The Nigeria Police Force has recorded major breakthroughs in its ongoing fight against violent crime, rescuing a kidnapped octogenarian, neutralizing six suspects, arresting 12 others, and recovering a significant cache of arms and stolen vehicles in separate operations across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Jigawa State.
In a press statement released today by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Police confirmed that operatives of the FCT Police Command intercepted a notorious armed robbery and carjacking syndicate operating in the Maitama area of Abuja. Acting on credible intelligence, officers engaged the criminals in a gun battle, leading to the neutralization of one of the most wanted suspects, Abdulmininu Bello a.k.a. Babanle, and the arrest of seven others.
The arrested suspects include two ex-convicts: Ibrahim Muhammad (22), and Isiaka Adamu, along with Abubakar Abdullahi (22), Sarajo Yusuf (20), Sanusi Ali (51), Abubakar Sani, and Abdullahi Isah. Recovered from the scene were four AK-47 rifles, two locally made pistols, a locally fabricated shotgun, 21 live rounds of assorted ammunition, a 2004 Toyota Camry LE, and a red Boxer motorcycle.
In a related development, the Jigawa State Police Command, in collaboration with local security outfits, successfully rescued an 80-year-old woman, Hajiya Hajara, who had been kidnapped from her home in Sarbi Village, Minjibir LGA of Kano State. Intelligence reports indicated that her abductors were attempting to move her through Jigawa State when operatives launched a coordinated offensive near Danzomo and Medi villages.
A fierce gunfight ensued during the rescue operation, resulting in the neutralization of five members of the kidnapping gang and the arrest of five others, including the group’s alleged leader, Yahaya (35). The victim was safely rescued and has since been discharged from the hospital after a medical evaluation. Items recovered from the scene include two AK-47 rifles, one locally fabricated LAR rifle, fourteen rounds of live ammunition, two motorcycles, and two mobile phones.
Commending the operations, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun praised the bravery and tactical precision of the officers involved. He further encouraged citizens to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities in their communities.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property and will intensify its efforts to rid the country of criminal elements,” the statement concluded.