By Deborah Nnamdi
The Kaduna State Police Command, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies, has arrested a suspected vote buyer ahead of Saturday’s by-elections. A total of N25.9 million in cash was recovered during the operation.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrest in a statement released on Saturday in Kaduna. He said the arrest was part of a coordinated effort by security agencies to ensure peaceful and credible elections, free from criminal interference.
According to Hassan, the suspect, identified as Shehu Aliyu-Patangi, was apprehended at about 3:30 a.m. on Saturday at a popular hotel along Turunku Road in Kaduna metropolis.
He stated that preliminary investigations suggest the recovered cash was intended to be used to bribe eligible voters and influence the outcome of the election.
“During interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime and pleaded for leniency,” Hassan said.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammad Rabiu, commended the synergy between the police and other security agencies, which he said was instrumental in the swift arrest.
He issued a stern warning that anyone attempting to compromise the electoral process, regardless of their status, would be dealt with according to the law.
The Police Command also reassured Kaduna residents of its commitment to maintaining maximum security before, during, and after the elections.
It urged the public to participate in the electoral process peacefully and without fear or intimidation.
