Security agents have arrested the Village Head of Walawa community in Kankiya Local Government Area of Katsina State for allegedly acting as an informant to armed bandits.
The suspect, Salisu Abdullahi, reportedly confessed to helping bandits kidnap 17 people and steal cows in Walawa. He also named two alleged accomplices, Alkali Tanimu and Manu, both from the nearby Jobawa community.
Sources revealed that Abdullahi admitted involvement in another attack in Mai Danko, where 16 people and cattle were taken by bandits.
According to the suspect, the first kidnapping operation brought in ₦12 million in ransom, and he received ₦50,000 for his part.
Security officials said Abdullahi is currently in custody and undergoing investigations to identify other possible collaborators in the criminal activities.
Banditry remains a major security challenge in Katsina and other parts of northern Nigeria, with kidnappings and cattle rustling causing fear and disruption to rural communities.