By Taibat Ummi Yakubu

Security operatives in Katsina State have arrested a Point of Sale (PoS) operator and three other suspects over their alleged involvement in a financial and logistics network linked to a feared bandit kingpin, Kachalla Muhammadu, in a development that has sent shockwaves through Matazu Local Government Area.

The suspects — Isiyaku Nasiru, Abubakar Sayaya, Nura Baka Sati and Ubale Mai Cange — were apprehended during coordinated operations carried out by the Katsina State Security Watch Corps in Matazu and surrounding communities between Thursday and Saturday.

Confirming the arrests, the Chairman of Matazu Local Government Area, Shamsuddeen Muhammad Sayaya, said the four individuals are currently under investigation for alleged connections to a criminal network believed to be supporting bandit activities in the area.

According to security sources, investigators suspect that Nasiru, a well-known PoS operator and motorcycle spare parts dealer, played a central role in facilitating financial transactions for the group.

Preliminary findings reportedly indicate that between ₦3 million and ₦5 million passed through his PoS business daily as part of transactions allegedly linked to the bandit network.

Authorities believe the funds were subsequently transferred to another associate suspected of handling the procurement of weapons, ammunition and motorcycles for the criminal group.

Security sources further disclosed that Nasiru allegedly provided useful information during interrogation and reportedly expressed regret over his alleged involvement.

Investigators are now tracing the movement of funds to determine the full scope of the operation and identify any additional individuals who may have participated in the network.

In a related development, Abubakar Sayaya was alleged to have admitted collecting ammunition from Ubale Mai Cange on the orders of a senior bandit commander identified as Lawal, popularly known as Yaya.

Investigators also alleged that Ubale confessed to supplying ammunition to the criminal group on two separate occasions.

Meanwhile, Nura Baka Sati is accused of providing logistical support to the bandits, including the sale of cattle on behalf of the gang and the supply of food and other necessities.

The arrests have sparked surprise and concern among residents of Matazu, many of whom described some of the suspects as familiar faces and respected members of the community.

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One resident, Imrana, said the allegations came as a shock, particularly because Nasiru had operated his PoS and motorcycle spare parts business in the town for several years without attracting suspicion.

“Many people are surprised by these allegations. He has been doing business here for years and was seen as a peaceful trader. We hope the investigation will uncover the truth and expose everyone involved,” he said.

Matazu is one of several local government areas in Katsina State that have endured years of bandit attacks, kidnappings and violent raids, leaving residents living in fear and disrupting economic activities, especially farming and trade.

The area drew national attention in May 2026 following the abduction of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road. The retired military officer later died while in captivity, while his wife was eventually rescued.

Reacting to the latest arrests, Katsina-based security analyst Abubakar Ibrahim urged investigators to conduct a thorough and evidence-based probe, stressing that all suspects remain innocent until proven guilty.

He noted that anyone found to have knowingly financed, supplied or facilitated bandit operations should face the full weight of the law, but cautioned against rushing to conclusions before investigations are completed.

“As serious as these allegations are, due process must be followed. The facts should be established through proper investigation and prosecution where necessary,” he said.

When contacted for comments, the Special Assistant to Governor Dikko Umar Radda on Security, Yusuf Ibrahim Safana, said he would verify the details of the operation.

Similarly, the Police Public Relations Officer in Katsina State, DSP Sadik Aliyu, said the command had not yet received an official report regarding the arrests.

The investigation is ongoing as security agencies intensify efforts to dismantle financial and logistical networks believed to be sustaining bandit activities across parts of Katsina State.