Ex-Nigeria U-20 Winger Sarki Arrested Amid Criminal Investigation

Ex-Nigeria U-20 Winger Sarki Arrested Amid Criminal Investigation

By Niyi Busari 

Rilwanu Haliru Sarki, a winger for Al Ain FC and former Nigeria U-20 international, has reportedly been arrested by Nigerian authorities at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

According to reports, the operation was jointly carried out by the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Nigeria Police Force shortly after the player arrived in the country for his post-season holiday.

Sources said Sarki was apprehended at the airport’s arrival hall before being handed over to police officers by immigration officials.

The arrest is reportedly linked to allegations that the footballer failed to honour several police invitations connected to an ongoing criminal investigation said to have lasted for more than a year.

Reports further claim that efforts are being made through contacts within the immigration and police hierarchy to secure his release. However, authorities have yet to confirm whether any such intervention will affect the case, given the seriousness of the investigation and its reported international dimensions.

It is understood that Sarki may be formally charged in court after the completion of investigations and other legal procedures.

Neither the player nor his representatives have publicly commented on the matter as of the time of filing this report.

The case remains under investigation, with further details expected to emerge in the coming days.