Gusau, June 10, 2023 -The new administration in Zamfara State has recovered over 40 official vehicles from former Gov. Bello Matawalle.
The properties were recovered from the houses of the former governor in Gusau, the state capital, and Maradun town by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and men of the Nigerian Police Force
A statement by Suleiman Idris, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Zamfara Governor, said the government’s properties were recovered during an operation.
He said the over 40 vehicles included three bullet-proof vehicles and eight SUVs which were recovered during the operation done in execution of a court order and a search warrant earlier obtained by the government.
“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 Mohammamed Matawalle.
“In the early hours of Friday, the Nigeria Police Force stormed the residence of the former Governor where over 40 vehicles were impounded.
“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.
“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 said. (GBN)
