Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have arrested two suspected kidnappers and rescued seven of their victims in Niger state.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, who disclosed this late on Sunday, said the arrest of the kidnappers and other criminals, as well as he recovery of arms and ammunition across the country followed a potent combination of human intelligence and meticulously coordinated operations.
According to him, following the kidnap of seven persons by a group of suspected kidnappers who invaded Tungan-Boka and Masaha villages of Mashegu LGA of Niger State, operatives of the state Police command in collaboration with local security teams, mobilized for a rescue operation, and trailed the suspected kidnappers to a forest within Tungan-Boka village where the kidnappers were engaged in a gun duel. In the ensuing duel, the kidnappers were overpowered, and the seven kidnapped persons were rescued unhurt.
Similarly, in Plateau State, acting on credible intelligence, Police operatives attached to the state command raided a criminal hideout along Bauchi Road in Jos North Local Government Area. An abandoned grey Golf Wagon was recovered. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of 500 rounds of 7.65mm ammunition. These recoveries are linked to an ongoing investigation into a culpable homicide case reported on May 3, 2025, where an unidentified individual was killed. Efforts are being intensified to locate and arrest the perpetrators of these acts.
In another development in Taraba state, police operatives attached to the state command acting on credible intelligence trailed a gang of suspected kidnappers. Upon confrontation, one of the suspects identified as Lookman Tanko, was arrested while 1 AK-47 rifle, 1 pump-action rifle, and one long gun were recovered from him.
Furthermore, detectives from the FID IRT successfully arrested one Peter Apai, a
45-year-old male from Mubai District, Ardo Kola LGA, Taraba State, following credible intelligence regarding kidnappers and illegal possession of arms. During the operation, 1 AK-47 rifle, one pump-action shotgun, and 1 AK-47 magazine were recovered from the suspect.
Adejobi said both suspects are in custody undergoing investigation and will be charged to court soon.
While commending the bravery, dedication and commitment to duty of the officers and men involved in these successful operations, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, charged them to be resolute in the destruction of criminal syndicates operating across the country.
He further urged citizens to provide relevant information that could assist in these ongoing investigations, as the collaborative efforts of the police and the public are absolutely crucial in ensuring the safety and security of our communities.
