The Nigeria Police Force has recorded major breakthroughs in the fight against violent crime, with the rescue of an 80-year-old kidnap victim and the arrest of multiple suspects in coordinated operations across the country.
In Abuja, operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command dismantled a notorious armed robbery and carjacking syndicate in a well-coordinated intelligence-driven operation. The syndicate, known for a string of high-profile robberies in the capital, was intercepted while planning an attack in Maitama.
A fierce gun duel ensued after the criminals opened fire on sighting the operatives. One of the gang’s most wanted leaders, Abdulmininu Bello, also known as “Babanle”, was neutralized during the encounter. Seven other suspects were arrested on the scene, including two ex-convicts.
The arrested suspects are: Ibrahim Muhammad (22), Abubakar Abdullahi (22), Sarajo Yusuf (20), Sanusi Ali (51), Abubakar Sani, Isiaka Adamu (ex-convict), and Abdullahi Isah.
Items recovered at the scene include four AK-47 rifles, two locally made pistols, 21 rounds of live ammunition, one locally made shotgun, a 2004 Toyota Camry LE, and a red Boxer motorcycle.
Meanwhile, in Jigawa State, police operatives rescued an 80-year-old woman, Hajiya Hajara, who had been kidnapped from Sarbi Village in Minjibir LGA of Kano State. Intelligence revealed that the abductors, numbering about 12, were attempting to escape through Jigawa State.
Police teams, in collaboration with local security outfits, stormed the suspects’ hideouts between Danzomo and Medi villages. A gun battle ensued, during which five members of the gang were neutralized. Five others, including the gang’s kingpin identified as Yahaya (35), were arrested.
The victim was rescued unharmed and taken to hospital for medical assessment before being discharged.
Items recovered from the scene include two AK-47 rifles, one locally fabricated LAR rifle, 14 rounds of live ammunition, two motorcycles, and two mobile phones.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their bravery and swift response. He urged the public to remain vigilant and continue to support law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities.
He reaffirmed the Police Force’s unwavering commitment to securing lives and property and tackling threats to national security across Nigeria.
