Cleric Arrested for Allegedly Assisting Bandits

A 75-year-old cleric accused of supporting bandits with spiritual rituals has been taken into custody.

The apprehension was carried out by a local community watch group in Zamfara State.

According to security expert Zagazola Makama, the arrest, reported on December 22, 2024, followed intelligence that linked the cleric to prayers meant to bolster criminal activities.

After the arrest, the vigilante group transferred the individual to security authorities for additional inquiries.

The suspect admitted to providing “spiritual fortification” for bandit leaders, including blessing their weapons and praying for their successful operations.