Kano Police have arrested two suspected thugs, Linga and Guchi, after viral TikTok and Facebook videos showed them inciting violence and brandishing weapons.
The Kano State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on social media–induced thuggery with the arrest of two suspected gang members notorious for flaunting weapons online.
The suspects, identified as Mohammed Isma’il, popularly known as Linga, and his accomplice, Sani Abdulsalam, alias Guchi, were apprehended after a targeted intelligence operation.
Police operatives tracked the duo to Dala Quarters, following weeks of surveillance prompted by disturbing videos where they allegedly incited violence, mobilised groups of young men, and openly brandished dangerous weapons.
These videos, which quickly went viral on TikTok, Facebook and other social platforms, reportedly generated fear among residents who worried that such activities could escalate into gang clashes within the city.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday, August 27, by the Kano State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Haruna Kiyawa, the arrests were carried out without incident.
Recovered from the suspects at the scene were a sword and two heavy clubs — evidence authorities say confirmed their readiness to perpetuate acts of violence.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, who ordered the arrests, directed investigators to conduct a thorough probe into the suspects’ activities, networks, and possible sponsors.
He warned that the police would take decisive action against anyone using social media to encourage lawlessness, threaten public peace, or glamorise criminal behaviour.
“The Command is committed to ensuring that Kano remains a safe and peaceful state. We will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute individuals or groups who take to social media to glorify thuggery or criminality.
“Parents and guardians are strongly advised to monitor their wards and caution them against joining such harmful ventures,” the CP was quoted as saying.
Authorities emphasised that this action forms part of a broader security strategy aimed at curbing the rise of youth gangs and their use of digital platforms to spread fear.
Police also assured residents that more surveillance operations are underway to identify and neutralise similar threats across the state.
The Command praised members of the public whose timely intelligence led to the successful operation.
Citizens were further urged to remain vigilant, provide credible information, and work hand in hand with law enforcement agencies to maintain the stability and safety of their communities.
With the arrests of Linga and Guchi, the Police Command reiterated its zero-tolerance stance toward violent gangs, stressing that the fight against crime in Kano will be pursued relentlessly until peace and order are fully secured.