Ex-Katsina Governor's Aide Arrested for Kidnapping Links

Nuru Garwa, the former special adviser on community development to Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda, was arrested on May 24, 2023, for alleged links to a kidnapping syndicate operating in Katsina State. The arrest followed an investigation into the abduction of an eight-year-old boy on May 13, 2023, who was later returned home after his family negotiated a ransom initially set at N50 million, which was reduced to N17 million and eventually paid.

Security experts disclosed that the family contacted the violent crime response unit in Katsina, prompting a discreet investigation. Preliminary investigations led to the arrest of six suspects on May 23, 2023, and further inquiries implicated Garwa, who reportedly provided intelligence that led to the operation.

During a search of his residence, authorities recovered N7.5 million in cash, believed to be part of the ransom, concealed in a Ghana must-go bag, along with a motorcycle allegedly used by the gang. Garwa is currently in custody as investigations continue to determine the full extent of his involvement and identify possible accomplices.