The Kano State Police Command says it has arrested a suspect and the recovery of explosives following a security alert about a possible terrorist attack in the state last week.
Addressing journalists on Monday, the Commissioner of Police, Salman Dogo Garba, revealed that the police acted swiftly to neutralise the threat after receiving intelligence about an impending attack during the Tijjaniyya Maulud celebration in Kano.
“Recently, there was a security alert about an impending terrorist attack in Kano, particularly during the Tijjaniyya Maulud celebration. We raised the alarm, informed the public, and set up the necessary machinery to address the situation,” CP Garba said.
He disclosed that while some suspects fled the state after the alert, one of them was tracked and arrested in Kano. “One suspect, who came from Chad, was arrested after his host, who had the key to his house, was also apprehended. Additionally, we made significant recoveries, including explosives,” he explained.
The commissioner detailed the measures taken by the police, including deploying personnel and working with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit to secure venues. “When we received the alert about the Tijjaniyya programme, we deployed all personnel and informed all stakeholders to ensure safety,” he said.
CP Garba acknowledged the challenges of working in a politically charged environment but reassured residents of the command’s commitment to maintaining security. “In Kano, we politicise everything even the food we eat. But I want to assure everyone that my team and I are fully committed to securing this state,” he stated.
He also recounted efforts to track a high-profile suspect connected to a past deadly attack. “We tracked him to the venue, but he moved. In the process, we arrested a soft target who provided us with critical information. This is part of our commitment to ensuring that no criminal outsmarts the system,” he added.
The police boss urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in sustaining peace and security in the state. “Let me thank everyone who has supported our efforts. Together, we can ensure Kano remains safe for all,” Garba said.
