Security operatives in Niger State have arrested the village head of Guiwa, Mai Anguwa Garba Mohammed, along with 13 others, for allegedly aiding armed bandits in Mashegu Local Government Area.
The arrests took place on May 23, 2025, during a coordinated clearance operation conducted by a joint team of police officers, local hunters, and vigilantes. The operation targeted known bandit hideouts in Guiwa and Telle villages.
The village head is suspected of providing shelter and logistical support to the bandits. The other suspects, all from nearby communities, are also believed to have collaborated with the criminal elements.
Those arrested include:
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Alhaji Abdullahi Shehu (Wawa village, Borgu LGA)
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Umar Abubakar (Gwajibo)
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Musa Mohammed (Telle village)
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Mohammed Abubakar (Dukku, Rijau LGA)
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Molema Aliyu (Pallagi)
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Oro Abubakar (Arera)
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Shehu Alhaji Ardo (Adogon Mallam)
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Umar Abdullahi, Ibrahim Abubakar, Saidu Mohammed, Babuga Abdullahi (all from Lumma)
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Mohamadu Bako (Gwajibo)
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Babuga Saidu (Lumma)
A search of the village head’s residence led to the recovery of four motorcycles, a live cartridge, and ten cattle believed to have been stolen. Three injured cattle were humanely slaughtered on site.
The Niger State Police Command has confirmed the arrests and stated that investigations are ongoing. Authorities reaffirmed their determination to dismantle all networks supporting banditry in the region.
