The Nigeria Police Force has intensified efforts to combat kidnapping nationwide, resulting in the successful rescue of multiple hostages and the neutralization of three kidnappers in Benue State.
The Force, in a statement issued by its spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed that the operations, which took place between December 2024 and January 2025, also led to the recovery of arms and ammunition in different states.
In a daring rescue operation on December 31, 2024, police operatives from the Vandiekya Divisional Headquarters in Benue State responded swiftly to a distress call about the abduction of one Tor Gajir in Kwande Local Government Area. Acting on intelligence, the operatives tracked a suspect, Desmond Ahar, who later confessed to being part of the kidnap syndicate. He subsequently led the police to the kidnappers’ hideout in Adikpo, where a gun battle ensued.
Three kidnappers were neutralized during the encounter, while others fled with injuries. The victim was rescued unharmed, and 2 AK-47 rifles along with 6 loaded magazines were recovered.
Meanwhile, in a separate operation in Nasarawa State on December 28, 2024, police operatives discovered an abandoned Sienna vehicle along the Keffi-Kaduna Highway in Angwan Wayo Village, following reports of a suspected kidnapping. The operatives tracked down two hostages and rescued them unhurt. Efforts to apprehend the fleeing kidnappers are ongoing.
In a related development, on January 7, 2025, officers of the Bayelsa State Police Command intercepted a suspect, Usman Mohammed, on his way to Rivers State. A search of his vehicle revealed a cache of arms, including 1 AK-47 rifle, 1 Type 09 AR, 2 AK-47 magazines, 2 Type 09 AR magazines, and 120 rounds of ammunition. The suspect was taken into custody, and investigations are underway.
Commending the officers for their bravery and swift response, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, praised the operational successes recorded in Benue, Nasarawa, and Bayelsa states. He urged the operatives to sustain their efforts in maintaining internal security across the nation. The IGP also called on citizens to remain vigilant and collaborate with the police by providing timely information to enhance public safety.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property while assuring Nigerians of continued proactive measures against crimes.
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By [Newspaper Name] Correspondent
