Kebbi Police Convict 19 People for Terrorism and Other Crimes

The Kebbi State Police have convicted 19 people for terrorism, illegal gun possession, and vandalism. This followed 17 months of investigation and court proceedings.

The convictions took place at the Federal High Court in Birnin Kebbi. Justice Emmanuel Gakko presided over the cases. The police carried out intelligence-led operations in Yauri, Bagudo, Sakaba and other areas known for security issues.

The police announced this in a statement on Wednesday. The Public Relations Officer, Bashir Usman, called the convictions a major step in the fight against terrorism, illegal arms, and damage to national assets.

Two alleged terrorism leaders, Aliyu Hadari and Umar Musa Uzzi, were found guilty on three counts. They were charged with terrorism, providing support to an armed group, and conspiracy to commit terrorism. This is against the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Hadari and Uzzi were caught along Yauri Road. They were in a vehicle believed to be used for moving kidnapped victims to their hideout. The court sentenced each of them to 15 years in prison for every count and ordered them to forfeit the vehicle and a Bajaj motorcycle to the Federal Government.

In another ruling, 11 people were convicted for illegal possession of firearms. The police reported seizing 11 different weapons, including homemade pistols and dane guns.

One of those convicted is a Chinese man named Mr Ripin Liu. He was caught with a locally made Beretta pistol and got six years in prison, with an option to pay a fine.

Mohammed Bello Ibrahim, known as Banki, received four years without the option of a fine. Abubakar Siddi got three years without the option of a fine.

Others like Mohammed Bako, Bello Dantiye, Aliyu Dandaula, Abubakar Usman, and Buba Alhaji Umaru were all sentenced to three years in prison. John Zweme received two years and six months, with an option to pay a fine. Aliyu Bako and Sani Alaramma each got two years with an option of a fine.

The police also convicted six people for vandalizing and stealing electric cables in Sakaba Local Government Area. This theft interrupted electricity supply to many communities. The sentences for these convicts ranged from three to eight years.

The Commissioner of Police, Umar M. Hadejia, reacted to the judgments. He said the convictions show the consequences of crime and the police's commitment to justice.

"These convictions send a clear message that crime does not pay," Hadejia stated.

He thanked Justice Gakko for managing the cases well. He also praised the investigators and lawyers for their hard work. Hadejia promised to continue fighting against terrorism and illegal arms.

He encouraged residents to report any suspicious activities. He assured them that credible information would be taken seriously.

"Every credible tip will be acted on quickly," he added.

The police reaffirmed their commitment to protect lives and property while ensuring those involved in crime face justice.