Police nab bandits’ leader who burnt priest’s house, Killed seminarian in Southern Kaduna

Operatives of the Kaduna State Police Command have arrested one Yakubu Saidu, a suspected leader of bandits in the state, who masterminded the September 2023 attack on St. Raphael Catholic Church, Kamantan, in Zangon Kataf Local Council.

In the attack, the bandits set ablaze the priest’s house, burning a seminarian, Stephen Naaman, in the process.The Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, said the suspect was arrested at Zangon Urban last Friday due to diligent pursuit of the case by operatives of the command.

Hassan said: “In a commendable display of swift action and dedication to public safety, the Kaduna State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner CP Ali Audu Dabigi psc, has successfully apprehended a notorious kidnapper, Yakubu Saidu, also known as Ismail ‘M’, who was involved in banditry, culpable homicide and mischief by fire.

“On September 7, 2023, at approximately 2030hrs, the Officer in Charge of Fadan Kamanta, Zonkwa, alerted authorities of a distressing situation at St. Raphael Catholic Church, Kamantan, where suspected kidnappers had launched an attack.”

“Despite the urgency of the situation, police operatives, in collaboration with military personnel, swiftly mobilised to the scene. Regrettably, the suspects had already set ablaze the priest’s residence before the arrival of the security personnel.

“Despite the valiant efforts, one seminarian, Stephen Naaman, tragically lost his life in the inferno and property worth millions of naira, including a Honda vehicle and a motorcycle, were consumed by the fire.

“Due to diligence and the tireless pursuit of the issue by the police, on March 22, 2024, one Yakubu Saidu, the alleged mastermind and leader of the notorious kidnapping gang, was apprehended and he confessed to his involvement in the heinous crime.

“The Commissioner of Police commends the police operatives for the swift and effective response to the distress call. Their dedication and bravery are a testament to their commitment to protecting the lives and property of the citizens of Kaduna State.

“The Kaduna State Police Command reassures the public of its unwavering resolve to combat crime and ensure the safety and security of all residents.”