Police arrest ‘fake okada rider’ over alleged kidnapping, rape, robbery in Bauchi

The Bauchi State Police Command has apprehended a 53-year-old individual, identified as Gambo Hassan, also known by the pseudonym "Anahaka," on charges of involvement in kidnapping, rape, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of an offensive weapon. The arrest took place on September 11, 2026, around 8:45 p.m. in the Bauchi metropolis, following a routine patrol by the 'B' Division, GRA.

Preliminary investigations suggested that Hassan had been impersonating a commercial motorcyclist during the evening to target passengers, particularly women. During his arrest, the suspect was found riding a Bajaj motorcycle with the registration number BAU 150G, wearing a black face mask and fez cap, and in possession of a sharp knife.

Hassan confessed to the police during interrogation and led investigators to 15 women who had initially been identified as his alleged victims. However, the number of alleged victims later expanded to 35 women. Following Hassan's arrest, detectives executed a search warrant at his residence and recovered numerous items suspected to be proceeds of crime.

These items included 15 mobile phones, three power banks, six women’s wristwatches, six native caps, five bundles of women’s wrappers, three hijabs, and ₦425,435 in cash. The suspect and the recovered items were subsequently transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Bauchi, for further investigation and potential prosecution.

Commissioner of Police Sani-Omolori Aliyu commended the detectives for their vigilance and professionalism, promising continued efforts to crack down on criminal activities in the area. The police spokesperson, SP Nafiu Habib, issued a statement urging members of the public, particularly any individuals who might have been victims of Hassan, to come forward with any relevant information to aid in the ongoing investigation.