The Zamfara state government says following the raid by security operatives on the residences of former governor Bello Muhammad on Friday, over 40 vehicles have been recovered.
ASHENEWS earlier reported here that operatives of security agencies had raided and seized exotic cars allegedly retained by the former governor from his two residences in Gusau and his home town, Maradun.
This online platform also reported here that the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) condemned the raids, and accused the state governor, Dauda Lawal of witch-hunt.
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However, in a swift reaction, Lawal, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity), Suleiman Idris, Wednesday evening, said government’s stolen property were recovered during the operation.
“The Zamfara State Government has cleared the air on the operation of the Nigeria Police Force that led to the recovery of vehicles looted by the former State Governor, Bello Mohammaed Matawalle.
“In the early hours of Friday, The Nigeria Police Force stormed the residence of the former Governor, where over 40 vehicles were impounded.
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“The Police acted on a court order and a search warrant was obtained for the operation. Recall that the Zamfara State Government communicated officially to former Governor Bello Matawalle and his Deputy to return all the missing vehicles within five (5) working days.
“We also lodged an official complaint with the Police on overriding public interest on wasteful looting of valuables including official vehicles.
“Consequently, the Police sought a search warrant which was duly given by the court and hence raided Matawalle’s residence in Gusau, Maradun Local Government, and another unidentified hideout.
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“Over 40 vehicles were recovered including Three bulletproof vehicles and Eight SUVs.
“We want to reaffirm our commitment to recover all that belongs to the people. Our common resolve is to rescue and rebuild Zamfara. Recovering the proceeds of crime and public assets is a critical part of our rescue mission.
“We want to call on the people of Zamfara to remain calm as we continue to record massive improvements in the areas of security and the lingering water scarcity in the state,” the statement reads.
