Police Rescue 11 Kidnap Victims, Arrest Suspects, Recover Weapons

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have rescued 11 kidnapped victims in Katsina State and arrested two suspected kidnappers in Delta State, recovering a large cache of arms and ammunition in the process.

According to a statement released on Friday, June 13, 2025, by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the successful operations were carried out by the Police in collaboration with other security agencies, as part of intensified efforts to tackle insecurity across the country.

In Katsina State, the rescue operation took place on June 8 along the Danmusa–Mara Dangeza village road in Danmusa Local Government Area. A joint task force comprising Police operatives and personnel from sister security agencies intercepted a group of armed bandits attempting to abduct travelers. A fierce gun battle ensued, during which the criminals were overwhelmed and forced to flee with gunshot wounds. Eleven victims were safely rescued, and no casualties were reported among the security forces.

Meanwhile, in Delta State, officers attached to the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended a suspected kidnap kingpin identified as Abubakar Hassan, aged 30. The suspect reportedly confessed to leading a kidnapping syndicate operating across Delta, Rivers, Imo, and Enugu States.

Following his confession, police operatives were led to a forest hideout in Ozoro, where they recovered two AK-47 rifles, four magazines, and 32 rounds of live ammunition. The operation is believed to be connected to a prior arrest of three members of the same gang.

In a separate incident, officers of the Safer Highway Patrol arrested one Obi Ezekiel, 38, during a routine stop-and-search along the Ughelli road. A locally fabricated revolver, a pump-action single-barrel rifle, and 15 rounds of live cartridges were discovered hidden in the vehicle.

Commending the efforts of the officers involved, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, praised their bravery and professionalism. He urged all police commands to sustain the momentum and intensify efforts in the war against violent crimes.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to ensuring that there is no safe haven for criminals within the borders of our dear nation,” the IGP stated.

The Force reiterated its appeal to the public to support law enforcement efforts by providing timely and actionable information to aid in ongoing operations.