Abandoned torch exposes suspected robber in Katsina

A small torch allegedly left behind by a suspect, Nura Labaran, after a robbery operation in Katsina State, has led to his arrest and arraignment for armed robbery.

The 22-year-old resident of Gago village in Dutsinma Local Government Area of the state, who is currently on bail, was also found in possession of a sheep suspected to have been stolen.

Labaran is facing criminal charges in line with provisions of Section 1(2) (a)(b) of the Robbery and Firearms Special Provision Act, Cap 11, LFN, 2004 and Section 319 of the Penal Code.

According to the police, one Lawal Abdul, who resides behind the Isa Kaita College of Education, Dutsinma, Katsina State, lodged a complaint that an unknown man recently attacked him in his house with a machete and stick.

Abdul reportedly said his attacker, who held a torch during the incident, allegedly inflicted injuries on his head and hands, after which his attacker made away with his two phones valued at N12,000 but left behind the torch as he rushed out.

It was learnt that the police were able to trace the suspect after retrieving the torchleft behind by the attacker at the scene of the crime.

Labaran was said to have owned up when confronted with the torch by the police.

A sheep was also allegedly found with Labaran, who was unable to give a convincing explanation on how he came about the animal.

The police prosecutor, Inspector Sani Ado, told a Katsina Senior Magistrate Court where Labaran was arraigned for cognizance on Tuesday and that investigation into the case was ongoing.

The presiding magistrate, Hajiya Dikko, adjourned the case till February 11, 2019, for mention.

(PUNCH)