In a significant development in the fight against transnational crime, Saudi authorities have apprehended two women believed to be the wife and mother of Ado Aleru, one of Nigeria’s most notorious bandit leaders. The arrests, which took place in the holy city of Medina, represent a critical step in efforts to dismantle the international support networks fueling violent criminal groups in Nigeria.
According to reports, the women had been living under false identities when Saudi security operatives identified and detained them. Their arrest follows mounting concerns about the cross-border links aiding bandit groups responsible for widespread violence in Nigeria’s northern regions.
Ado Aleru is a wanted figure in Nigeria, alleged to be the mastermind behind numerous violent crimes, including mass kidnappings, attacks on villages, and deadly ambushes, particularly in Zamfara and neighboring states. Despite multiple efforts to capture him, he has remained at large and is considered one of Nigeria’s most elusive criminal figures.
Sources close to the investigation believe the detained women may hold crucial information about Aliero’s current location, financial backers, and operational methods. Their interrogation is expected to yield intelligence that could significantly disrupt his network.
Nigerian security agencies are reportedly working closely with their Saudi counterparts to advance the investigation. The arrests have sparked renewed optimism that international collaboration may turn the tide in the long-running battle against banditry and terrorism in Nigeria.
