The Nigeria Police Force has dismantled a criminal syndicate allegedly involved in selling and modifying stolen motorcycles for use by Boko Haram terrorists operating in Niger and Kaduna states.
Arrests and Evidence Recovered
During a press briefing in Abuja, Assistant Inspector General of Police Benneth Igweh disclosed that operatives apprehended three suspects in Suleja Local Government Area, Niger State:
- Shamsuddeen Yunusa (30) from Adamawa State, identified as the gang leader.
- Zaharadeen Saidu (25) from Kaduna State, who acted as a courier for the motorcycles.
- Mustapha Haruna (22) from Adamawa State, who worked as the syndicate’s motorcycle mechanic.
The following items were recovered:
- 22 motorcycles (some stolen).
- Master keys used for theft.
- Stolen mobile phones.
Syndicate Operations
The syndicate specialized in trading stolen motorcycles, which were sold or rented to suspected Boko Haram operatives in parts of Niger State and Birnin Gwari LGA, Kaduna State.
- Motorcycles were sold for ₦200,000–₦250,000.
- Shamsuddeen reportedly received ₦250,000 as part payment for a motorcycle from a client in Birnin Gwari.
- Zaharadeen transported the motorcycles, while Mustapha fixed them before delivery.
Additional Arrests
In a related operation, Sunday Danlami, a member of a notorious gang operating in Benue State, was also arrested.
- He confessed to being involved in the kidnapping of 21 doctors in 2024.
- Danlami admitted to numerous robbery and motorcycle thefts on Adiga Road, sharing the proceeds with gang members.
- He revealed his use of charms for protection during criminal activities.
Impact and Police Efforts
The arrest of the syndicate members and recovery of stolen items highlights the Nigeria Police’s efforts to disrupt criminal networks and reduce crime financing, particularly activities linked to terrorism and insecurity in the region.