The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has apprehended a five-member gang suspected of kidnapping, extortion, theft, and criminal conspiracy along the Zaria–Kano route in Kaduna and Kano States.

According to CSC Afolabi Babawale, NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, the Special Intelligence Squad, led by Commandant A. S. Dandaura, intercepted the syndicate after they targeted Sani Ahmad, a journalist traveling with his friend, wife, and child.

The suspects, who flagged down Ahmad under the pretext of danger ahead, robbed him of valuables, including two iPhone 12 Pro Max phones, a Tecno Camon 40 Pro, and forced a ₦300,000 transfer via Opay.

The suspects—Ibrahim Abubakar Garba, Umar Fulani, Aliyu Mohammed, Murtala Salisu, and Imrana Hassan—have admitted their involvement. Items recovered include six mini smartphones, multiple phones, ATM cards, wristwatches, earpods, jewelry, and other personal belongings.

Commandant Dandaura confirmed a thorough investigation is ongoing, and all suspects will face a court of competent jurisdiction. He warned travelers, particularly at night, to exercise caution, as criminal activities often spike around the Yuletide season.