Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have successfully rescued four kidnapped Victims in Abia State and Neutralized a Notorious Kidnapper in Nassarawa State.The Force in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, said the feat remain a determined effort to curb the rising menace of kidnapping and other firearm-related crimes.

According to ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on March 9, 2025, at approximately 9:30 AM, the Abia State Police Command received a report of four individuals who had been kidnapped while traveling in a Toyota RAV4 along New Umuahia Road, Obingwa. Acting on credible intelligence, the Command’s tactical team traced the kidnappers to a hideout in a three-bedroom bungalow in Osokwa, Osisioma LGA.

The statement added that the operatives were met with heavy gunfire from the kidnappers but their superior firepower overwhelmed the criminals, resulting in the neutralization of six syndicate members. All four kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed and promptly taken to the Police Hospital for medical evaluation. The operation also led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, six magazines, and thirty-four rounds of live ammunition.

The statement further said that in a simultaneous operation, the Nasarawa State Police Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, neutralized a notorious kidnapper known as Abdullahi, alias “Honor,” in Akwanga on March 14, 2025.The suspect, who had been on the police wanted list for multiple criminal offenses, was intercepted near the Akwanga Central Mosque while attempting to flee on a motorcycle.

When confronted, he attempted to resist arrest by brandishing a firearm, but security operatives acted swiftly, subduing him. A search of his belongings yielded a Beretta pistol and twelve rounds of 9mm live ammunition. One of his accomplices managed to escape with gunshot wounds, and a manhunt is currently underway to apprehend him.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has commended the officers involved for their professionalism and effective collaboration while he reiterated the force ‘commitment to maintaining relentless pressure on criminal elements and issued a stern warning to those involved in kidnapping and gun running to desist or face the full force of the law.