The Niger State Police Command has arrested 27 suspected hoodlums in Suleja as part of security measures to ensure a peaceful Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

Police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun said operatives raided identified criminal hideouts and blackspots within Suleja metropolis on Sunday between 8:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. The operation covered the Kantoma area, Babangida Market, and Panteka, popularly known as “Jungle.”

The suspects are from Katsina, Kano, Kaduna, Yobe, and Niger states. Those arrested at the Panteka area include Haruna Idris, 20; Imrana Abdullahi, 20; Mohammed Isah, 27; and Yusuf Surajo, 22, all from Niger State. Others include Jibrin Shehu, 26; Ahmad Samaila, 22; and Jamilu Idris, 23, from Katsina State, as well as Auwal Ibrahim, 28; Mohammed Salisu, 20; Murtala Mohammed, 28; and several others from Kano State, alongside Salisu Dauda, 22, from Yobe State.

During the raids, officers recovered a range of dangerous weapons and suspected illicit substances. Items seized include 15 mobile phones, ATM cards, fake identity cards, 10 clubs locally called “gora,” cutlasses, swords, a curved long weapon known as “garrio,” two axes, scissors, knives, and a bag containing suspected cannabis.

Abiodun said the command carried out the operation to rid Suleja of thugs and other suspected miscreants who disturb public peace, especially during festive periods. The suspects are undergoing investigation and will be prosecuted accordingly.