Sokoto Police Arrest Notorious Bandit, Recover AK-49 Rifle in Intelligence-Led Operation.

The Sokoto State Police Command has apprehended a well-known bandit and recovered an AK-49 rifle with live ammunition during a strategic, intelligence-driven operation. The arrest occurred on Saturday, July 13, 2025, and was executed by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit following a reliable tip-off.

The suspect, Buba Magaji, a resident of Julirkol village in Silami Local Government Area, was taken into custody for his suspected involvement with the notorious Lakurawa bandit group.

In a statement released on Thursday, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Ahmad Rufai stated that Magaji is considered a key member of the syndicate, which has been linked to numerous attacks in areas such as Silami, Wamakko, Binji, and Yabo.

According to DSP Rufai, Magaji admitted during questioning to participating in the gang’s criminal activities. He then guided officers to a bush near the Silami axis, where he had hidden a high-powered rifle. A follow-up search on Tuesday, July 16, 2025, led to the recovery of one AK-49 rifle, a magazine, and 22 live rounds of ammunition.

The Commissioner of Police for Sokoto State praised the prompt action of the operatives and the assistance provided by local residents, whose information was vital to the operation. He emphasized that the arrest and weapons seizure represent a major breakthrough in the fight against organized crime in the region. Efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend other members of the Lakurawa gang.

The police have called on residents to stay alert and continue sharing timely intelligence to support ongoing security initiatives throughout Sokoto State.