JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
Daud Olatunji
An alleged associate of notorious bandit kingpin Kachalla Maha allegedly gave security agents details of the group’s operations, including how it was used to procure groceries, run errands and deliver ₦1 million to a man in Matazu, Katsina State.
The suspect, identified as Nura Bakasati, was arrested in Sayaya, Matazu Local Government Area, for his alleged links to the criminal network.
During interrogation in Hausa, Bakasati allegedly revealed details of his relationship with a man identified as Muhammadu, who he said gave him cattle to herd and later used him for various errands.
His account also covered an operation in Sayaya during which seven people were killed around the time of Eid, although his precise role in the killings remains a question for investigators.
Bakasati reportedly said his association with Muhammadu began after he was given cattle to raise.
He said some of the cattle were later stolen, after which Muhammadu gave him more animals.
According to him, he eventually returned the cattle and was ordered to sell them and bring back the proceeds.
He said he continued to have contact with Muhammadu after the cattle were sold, although he said his subsequent activities largely involved going to the farm and running errands.
Bakasati reportedly told investigators that, shortly before the fatal accident in Sayaya, Muhammadu had ordered him to look for people who could work on a farm.
He said he went to Sayaya but informed Muhammadu that there were few people available.
“I went and told him, ‘Muhammadu, there are not many people in Sayaya now,’” he reported.
Bakasati said that despite knowing that people might not accept the offer, agricultural activities continued around Rini.
He reportedly identified several people who were present with him, including Ali, Mani, Idi Bango and Kawu Audu.
According to his account, some men then moved towards Sayaya, after which those on the outskirts heard gunshots.
“We heard shots and they came in,” he said.
He added that he and others fled after the shooting stopped.
“They would attack anyone they found”
The suspect allegedly gave investigators a more detailed account of how the group operated.
Muhammadu had reportedly given him instructions about two days before the operation.
According to him, the alleged pattern was that when people refused to work or cooperate, group members subsequently moved to the area.
He reportedly said, “They would go there, and whoever they found, depending on the situation, they would attack. Whoever they managed to catch, they would shoot.”
The allegation, however, remains under investigation, and Bakasati’s account alone does not establish who ordered or carried out the killings.
Bakasati also allegedly admitted to regularly purchasing supplies for Muhammadu.
He reportedly said he purchased spaghetti, cooking oil and soft drinks, among other items, when asked to do so.
He allegedly named two other men, identified as Shagon Tuwo and Dangwal, as people who helped procure supplies for the group.
According to him, Dangwal was from Farin Tafki and was also involved in purchasing groceries for the alleged network.
Another major revelation during the interrogation was an alleged cash delivery of ₦1 million to a man identified as Isiyaka in Matazu.
Bakasati initially denied having personally transferred money for Muhammadu.
However, he reportedly told investigators that on one occasion Muhammadu gave money to Dangwal for safekeeping and later instructed him and another man, identified as Aminu Farin Tafki, to collect and hand it over.
“Dangwal came and collected the money for us. We went to take it to Isiyaka,” he reported.
When asked about the amount, Bakasati reportedly said it was ₦1 million.
He reportedly identified Isiyaka as a trader who dealt in motorcycle spare parts in Matazu and said the money was handed over to him personally.
However, Bakasati said he did not know what the money was intended for.
“Honestly, we just knew it was given to us to deliver. We were told to bring it to him,” he reportedly said.
The suspect also confirmed that the birth occurred before the murders.
The revelations are significant because Maha’s group has been linked to attacks and kidnappings in parts of Katsina state.
The network has also been linked in reports to the kidnapping of retired general Rabe Abubakar and his wife. The retired military officer reportedly died while in captivity.
Bakasati’s arrest and interrogation could therefore provide investigators with clues to the alleged logistical and financial support structures behind the criminal network.
However, the allegations made during the interrogation require independent verification, including establishing the identity and role of the named individuals, the purpose of the alleged ₦1 million transaction and the circumstances surrounding the deaths of seven people in Sayaya.
At the time of filing this report, authorities had yet to publicly announce the outcome of their investigation into Bakasati’s allegations.
‘Want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need advertising for a product, service or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Please donate any amount HERE
