Police Turn Down N1m Bribe, Apprehend Suspected Bandit in Kaduna Hotel Raid

A police Divisional Officer in Kaduna Community has thwarted a nefarious attempt at bribery, rejecting a staggering one million naira offered by a suspected bandit apprehended at a hotel in Tafa town.

The arrest, which occurred on January 19, 2024, unfolded following credible intelligence received by the divisional headquarters regarding the presence of the suspected individual at Easyway hotel in Tafa. Acting swiftly, operatives, led by the vigilant Divisional Police Officer, raided the hotel and arrested 28-year-old Bello Muhammad from Zamfara State.

Notably, the police recovered a substantial sum of N2,350,000:00 from the suspect, believed to be the proceeds of kidnapping. ASP Mansir Hassan, the Police Command Public Relations Officer, disclosed that during interrogation, Muhammad confessed to being part of a kidnapping gang operating in the Kagarko forest of Kaduna.

What adds intrigue to the case is that the seized money is reported to be Muhammad’s share of a ransom, a fact corroborated by incriminating images found on his mobile phone. Pictures retrieved depict him brandishing an AK47 rifle in a forest setting.

However, the plot thickened when the suspect attempted to derail the investigation by offering a one million naira bribe to the Divisional Police Officer. Unfazed, the police official promptly rejected the illicit offer, affirming the commitment to justice.

ASP Mansir assured that the investigation is ongoing, with the suspect cooperating by providing crucial information. Commending the Tafa Division’s operatives, Commissioner of Police Kaduna State Command, CP A.D Ali, urged sustained efforts to curtail crimes in the region.

In a broader call to action, CP Ali emphasized the importance of vigilance among hoteliers, recreation, and leisure service operators, urging them to scrutinize customer identities to prevent criminal elements from finding refuge in their establishments. The directive underscores the collective responsibility in maintaining the security and well-being of the community.