The Kebbi State Police Command has dismantled a major agrochemical theft syndicate, arresting five suspects connected to the diversion and illegal sale of herbicides valued at over ₦184 million.

According to a statement by Police Public Relations Officer CSP Nafiu Abubakar, the stolen consignment belonged to Springfield Agro Limited, a Lagos-based agricultural firm. The shipment, comprising 1,925 cartons of Roundup 360XL herbicide, was originally destined for Suleja and Abuja before being illicitly rerouted to Birnin Kebbi.

Following a formal complaint from the company, operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) launched an investigation that led to the arrests and recovery of 1,562 cartons of the diverted herbicide along with ₦4.9 million believed to be proceeds from illegal sales.

The suspects in custody have been identified as Nura Abdullahi (45), Nura Muhammad (50), Bashar Abubakar (45), and Sanusi Bojo (43) — all residents of Birnin Kebbi — along with Aliyu Muhammad (48) from Kashin Zama in Aliero Local Government Area.

The alleged mastermind, a truck driver identified as Alhaji Bala, remains at large. Another suspect, Alhaji Danladi Maitaki (also known as Danbatta), is also being sought by authorities.

Commissioner of Police Bello M. Sani has ordered a discreet investigation into the matter and commended the SCID team for their professionalism. He vowed to ensure the fleeing suspects are apprehended and brought to justice.

The suspects face multiple charges including criminal conspiracy, theft, receiving stolen goods, and money laundering.

This case has raised concerns about the growing trend of commercial cargo theft in Nigeria, particularly targeting high-value agricultural inputs that are essential for the country's farming sector.