Police secure convictions of 19 for terrorism, arms possession, vandalism in Kebbi
Police Announce Convictions Following Intelligence-Led Operations in Kebbi State
The Kebbi State Police Command reported a series of convictions stemming from intelligence-led operations in the region, as outlined by Police Public Relations Officer SP Bashir Usman in a statement released on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.
Justice Emmanuel Gakko of the Federal High Court in Birnin Kebbi delivered the sentences, which included 15 years’ imprisonment on each count for multiple defendants, along with the forfeiture of a vehicle and a Bajaj motorcycle to the Federal Government. These actions followed successful operations targeting known security flashpoints in Yauri, Bagudo, Sakaba, and other areas.
Among those convicted was Ripin Liu, a Chinese national who received a six-year prison sentence—though he was granted the option to pay a fine—after being found in possession of a locally made Beretta pistol. Another individual, Mohammed Bello Ibrahim, also known as Banki, was sentenced to four years in prison without the possibility of a fine. Abubakar Siddi received a three-year sentence, as did several others, including Mohammed Bako, Bello Dantiye, Aliyu Dandaula, and Abubakar Usman. Buba Alhaji Umaru, arrested in Bagudo for crossing into Nigeria with a locally fabricated pistol, also received a three-year sentence.
Additionally, John Zweme was sentenced to two years and six months, while both Aliyu Bako and Sani Alaramma received two-year sentences, each with the option of a fine.
The police further reported that six individuals were convicted for vandalizing and stealing electricity cables in Sakaba Local Government Area, an act that has contributed to prolonged power outages in affected communities. The convicts—Sani Tanko, Ibrahim Hamza, Samson Sunday, Abdulrahman Isah, Adamu Musa, and Masudu—received prison sentences ranging from three to eight years.
Commissioner of Police Umar M. Hadejia commented on the judgments, stating that the convictions serve as a warning that criminal activity has consequences. Hadejia emphasized the command’s commitment to pursuing complex cases to their conclusion, highlighting the 17-month process from arrest to conviction as evidence of their dedication.
He encouraged community members to assist police efforts by reporting any suspicious activities. “Every credible tip will be acted upon decisively,” he assured the public.
