Police in Katsina State have detained a 28-year-old man suspected of working as an informant for bandits after he allegedly threatened a resident and demanded a payment of N10 million.
The arrest followed a complaint lodged at the Musawa Police Division by a victim who reported receiving multiple calls from unknown numbers warning that he would be killed if he failed to pay the demanded sum.
According to the police, the threats were made on April 6, prompting the victim to alert authorities three days later. Detectives launched an investigation that led to the arrest of the suspect, identified as Usman Isah.
During the operation, officers also recovered items described as criminal charms, which they believe were used to support the suspect’s activities.
Police spokesperson DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu said the suspect confessed during questioning, admitting that he carried out the act in collaboration with his brother, who is currently on the run.
Investigators also said the suspect acknowledged involvement in similar crimes in the past.
Authorities have begun efforts to track down the fleeing accomplice, while confirming that the suspect in custody will face prosecution once investigations are completed.
The Commissioner of Police, Ali Umar Fage, has ordered intensified operations to identify and arrest others linked to banditry, warning that the command will continue targeting those who aid criminal groups in the state.
Police have also urged residents to report suspicious activities through nearby stations or designated emergency contact lines as part of ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.
