The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested 182 individuals in a sweeping operation targeting criminal hideouts and hotspots across the state.

According to a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the coordinated crackdown—led by Divisional Police Officers in major urban areas—aims to restore public trust and strengthen internal security.

During the operation, security agents recovered a significant cache of illicit items, including one AK-47 rifle magazine loaded with 31 rounds of live ammunition, 30 bags and approximately 1,600 wraps of substances suspected to be Indian hemp, and a stolen Honda Accord vehicle traced to Zaria.

The arrests took place in several key locations, including Rigasa, Kawo, Tudun Wada, and Sabon Tasha.

DSP Hassan disclosed that on June 9, officers from the Kakuri Division, acting on intelligence, arrested 35-year-old Ziya Abdullah, who attempted to sell a vehicle believed to be stolen. His arrest led to the apprehension of his alleged accomplice, Bashir Usman, also known as “Yellow.” The duo confessed to robbing a resident in Gona using knives and cutlasses and stealing the vehicle later recovered in Zaria.

The police also recovered an abandoned bag in the Rafin Guza area on June 13, containing an AK-47 magazine with 31 live rounds. The bag was reportedly discarded during a police pursuit of fleeing suspects.

Some of the arrested individuals have already been charged, while others remain under investigation. The police say all those found guilty will face prosecution.

Commissioner of Police Rabiu Muhammad reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to combating crime and called on residents to assist security efforts by providing timely and credible information.

“The Command remains resolute in its mission to rid Kaduna State of criminal elements and ensure the safety of lives and property. We urge citizens to remain vigilant and cooperative,” he said.