Security operatives in Sokoto State have arrested Sirajo Ahmad Dan Liman, the Deputy Chief Imam of the Central Jumu’ah Mosque in Kangiye, over allegations of collaborating with armed bandits.
According to reports, Dan Liman is accused of supplying motorcycles and other essential items to criminal gangs operating along the Tangaza-Niger Republic border axis.
Intelligence investigations reportedly linked Dan Liman to these gangs, which are notorious for kidnappings, cattle rustling, and cross-border smuggling.
During the arrest, security officials uncovered ₦47 million in his bank account, suspected to be proceeds from his dealings with the bandits.
However, the Sokoto State Police Command has refuted claims that Dan Liman is a clergyman and that the alleged amount was found in his account.
Dan Liman holds significant positions beyond his religious role, serving as the ward chairman for a political party in Atakwanyo and secretary of the forum of political party chairmen in Gwadabawa Local Government Area.
Authorities say the arrest is part of a broader crackdown on financial and logistical networks supporting bandit groups.