Security operatives in Kaduna State have apprehended a man with over ₦25 million in cash, allegedly intended for vote-buying in the ongoing by-elections.
Police spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Saturday, identifying the suspect as Shehu Patangi. He was reportedly arrested at a popular hotel along Turunku Road in Kaduna metropolis in the early hours of the day.
According to Hassan, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect was coordinating the distribution of funds meant to influence voters in the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency bye-election. A total of ₦25.96 million was recovered from him.
The police said the suspect confessed to the crime during interrogation and pleaded for leniency.
Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, commended security agencies for their swift collaboration in the operation. He warned that anyone caught attempting to compromise the electoral process, regardless of status, would face the full weight of the law.
Muhammad further assured residents of the command’s readiness to provide maximum security before, during, and after the elections. He urged voters to come out peacefully and exercise their civic rights without fear or intimidation.
