Security operatives have arrested two suspected suppliers of fuel allegedly meant for bandits operating in neighbouring areas of Bauchi State.
The suspects were apprehended during a stop-and-search operation along the Kashere–Futuk Road in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State.
According to information shared by security analyst, Zagazola Makama, the arrest was made at about 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday following intelligence indicating that bandits terrorising parts of Bauchi State were sourcing fuel from Gombe.
Makama disclosed that operatives intercepted a red-tinted Golf 3 vehicle with registration number GME 221 XA, loaded with 29 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
However, the driver of the vehicle, identified as 20-year-old Aliyu Usman from Futuk Village in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State, reportedly fled the scene and escaped during the operation.
Two passengers in the vehicle, Bello Abdullahi, 52, and Sulaiman Musa, 40, both from Futuk Village, were arrested at the scene.
The suspects reportedly told security operatives that the fuel had been purchased in Billiri, Gombe State.
Authorities said the vehicle and the 29 jerrycans of fuel have been impounded as exhibits while investigations continue to determine the suspects’ involvement in supplying fuel to criminal elements.
Security agencies also said efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing driver and uncover other members of the suspected supply network.
