The Yobe State Police Command has arrested a suspected bandit kingpin in connection with a deadly robbery attack on Ngalda Market in Fika Local Government Area.
The attack, which occurred on Monday, claimed seven lives, left 11 others injured, and resulted in the theft of approximately N16.5 million.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Damaturu, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, confirmed the arrest and disclosed that a locally made pistol and three cartridges were recovered from the suspect.
“On January 20, 2025, at approximately 9:00 p.m., six armed robbers attacked three shops at Ngalda Market,” Abdulkarim said. “The incident led to seven fatalities and eleven injuries, with the robbers escaping with about N16,500,000.”
He further revealed that local youths in the area mobilized and neutralized three of the attackers on the spot, while the remaining three fled with injuries.
Victims of the attack and the deceased were evacuated to the General Hospital in Fika for medical treatment and autopsy.
The Commissioner of Police in Yobe State, Garba Ahmed, has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident and intensified efforts to track down the remaining members of the syndicate.
He also appealed to the public to assist the police with credible information and urged residents to remain calm.
The arrest marks a significant step in addressing insecurity in the area, as authorities work to restore peace and bring the perpetrators to justice.