The Katsina State Police Command has arrested a suspected drug trafficker allegedly linked to the supply of illicit substances to armed bandits operating in Funtua Local Government Area and surrounding communities.

The arrest, which followed intelligence-led operations by police personnel attached to the Central Police Station in Funtua, is being viewed as a significant step in the ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal networks and cut off resources that sustain banditry in the state.

Confirming the development on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, said the suspect, popularly known as “Dunbuje,” was apprehended on July 15 at about 5 p.m. after security operatives successfully tracked his movements based on credible intelligence.

According to the police spokesperson, officers conducted an immediate search following the arrest and recovered 500 tablets of D5, a prohibited substance believed to be intended for distribution among criminal elements.

Sadiq-Aliyu disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly specialised in supplying illicit drugs to suspected armed bandits and other criminals operating within Funtua and neighbouring areas, thereby facilitating and sustaining their unlawful activities.

“The suspect is currently in police custody, while investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the distribution network, identify the source of supply, and apprehend other individuals connected to the operation,” he said.

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He added that the suspect would be prosecuted upon the completion of investigations.

The police spokesman further stated that the Commissioner of Police in Katsina State, Mr Ali Umar-Fage, commended the operatives involved in the operation for their professionalism, diligence and prompt action.

Umar-Fage, according to the PPRO, reiterated the command’s determination to weaken criminal groups by targeting their support structures, particularly drug distribution channels and other logistical networks that enable their operations.

The commissioner also appealed to residents to remain security conscious and continue supporting law enforcement agencies with credible and timely information that could aid efforts to combat crime and enhance public safety across the state.

The arrest comes amid intensified security operations aimed at tackling banditry and other violent crimes in parts of Katsina State, with authorities emphasizing the need for stronger community collaboration in the fight against criminality.