TheCable

The Zamfara government says 10 suspects have been arrested over the murder of Abubakar Mada, an Islamic cleric, in  Mada town, Gusau LGA of the state.

In a statement on Wednesday, Sulaiman Idris, spokesperson to Dauda Lawal, governor of Zamfara, said security operatives have apprehended the suspects involved in the murder of Mada.

“The government has received the heart-rending news of the extra judicial killing of Sheikh Abubakar Hassan Mada in Mada town. It is indeed an unfortunate incident that could have been prevented,” NAN quoted Idris as saying.

“The security operatives have successfully apprehended all suspected vigilantes behind this heinous crime.

“The state government has taken the matter seriously and with all commitment to ensuring that the culprits of the unfortunate incident were brought to book.

“Every effort will be put in place to ensure justice is served without compromise.”

Idris said the suspects are not in any way related to the state community protection guards (CPG).

“The community protection guards, a local community-based security outfit, was established to protect communities and not terrorise people in the state,” he said.

“This clarification is expected to put to rest the confusion that arose over the identity of the arrested culprits behind the murder of Sheikh Abubakar Mada.

“We want to inform the public that the state community protection guards has a modus operandi which prevents them from engaging in an operation without the guidance of relevant security operatives.”

The governor’s spokesperson said a preliminary investigation by the police has revealed that one of those arrested was a former student of the murdered cleric.

“This information can help the authorities better understand the situation and take appropriate actions,” Idris said.

“The state government will continue to update the public on the outcome of the police investigation.

“During this trying time, we sympathise with Sheikh Abubakar Hassan Mada’s family and the entire community. May his soul rest in peace.”