The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening internal security and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians by intensifying efforts to curb kidnapping and related crimes across the country.
In a demonstration of skill, coordination, and determination, the police successfully executed a hostage rescue operation on December 31, 2024, in Kwande Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, resulting in the neutralisation of three kidnappers.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the operation followed a distress call from the Vandiekya Police Divisional Headquarters regarding the kidnapping of one Tor Gajir by armed assailants in Kwande LGA. Upon receiving the information, police operatives swiftly escalated the investigation, tracing the kidnappers’ whereabouts to a suspect, Desmond Ahar, who was apprehended.
During interrogation, Ahar revealed his involvement in the crime and led police officers to the location where the victim was being held in Adikpo, Benue State.
Upon reaching the kidnappers’ den, police operatives encountered a violent confrontation as the suspects engaged them in a gun battle. The police were able to neutralise three of the kidnappers, while others fled with gunshot wounds. The victim was successfully rescued without injury and immediately provided medical care to assess any potential physical or psychological effects from the ordeal. Additionally, police recovered two AK-47 rifles, six loaded magazines, and several rounds of live ammunition. Authorities are now focusing on apprehending the remaining gang members and recovering any additional weapons.
This operation follows another successful rescue mission by the police in Nasarawa State.
On December 28, 2024, operatives discovered an abandoned vehicle along the Keffi-Kaduna Highway in Angwan Wayo Village, which had been suspected of being attacked by kidnappers. Following the trail, officers located two hostages who were unharmed during their rescue. Efforts are ongoing to capture the fleeing criminals involved in the kidnapping
Further demonstrating the ongoing efforts to combat crime, on January 7, 2025, Bayelsa State Police Command intercepted a suspect, Usman Mohammed, traveling to Rivers State. A thorough search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a variety of weapons, including an AK-47 rifle, a Type 09 AR, and several magazines and rounds of ammunition. Mohammed was arrested, and the investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has praised the police operatives for their brave and effective actions in these operations, underscoring the importance of maintaining the momentum in the fight against terrorism and violent crime. IGP Egbetokun commended the officers’ dedication to safeguarding communities across Nigeria and encouraged citizens to stay vigilant and collaborate with law enforcement to enhance public safety.