Nigeria, May 26 -- Security operatives comprising the police and local vigilantes have arrested the village head of Guiwa in Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State, Garba Mohammed, for allegedly aiding banditry in his area.

The traditional ruler was arrested around 9 a.m. on Friday, following reports linking him and 13 others to bandits operating in Mashegu and surrounding areas. Bandits allegedly convened in Mr Mohammed's residence to plan attacks.

The spokesperson of the Niger State Police Command, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the arrest in a telephone interview with PREMIUM TIMES. He said the action was part of a coordinated clearance operation targeting known criminal enclaves in the state.

"On 22 May 2025, our operatives, in col...