Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu Reporting
Kaduna State, Nigeria
Operatives of the Kaduna State Police Command have successfully apprehended a suspected notorious kidnappers’ gang leader, identified as Saidu Yakubu, alias “Ismail.”
This arrest follows the gang’s alleged involvement in the tragic attack on St. Raphael Catholic Church in Fadan Kamanta, Kafanchan Diocese, Jema’ah Local Government Area of Kaduna State, on September 7, 2023, which resulted in the death of a seminarian, Na’aman Danladi.
According to a statement by the State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, issued on Saturday, the arrest was made in collaboration with military personnel. Hassan revealed that the suspect has confessed to his participation in the crime.
The statement commended the swift action taken by the Kaduna State Police Command, led by Commissioner Ali Dabigi, in apprehending the suspect. It recounted the distressing events of September 7, 2023, when the Officer in Charge of Fadan Kamanta, Zonkwa, reported an attack at St. Raphael Catholic Church. Despite the prompt response of security forces, the suspects had already set fire to the parish house, resulting in the tragic loss of seminarian Stephen Naaman’s life and the destruction of property worth millions of naira, including a Honda vehicle and a motorcycle.
However, due to diligent investigation and relentless pursuit by the police, Yakubu Saidu, the alleged mastermind of the kidnapping gang, was apprehended on March 22, 2024. He confessed to his involvement in the heinous crime.
The Commissioner of Police commended the police operatives for their swift and effective response to the distress call, highlighting their dedication and bravery in protecting the lives and property of Kaduna State citizens. The statement concluded with a reassurance of the command’s unwavering commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety and security of all residents in the state.