The Zamfara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has paraded five suspects for allegedly engaging in illegal dealings in Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) with communities linked to bandit activities.

The command explained that the operation, carried out on September 5, 2025, along the Talata-Mafara–Jangebe axis, led to the arrest of a driver, Abbas Umar, in possession of a Volkswagen Golf loaded with 42 jerrycans and three gallons of petrol.

The command said fuel, totalling 1,260 litres, was reportedly acquired from a filling station in Maradun Local Government Area for ₦930 per litre, amounting to ₦1,171,800.

The command further stated that the consignment was intended for Jangebe village in Talata Mafara, a community known for its association with bandit activities.

Intensive investigations linked four other suspects to the transaction: Aliyu Muhammad, 36; Tukur Wambai, 45; Abdullah Tukur, 22; and Yahaya, 20.

The command noted that the suspects lacked clearance or operating licences from the Ministry for Internal Security and Home Affairs, in violation of federal and state executive orders regulating the purchase and movement of petroleum products.

The State Commandant of the Corps, Sani Mustapha, said the arrests form part of proactive measures to curb criminal networks that rely on fuel and other supplies to sustain insecurity across Zamfara State.

He reiterated its zero tolerance for criminal conspiracy and warned that all suspects will face thorough investigation before prosecution in court.