Police Foil Multiple Kidnappings, Arrest Suspects Across Nigeria

…..Officers recover firearms, ammunition, and rescue over 25 victims in coordinated operations.

In a series of successful anti-crime operations, the Nigeria Police Force has thwarted kidnapping attempts, apprehended suspects, and recovered firearms across multiple states, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring security during the festive period.

Katsina State: 20 Victims Rescued in One Day
Police operatives in Katsina State intercepted two separate kidnapping attempts on December 7, 2024. The first occurred at about 7 PM along the Katsina-Magamar Jibia road, where armed bandits attacked a vehicle with 10 passengers. Officers engaged the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to flee. All passengers were rescued unhurt.

Later that evening, at about 8:30 PM, operatives responded to another ambush along the Funtua-Gusau road, where 10 passengers were abducted. After a fierce gunfight, all victims were rescued, and the bandits were overpowered.

Akwa Ibom: Forced Prostitution Ring Busted
On December 4, 2024, police in Akwa Ibom arrested a suspect, Abraham Patrick Francis, who abducted a young woman intending to traffic her for forced prostitution. She was rescued and reunited with her family.

The following day, officers raided a kidnappers’ hideout in Amayam and Ikot Ukpong villages, rescuing two victims and recovering firearms, including a locally fabricated double-barrel gun and live cartridges. Two kidnappers were neutralized during the operation.

Rivers State: Kidnapped Boy Rescued
In Rivers State, a 10-year-old boy, Emmanuel John, was rescued on December 4, 2024, after operatives arrested the suspect, Nwile Bete. Following the suspect’s confession, police located the victim, who was safely reunited with his family.

Taraba State: Kingpin Arrested and Victims Rescued
On December 6, 2024, Taraba police operatives rescued three kidnapped victims after intercepting a gang at Dutsen Mubayu. The operation recovered three AK-47 rifles and 75 rounds of ammunition. The same day, police arrested a notorious kidnapping kingpin, Idris Alhaji Jaoji, and his informant, Jibo Alhaji Mai, both linked to several abductions.

Makurdi: Robbery Syndicate Dismantled
A robbery gang terrorizing the Makurdi-Lafia highway was dismantled by Zone 4 Police Command. The arrest of Terhemba Dabo led to the capture of eight other gang members and the recovery of weapons, military uniforms, and other items.

IGP Promises Heightened Festive Security
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun commended officers for their bravery and assured citizens of intensified security measures during the festive period to safeguard lives and property.