- On Saturday, operatives of the Kaduna State Police Command captured a well-known leader of a suspected group of kidnappers, Saidu Yakubu, also known as “Ismail.”
The group was reportedly responsible for the destruction of the parish house and the death of a seminarian, Na’aman Danladi, in an attack on St. Raphael Catholic Church, Fadan Kamanta, Kafanchan Diocese, in Jema’ah Local Government Area of Kaduna State on September 7, 2023.
According to a statement from the state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, the arrest was carried out in collaboration with military personnel.
Hassan stated that the suspect has admitted to being involved in the crime.
He mentioned, “The Kaduna State Police Command, led by Commissioner Ali Dabigi, has effectively apprehended a well-known kidnapper, Yakubu Saidu, also known as Ismail ‘M’, who was engaged in banditry, culpable homicide, and mischief by fire, demonstrating quick action and commitment to public safety.
“On September 7, 2023, at around 2030hrs, the Fadan Kamanta, Zonkwa, Chief raised the alarm about an alarming situation at St. Raphael Catholic Church, Kamantan, where suspected kidnappers had attacked. Despite the urgency, police operatives, in collaboration with military personnel, promptly responded to the scene.
“Unfortunately, the suspects had already set the priest’s residence on fire before the arrival of the security personnel. Despite their efforts, a seminarian, Stephen Naaman, tragically died in the fire, and property worth millions of naira, including a Honda vehicle and a motorcycle, were destroyed.
“Thanks to the diligence and relentless pursuit by the police, on March 22, 2024, the alleged mastermind and leader of the notorious kidnapping gang, Yakubu Saidu, was apprehended and confessed to his involvement in the terrible crime.”
The state Commissioner of Police commended the police operatives for their quick and effective response to the distress call, stating that their dedication and bravery demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of Kaduna State citizens.
The police spokesman also reassured the public of the command’s unwavering determination to combat crime and ensure the safety and security of all residents in the state.
Operatives of the Kaduna State Police Command on Saturday apprehended a suspected notorious kidnappers’ gang leader, Saidu Yakubu, also known as “Ismail.” The gang was said to be behind the September 7, 2023 attack at St. Raphael Catholic Church, Fadan Kamanta, Kafanchan Diocese, in Jema’ah Local Government Area of Kaduna State, razing the parish house […]
