… Arrests six suspects, seizes arms, ammunition
The Nigeria Police Force has intensified its crackdown on criminal activities, successfully rescuing 21 kidnapped victims and recovering N4.8 million in ransom money, alongside arms and ammunition, in a series of nationwide operations.
In a statement released by the Force Headquarters in Abuja on March 31, 2025, the police detailed coordinated operations that led to significant breakthroughs in the fight against kidnapping, banditry, and arms proliferation.
One of the most notable operations took place in Taraba State on March 29, 2025. Police operatives, in collaboration with other security agencies, intercepted a group of kidnappers along the Takum/Mararaba road, engaging them in a gun battle at Muji Town. The confrontation resulted in the successful rescue of 20 kidnapped victims and the recovery of abandoned vehicles at the scene. Two of the rescued individuals who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical care.
Similarly, in Kano State, a high-profile abduction case involving Dr. Muhammad Bello Yushau led to an extensive investigation. Acting on technical intelligence, police operatives arrested five suspects—Tukur Lawal (alias Maikudi), Ado Usman, Sanusi Surajo, Habiba Shuaibu, and Ummulkhairi Ibrahim—on March 18 and 19, 2025. The operatives recovered a locally made rifle and N4,840,000 in cash, believed to be ransom money. Dr. Yushau was safely rescued and reunited with his family.
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In a separate operation, the Special Tactical Squad (STS), acting on intelligence, apprehended Kafinta Musa in Taraba State for alleged involvement in armed robbery, kidnapping, and illegal possession of firearms. An AK-49 rifle with five rounds of live ammunition was recovered from the suspect. Investigations are ongoing to track down his accomplices.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism in executing these operations. He urged the public to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information to support law enforcement efforts.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to dismantling criminal networks across Nigeria, emphasizing that these recent successes reflect their relentless determination to safeguard lives and property.