Shocking report of how bandits migrated from Niger Republic to forests in Kwara, Niger and Kogi — Investigation

An investigative security report released has shown how bandits from the neighbouring Niger Republic migrated to the thick forests of Kwara, Niger and Kogi States, thereby carrying out kidnapping, abductions, armed robbery and cattle rustling across the three States and other regions.

The report indicated that bandits in large numbers are currently occupying the forests mainly within Gbubu in Lafiagi Local Government Area of Kwara State. From this strategic hideout, the bandits allegedly planned and executed coordinated attacks on schools, business owners, expatriates, and wealthy individuals across Katsina, Zamfara, Kwara, and Niger States.

Bandits have taken advantage of the thick forest in Kwara and crossed to Kogi West from where they are involved in multiple kidnapping and abductions before escaping back to their bases in Kwara and other adjoining states.

Also, it is widely believed in Niger, Chad and other neighbouring countries that banditry activities pays heavily due to official negotiation with bandits leading to payment of ransom to free hostages. Bandits mostly escape through their normal routes to Niger after criminal operation only to return rearmed.

In one of their escape after an operation, security agents intercepted them after an actionable intelligence on their escape plan was received.

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) stationed in Kwara State successfully ambushed the fleeing suspects, arresting seven individuals before they crossed state lines.

The foreign bandits however operates in collaboration with local criminals who often showed them the pathways in the forest.

Those arrested include:

Dahiru Adams, 50, from Sambe Village, Kankara LGA, Katsina State

Adamu Mohammad (Baushe/Dogo), 58, from Gurbi Village, Jibia LGA, Katsina State

Abdullahi Abubakar (Bature), 35, from Jibia LGA, Katsina State

Abubakar Abdullahi (Turke), 35, from Maradi, Republic of Niger

Mohammadu Lawai (Jalil), 40, from Maradi, Republic of Niger

Zubairu Abubakar, 35, from the Republic of Niger

Shaibu Usman, 35, from Bura Village, Ningi LGA, Bauchi State

At the time of their arrest, the bandits were all living in Gbudu forest.

The suspects confessed to belonging to various bandit syndicates operating mostly in the forests of Kwara, Niger, Kogi and some Northwest States.

The admitted to have settled in forest camps, using cross-border routes and local collaborators who allegedly supplied food, fuel, communication devices, and intelligence about potential targets.

The presence of foreign nationals from the Republic of Niger further highlights the persistent challenge of porous borders, enabling free movement of armed groups into Nigeria.