Katsina Police Arrest 20 Suspects Over Alleged Rape, Other Offences

The Katsina State Police Command has arrested 20 suspects in connection with alleged rape and other unnatural offences as part of its intensified efforts to combat crime and protect vulnerable members of society across the state.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Shehu, disclosed this during a press briefing at the Command Headquarters, which was addressed on his behalf by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu.

According to the police, the arrests were recorded within the period under review out of a total of 123 cases reported to the Command.

DSP Aliyu revealed that 108 of the cases have already been charged in court, while 15 are currently under investigation.

He explained that the suspects arrested for rape and unnatural offences formed part of a broader crackdown on serious crimes in the state.

Other arrests included 22 suspects linked to armed robbery, seven suspects for culpable homicide, four suspects for possession of counterfeit currency, and 10 suspects for possession of illicit drugs.

DSP Aliyu stated that the Command also achieved success in recovering dangerous weapons and other exhibits during its operations.

Items recovered included three AK-47 rifles, over 200 rounds of live ammunition, four motor vehicles, 32 suspected rustled animals, large quantities of illicit drugs, and vandalised high-tension electricity cables.

He noted that the arrest of suspects involved in sexual offences underscores the Command’s resolve to confront crimes that threaten the dignity, safety and rights of women, children and other vulnerable persons in the state.

While describing the achievements as modest, the police spokesperson assured residents that the Command would intensify its operations to reduce crime further and ensure public safety across Katsina State.

DSP Aliyu expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police for his continuous support and guidance, as well as to the Katsina State Government for its cooperation.

He also commended members of the public for providing useful information and urged them to sustain their support by promptly reporting suspicious activities to security agencies.