Police arrest 230 suspects in Kano

The Nigeria Police Force in Kano State has announced the arrest of 230 suspects and the rescue of kidnapped victims during coordinated operations carried out between April 20 and May 20, 2026.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, disclosed this to journalists where he reviewed the security situation and operational achievements of the command.

Bakori said the period under review witnessed relative peace across most parts of the state, but noted isolated incidents of violent crime in areas such as Fagge, IBB Road, Hotoro Quarters, and border communities with Katsina State.

He explained that the command responded with intensified intelligence-led operations, targeted raids, visibility policing, and inter-agency collaboration under a Joint Task Force framework.

According to him, the measures led to the disruption of criminal networks and improved public confidence in security operations across the state.

The police said a total of 230 suspects were arrested within the period, including 18 armed robbery suspects, 5 suspected kidnappers, 32 drug dealers, and several others linked to vehicle theft, burglary, and violent disturbances.

The command also rescued three kidnapping victims, who have since been reunited with their families.

A large cache of weapons and illicit items was recovered, including firearms, locally made guns, cutlasses, knives, drugs, and stolen vehicles.

Police also recovered tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and SIM cards believed to have been used in criminal activities.

Bakori said all suspects are currently under investigation and will be charged to court upon completion of due process.

The Commissioner said the command has strengthened its Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) to improve rapid response to emergencies such as armed robbery and kidnapping.

He added that border deployments have been reinforced to prevent criminal infiltration into Kano State, while patrols and surveillance operations have been increased in vulnerable areas.

Bakori also stressed the importance of community policing, noting that engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and market associations has helped in addressing security challenges.

He reaffirmed collaboration with sister security agencies, including the military, DSS, NSCDC, and local vigilante groups.

The police commissioner urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, assuring that all reports would be treated with strict confidentiality.

He reiterated the command’s commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring that Kano remains safe and secure for residents and businesses.