Kano Police Nab Suspect Three Years After Kidnapping, Robbery Of Village Head

The Kano State Police Command has arrested a 27-year-old man, Usman Lawan Baba, also known as “Yellow”, three years after his alleged involvement in the kidnapping and armed robbery of a village head in Bebeji Local Government Area.

Baba, who hails from Dakatsalle in Zango Ranka, was apprehended on 2 October 2025 around 6:00 p.m. by operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad. His arrest is linked to the 9 August 2023 abduction of Alhaji Abdulmumini Mudi Zakari, the Village Head of Garun Babba.

According to a statement released on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the victim was kidnapped and robbed of N2.75 million, a Tecno Kevo 4 handset, and a wristwatch during the attack. He was later rescued by police operatives as the kidnappers attempted to escape.

Police investigations revealed that Baba confessed to taking part in the crime and admitted to receiving N6,000 as his share of the ransom. He also identified several accomplices, including Bello Kici-Kici of Falgore Village, Doguwa LGA, who was later neutralised by police in Jigawa State during another kidnapping operation, and Mallam Sale of Gezawa LGA, killed by police in an armed robbery incident.

Another accomplice, Ruwa Shehu of Gafan Village, Bebeji LGA, is currently serving time in a correctional facility for a separate kidnapping case. Police say others connected to the case, including Ibrahim Gwanja, Sule Naye, and an unidentified suspect, remain under investigation.

Kano State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Squad for the breakthrough and applauded the public for their cooperation.

“This arrest demonstrates our unwavering commitment to bringing criminals to justice, no matter how long it takes,” CP Bakori said. “We will continue to ensure the safety and security of all residents of Kano State.”

The suspect is expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Command urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through its emergency lines: 08032419754, 08123821575, or 09029292926.