Kidnapping: Police Rescue 21 Victims, Recover Arms, N4.8m
In their efforts at combating crime and criminality in the country, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have confirmed rescuing 21 victims of kidnapping and recovering N4.8 million paid as ransom in the month of March 2025.
Also recovered during series of coordinated raids by Police operatives against criminal syndicates in parts of the country are various types of arms and ammunition.
Conducted in Taraba and Kano states, the operations led to the arrest of six suspects involved in kidnapping, armed robbery and unlawful possession of firearms.
A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Monday, said the Police remain determined to dismantle criminal networks endangering public safety nationwide.
He said one of the key operations took place in Taraba State, where officers from the State Command, working with other security agencies, rescued 20 kidnap victims along the Takum/Mararaba road.
According to him, the rescue mission, carried out on March 29, 2025, in Muji town, followed a fierce gunfight between security operatives and the kidnappers.
He said in the heat of the exchanges, the criminals fled the scene, abandoning the victims and their vehicles, adding that two rescued individuals who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical attention.
The Force Spokesperson also said operatives from the Kano State Anti-Kidnapping Squad have arrested the gang responsible for the abduction of Dr Muhammad Bello Yushau on March 8, 2025.
He said; “Following an extensive investigation, police operatives apprehended five suspects-Tukur Lawal (alias Maikudi), Ado Usman, Sanusi Surajo, Habiba Shuaibu, and Ummulkhairi Ibrahim-on March 18 and 19.
“During the operation, authorities recovered a locally made rifle and N4.84 million, believed to be ransom money. The victim was rescued unharmed and reunited with his family”.
ACP Adejobi also disclosed that the Special Tactical Squad (STS), in a separate operation, arrested Kafinta Musa in Taraba for armed robbery, kidnapping, and illegal possession of firearms.
The operatives discovered and seized from the suspect an AK-49 rifle loaded with five rounds of live ammunition.
ACP Adejobi commended the operatives for their bravery and professionalism, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring public safety.
“These successful operations highlight the dedication of the Nigeria Police Force and the support of law-abiding citizens in safeguarding communities and enhancing security,” he said.
He urged the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies to strengthen the fight against crime.
