operation resulted to the arrest of the following suspects in connection with the case.”
CP Dogo named the suspects to include Abubakar Hassan, A.K.A. Captain (33) of Ringim LGA, Jigawa state, the principal suspect who masterminded the kidnapping and killing of the victim.
Adamu Abubakar Adam (29) of Sharada Quarters, Kano was identified as the receiver of the ransom of N2 million.
Alhaji Hamisu, A.K.A Bakin Bross (34) of Ringim LGA, Jigawa State was the owner of the house used in holding the victim hostage for three days.
The Commissioner of Police further stated that, “during the course of the investigation, the principal suspect confessed to having singlehandedly kidnapped and lured the victim to Ringim LGA of Jigawa State under the pretence of taking him to Kazaure LGA, Jigawa State to collect his car from a mechanic.
” Instead, he conspired with four others including the mechanic of the victim, held him hostage and later killed him after collecting a ransom of N2 million.”
A Toy Gun with six Rubber Bullets were recovered from the principal suspect.
The suspects are currently undergoing discreet investigation at the Command’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Anti-Kidnapping Unit.
They will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.
The Kano police boss further stated that another report was also received on January 26, 2025, at about 01:30 a.m that armed men in large numbers, riding on motorcycles, shooting sporadically, invaded the residence of one Alhaji Auwalu at Sabuwar Unguwa Garo, Kabo LGA, Kano and robbed him the sum of N8 million.
They also kidnapped his daughter, one Zainab Aliyu (16) to unknown destination.
He said the Police Command has set all machinery in place to ensure the rescue of the victim and to apprehend the perpetrators.
CP Dogo added that, “In another development, a team of operatives based on credible information received, conducted intelligence-led operation that led to the arrest of 17 suspected armed robbers who stormed Hotoro, Kawu Quarters, Kano, breaking shops and motor vehicles as well as attacking and robbing innocent people of their belongings.
“Similarly, three additional suspected armed robbers who attacked two innocent people and robbed 200 mobile phones from them at Yankatsari Quarters Kano were arrested.
“Seven mobile phones and dangerous weapons were recovered. In light of these incidents and various security reports obtained from intelligence agencies, the Kano State Police Command has beamed its search light to identify and tackle any likely emerging security threats. Members of the public are urged to continue to remain vigilant and cautious.
“Our safety is paramount, therefore, I encourage you to be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest Police Station or through the following contact numbers; 08032419754, 08123821575, 09029292926. 6.
“I appreciate the support and cooperation of the public and we will remain resolute in our fight against those who threaten the peace and security of our beloved State. 7. Thank you for your attention.
” The role of the Police extends beyond maintaining law and order; it includes the responsibility of fostering trust and partnership with the community we serve. It is within this spirit of collaboration and transparency that we gather here to intimate you on the security situation of the State and the Command’s efforts in maintaining peace and stability.”
