••Governor Yusuf Hails State Services, Pledges Continued Support for Security Operations, Intelligence Gathering
The Kano State Government has lauded the Directorate of State Services (DSS) for its successful operation in apprehending five individuals suspected of involvement in the kidnapping and murder of a one-year-old girl, Sakina Mamuda. The victim was abducted from Duhun Bake village in Gwarzo Local Government Area, where the suspects also reside.
According to a statement released by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the suspects allegedly kidnapped baby Sakina and demanded a ransom from her family. Tragically, despite the ransom demand, the perpetrators proceeded to brutally kill the infant and dispose of her body in an abandoned open well.
The five arrested suspects have been identified as Zailani Rabiu, Hafizu Yusuf, Abubakar Abdulkareem, Umar Lawan, and Amadu Salisu. All are reportedly from the same community as their young victim in Gwarzo Local Government Area. They are currently under investigation for criminal conspiracy, kidnapping, and homicide.
The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Haruna Isa Dederi, addressed the press at a joint briefing held at the Government House in Kano, alongside the Commissioner for Information and other high-ranking officials. Barrister Dederi reiterated the state government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that justice is served swiftly and decisively in this deeply distressing case.
Governor Yusuf expressed his profound grief over the heinous crime and commended the DSS operatives and other security agencies for their prompt and effective response. He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to bolstering the state’s security infrastructure through increased investment in intelligence gathering, logistical support, and enhanced collaboration among various security agencies.
“This senseless tragedy has shaken us to the core,” Governor Yusuf stated. “I commend the DSS for acting swiftly and decisively in apprehending these suspects. We will continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of our people and ensure that those who threaten the peace and security of our state are brought to justice.”
The Governor further assured the public of his administration’s ongoing commitment to equipping all security formations with the necessary resources to combat crime effectively. He also urged citizens to remain vigilant and actively support the efforts of security agencies by providing timely and relevant information.
The brutal killing of the toddler has elicited widespread condemnation from the public, with numerous calls for the swift prosecution of the suspects and the imposition of the full weight of the law against anyone found guilty of harming children. The swift action of the DSS in this case has been seen as a positive step towards ensuring accountability and justice for the victim and her grieving family.
