The Katsina State Government has confirmed that a former Senior Special Assistant on Community Development, Nura Garwa, is under investigation for alleged involvement in a kidnapping syndicate operating in the state.

Garwa is among the suspects recently paraded by the Katsina State Police Command over the alleged abduction of an eight-year-old boy at Sardauna Estate in Katsina metropolis.

According to the state Commissioner for Information and Culture, Salisu Zango, the suspect had earlier been suspended from office over alleged diversion of empowerment materials meant for communities in Batsari Local Government Area.

The government said Garwa was suspended before he later attempted to contest a seat in the Katsina State House of Assembly.

In its statement, the government linked him to activities of a suspected criminal network, noting that his suspension predated his political ambition.

Governor Dikko Radda described the development as unfortunate, especially given the suspect’s previous position in public service, while commending security agencies for their efforts in tackling kidnapping in the state.

The government also urged residents to support security agencies with credible information to help curb rising insecurity in the area.