Suspected kidnapper and mastermind of the burning of a seminarian arrested in Kaduna

Men of the Kaduna State Police command, have successfully apprehended a notorious kidnapper, Yakubu Saidu, also known as Ismail ‘M’ who was involved in Banditry, Culpable homicide and mischief by fire.

In a statement released, the spokesperson of the command, ASP Mansir Hassan, said 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 mobilized to the scene. 

Hassan said regrettably, the suspects had already set ablaze the priest’s residence before the arrival of the security personnels. 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. Read here.

‘’Due to diligence and the tireless pursuit of the issue by the police, on the 22nd of March 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. ‘’

Hassan said the state Commissioner of Police CP Ali Audu Dabigi, 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.