NSCDC arrests four suspected phone snatchers in Kano as Ramadan night crimes rise

Security operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have arrested four suspected phone snatchers in Kano State following a crackdown on criminal gangs accused of attacking residents during late-night Ramadan prayers.

The suspects were apprehended in Dorayi Babba, a densely populated community in Gwale Local Government Area, after residents raised alarm over repeated attacks on worshippers returning from Taraweeh prayers.

According to a statement issued by Ibrahim Idris Abdullahi, NSCDC Kano Command spokesperson, said that  the suspects were arrested during a security patrol by officers attached to the Dorayi outpost after reports of hoodlums terrorising the neighbourhood.

Abdullahi said the operatives swiftly moved into the area following distress calls from residents who complained about armed youths snatching mobile phones and other valuables from innocent citizens, particularly during the late-night Taraweeh prayers observed by Muslims during the holy month of Ramadan.

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“Officers of the outpost responded promptly to the disturbance and engaged the hoodlums who were attacking residents with dangerous weapons,” Abdullahi said.

“The suspects were eventually overpowered and apprehended while others fled the scene.”

Those arrested were identified as Yusuf Auwal, 18; Abubakar Abdullahi, 21; Huzaifa Isma’il Aliyu, 27; and Yushau Abubakar, 17. All the suspects are residents of Dorayi Babba.

Security officers recovered a sharp knife and two parcels of marijuana believed to be in the possession of the suspects at the time of their arrest.

The NSCDC spokesman noted that preliminary investigations indicated the suspects were part of a group responsible for a series of attacks targeting residents moving to and from mosques during night prayers.

He added that investigation into the incident has been concluded and the suspects would be charged to court in accordance with the law.

The arrests come amid growing concern among residents over a recent spike in phone snatching and street robberies across some parts of Kano, particularly during Ramadan when many residents stay out late for prayers and social gatherings.

Community leaders in several neighbourhoods in the metropolitan areas of the state have in recent weeks raised alarm about youth gangs who exploit the crowded evening prayer periods to carry out attacks.

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Security agencies have since intensified night patrols around mosques and residential areas to prevent further incidents.

Authorities say the renewed enforcement is part of a broader effort by security agencies in Kano to maintain public safety during Ramadan and reassure residents who observe nightly prayers across the city.

Residents of Dorayi Babba have welcomed the arrests, expressing hope that the action would deter other criminal elements operating in the area.

The NSCDC reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.