A SaharaReporters investigation has uncovered how armed bandits linked to terrorism, kidnapping and cattle rustling migrated from Niger Republic and Nigeria’s North-West to settle in Gbubu Forest, Kwara State, creating fortified hideouts used to launch attacks across Katsina, Zamfara, Kwara and Niger states. Intelligence reports revealed that security pressure forced the group to attempt an escape route into Niger State, but police operatives intercepted them and arrested seven suspects.
The detainees, all alleged members of armed syndicates, reportedly confessed to kidnapping, armed robbery and extortion during interrogation. Investigators said the group ran multiple forest routes with local collaborators providing logistics and target information. Analysts warn porous borders helped facilitate movement of foreign suspects, urging sustained intelligence operations to dismantle remaining cells. Authorities say more arrests are expected as investigations expand to financiers and hidden camps.