Security personnel operating under the Zamfara State Security Guards have apprehended a suspect, Ashiru Jijji, for allegedly supplying refreshments, specifically soft drinks to armed bandits operating in the region.
During an interrogation session with journalists, conducted in the Hausa language, Jijji openly admitted to regularly delivering beverages to two notorious bandit leaders, identified simply as Ali and Inuwa. His confession highlights a disturbing layer of local support that continues to fuel criminal activities in the troubled North-Western state.
Authorities have not disclosed whether the suspect will face immediate prosecution or be further interrogated as part of broader efforts to dismantle logistics networks serving armed groups in the region.
Bauchi Police Prevent Religious Clash Following Scholar’s Death
In a related development, the Bauchi State Police Command successfully intervened to stop a potential outbreak of violence between two Islamic sects, just hours after the death of renowned Islamic scholar, Dr. Abdulaziz Idris Dutsen-Tanshi.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, swiftly moved to quell the rising tensions by deploying officers and directing the State Intelligence Department (SID) to commence a comprehensive and discreet investigation into the incident.
According to a press release issued by the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Ahmed Wakili, the conflict was triggered by a sermon delivered by the Chief Imam of Galli Mosque, Ahmad Isa Jaja, around 2:45 p.m. on April 4, 2024—the same day Dr. Dutsen-Tanshi was laid to rest. The sermon, delivered in the Jahun area of Bauchi metropolis, reportedly contained statements perceived as offensive by followers of the late scholar.
Enraged by the Imam’s comments, some of the cleric’s supporters marched to the mosque in protest, raising fears of an imminent clash. However, quick action by the Police Command, including the deployment of a tactical unit led by the Divisional Police Officer of Dutsen-Tanshi Division, helped to de-escalate the tension.
The protesting crowd was peacefully dispersed, and the Imam was taken into protective custody to ensure his safety. Authorities confirmed that no injuries or damage to property occurred during the incident.
Commissioner Aliyu, in a subsequent statement, appealed to religious leaders to exercise discretion and responsibility while addressing their congregations. He stressed the need for clerics to avoid making remarks that could incite violence or deepen sectarian divides. He also reaffirmed the police’s commitment to upholding peace and fostering mutual respect among all religious groups in the state.
