The Katsina State Police Command has arrested a 45-year-old man, Surajo Isyaku, over alleged involvement in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and supplying information to armed bandits operating in Matazu Local Government Area of the state.

The suspect was arrested on May 15, 2026, following what the police described as credible intelligence.

According to the command, preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect confessed to participating in two kidnapping operations in Sayaya Village, Matazu LGA, where victims reportedly paid a total ransom of N7 million. Police said he admitted receiving N900,000 as his share.

The police also alleged that the suspect invited a notorious bandit leader identified as Bello and his gang to Dukawa Village on two occasions, during which 14 cows were rustled.

He was further accused of participating in the April 5, 2026 attack on Sayaya Village, which led to the burning of houses and the death of a police officer attached to the Matazu Division.

The Commissioner of Police in Katsina State, Ali Umar Fage, commended officers involved in the operation and reiterated the command’s commitment to tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities in the state.

Police said investigation is ongoing, while efforts are being intensified to arrest other fleeing suspects linked to the crimes.