Saudi Arabia Nabs Wife, Mother of Nigerian Bandit Kingpin Ado Aliero

The wife and mother of notorious Nigerian bandit leader, Ado Aliero, have reportedly been arrested in Medina, Saudi Arabia, in a significant breakthrough against Nigeria’s armed groups. The women were apprehended during an intelligence-led operation, allegedly living under false identities, and are believed to be connected to a network supporting insurgents in Nigeria’s Northwest.

Aliero, a key figure behind numerous kidnappings and violent assaults in Zamfara and surrounding Nigerian states, remains a top target on Nigeria’s most wanted list. His extensive influence is suspected to be bolstered by both local and international ties, fueling concerns about the financial backing and reach of armed factions in the region.

Nigerian security agencies are now working closely with Saudi officials as the investigation unfolds. While specific details regarding the women’s identities or their exact involvement have not been released, sources indicate they may possess crucial intelligence concerning Aliero’s whereabouts and financial dealings.

This arrest is seen as a potentially pivotal step in efforts to dismantle the leadership of terror groups destabilizing parts of northern Nigeria.

Ado Aliero was among 97 terror suspects publicly declared wanted by Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters in March 2024. The comprehensive list included individuals accused of terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping, and other violent crimes, with 43 of the suspects sought in the northwest alone.

In a bid to curb the escalating violence and insecurity, the Defence Headquarters had previously offered bounties on several suspects, including those thought to be linked to Aliero.