Kano Task Force Nabs Suspected Gang Leader in Rivers State

The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has caught an alleged gang leader known as “Malam Keya” in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

On Thursday, the Task Force Chairman, Muhuyi Magaji, shared the news of the arrest. He stated that the suspect has been moved back to Kano for prosecution.

Mr Magaji explained that the suspect ran away after being wanted for violent gang clashes that took many lives.

“The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has arrested Ishaq Lawan Ibrahim, popularly known as “Malam Keya”, a 27-year-old man from Yelwa in Dala Local Government Area, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He is suspected of playing a leading role in the violent gang clashes that have disturbed the peace of parts of Kano State.

“Malam Keya is alleged to be a gang leader who orchestrated and sponsored the violence, fuelling and funding the hoodlums behind attacks that claimed lives and left residents of Dala Local Government living in fear.

The suspect reportedly fled Kano after the Task Force stepped up security in areas hit by gang violence. These areas include Jakara, Madigawa, Yalwa, Sanka, Kul Kul, Dogon Nama, Kuka Bulukiya, Dala, Shatsari, and Dandalin Turawa. With solid intelligence, operatives tracked him down in Port Harcourt, where he was caught in an operation led by the Task Force’s Head of Operations, CSP Bashir Gwadabe. He has now been brought back to Kano,” Mr Magaji said.

“Let me assure you that those who fund violence should know that no distance and no hiding place can save them. This arrest is just the start. We will not rest until peace is fully restored.”

He added that the arrest outside Kano shows the Task Force’s commitment to chasing wanted suspects beyond the borders of the state.

“The Task Force assures the people of Kano State that it will not stop until we dismantle criminal gangs, their sponsors, and their drug supply networks.

“The Task Force appreciates the support of the Kano State Police Command, the Rivers State Police Command, and all other law enforcement agencies for their commitment to the success of the operation.