Police Arrest 580 in Security Sweep…Authorities Turn to Spiritual Intervention Amid Persistent Terror Attacks…Bandit Leaders Abandon Crime, Surrender to Authorities…Nigeria, UAE Seal New Aviation Deal
● Police Arrest Over 580, Rescue 30 Kidnap Victims in Northwest Nigeria
The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested more than 580 suspects for various crimes, rescued at least 30 kidnapped victims, and recovered stolen property and illegal weapons, Commissioner of Police Muhammad Rabiu announced Tuesday.
“From December 31, 2024, to date, the Kaduna State Police Command has recorded significant successes in our fight against crime,” Rabiu said, according to The Punch.
Among those arrested were two suspected bandits’ informants, Inusa Ibrahim and Hamisu Musa, caught providing targets to bandits. Police also apprehended motorbike thieves Ibrahim Abubakar and Surakatu Usman, recovering 16 stolen motorcycles and three tricycles. Recovered items included 34 motorcycles, 10 vehicles, multiple firearms, and 52 rustled cows.
Rabiu said Kaduna in Northwest Nigeria has become safer because of efforts by the police and other security agencies. “We are working tirelessly to sustain and improve the security situation,” he added.
● Local Authorities Engage 75 Islamic Scholars for Prayers Against Insecurity
Authorities in Musawa County of Katsina State have engaged 75 Islamic scholars to offer special prayers for divine intervention in tackling terrorism and insecurity.
Dr. Habib Abdulkadir, the County chairman, said the initiative complements ongoing security efforts. The prayers have already started yielding positive results, as security conditions in some affected communities have improved, Abdulkadir said, as reported by Sahara Reporters.
Musawa, like several other areas in Katsina, has been plagued by banditry, kidnappings, and cattle rustling. While security efforts have made progress, attacks persist, prompting local authorities to explore additional measures, including spiritual intervention.
Authorities reportedly spend over ₦4 million monthly on the prayer sessions, covering sponsorship and allowances for the scholars.
● Military Pressure Forces Top Bandits to Surrender in Katsina
Several notorious bandit leaders in Katsina State, Northwest Nigeria have surrendered following intensified military operations, officials confirmed.
More than 1,000 kidnapped hostages in southern Katsina State were released by bandit -terrorists as a result of surrenders, according to This Day Live. Faruk Hayatu, Chairman of Sabuwa County of Katsina told media that most hostages were recovered without ransoms paid, yet others had paid ransoms. If all details announced by authorities are verified, the hostage recovery would represent a major victory against the tens of thousands of kidnapper mercenaries operating in Katsina and neighboring states.
Among those laying down their arms are Abu Radda, Umar Black, Abdullahi Lankai, Jijjige, and Dabar Musa Dan Gandu, all operating from the Jibia area. Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the sustained military crackdown forced the bandits to seek peace.
During their surrender, they handed over weapons, freed hostages, and requested government support, including markets, hospitals, and clean water.
Military authorities welcomed the move but maintained that operations would continue against those refusing to surrender, especially in Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and the broader Northwest region.
● Nigeria, UAE Sign Amended Aviation Agreement
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has signed an amended Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to strengthen aviation ties between both nations.
The signing took place at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) 2025 in Dubai, according to Nigerian media.
The agreement aims to enhance connectivity, expand codeshare agreements, and create more opportunities for Nigerian airlines. Keyamo also pushed for a review of UAE’s visa restrictions on Nigerians, emphasizing its economic benefits.
Both countries agreed to a Technical Cooperation Agreement covering safety, regulation, and airport security. “Nigeria is ready to work closely with the UAE to implement these agreements effectively,” Keyamo said.
What’s News Today? February 12, 2025, compiled by Ezinwanne Onwuka for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
