Police operatives rescued five kidnap victims and killed five suspected kidnappers in Kebbi and Abia States, recovering arms and ammunition during coordinated security operations.
The Nigeria Police Force has freed five kidnapped victims and eliminated five suspected kidnappers during separate security operations in Kebbi and Abia States.
Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announced this on Tuesday, noting that the successes resulted from coordinated efforts involving police officers, other security agencies, and local vigilantes.
Operations in Kebbi State
Three victims—Muhammad Nasamu Namata (25), Gide Namata (20), and Hamidu Alhaji Namani (35)—were abducted on July 27 from Sangara Village, Shanga Local Government Area. They were rescued unharmed after police tracked the kidnappers to Shanga Hills and engaged them in a gun battle, forcing the criminals to retreat with injuries.
Two other victims, Tukur Bello (26) and Isyaka Abubakar (25), were rescued on August 15 during a routine patrol in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area. They had been kidnapped on August 9 while grazing cattle in Gairi Forest, Zamfara State. Both have since been reunited with their families.
Operation in Abia State
Based on credible intelligence, security operatives raided a kidnappers’ hideout in Umuiku Obete Village, Ukwa West Local Government Area, Abia State.
The suspects, who had been terrorizing residents and motorists along Umuozo Village and Uratta Road, engaged the police in a gun battle but were overpowered. Five members of the gang were killed during the encounter.
Recovered items from the hideout included six AK-47 rifles, 335 rounds of live ammunition, 14 magazines, five mobile phones, three cutlasses, five operational jackets, an axe, a pair of boots, charms, and a double-barrel gun.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, applauded the officers for their bravery and urged them to maintain the momentum in tackling criminal activities nationwide.
