The Nigeria Police Force has made significant strides in combating kidnapping and crime, with several successful operations in recent months. On March 11, 2025, operatives from the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) foiled an ambush set by armed kidnappers at Oshara Ganden, a boundary area between Kogi and Edo States, arresting eight individuals and recovering a cache of weapons.
The arrested suspects, identified as Tukur Salisu, Sani Abubakar, Mamud Sani, Umar Abdullahi, Salisu Mohammed, Salisu Usman, Bashir Audu, and Jibril Haruna, were found in possession of one AK-47 rifle, one Israeli pump action rifle, two pump action rifles, a single barrel shotgun, and two operational motorcycles.
In a separate operation on January 27, 2025, IRT operatives arrested Yakubu Musa and Usman Musa, both from Kaduna State, for their involvement in kidnappings and cattle rustling. Three AK-47 rifles and 19 rounds of live ammunition were recovered during their arrest.Additionally, on January 21, 2025, three suspects – Abubakar Lawan, Isiaku Abdullahi, and Abbas Maisaude – were apprehended for criminal conspiracy, unlawful possession of firearms, and kidnapping. One AK-49 rifle, two AK-47 rifles, and 28 rounds of live ammunition were recovered from them.
These successful operations demonstrate the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to enhancing internal security and combating criminal activities. The Force has urged citizens to support the police by providing timely and accurate information, emphasizing that cooperation is vital in the fight against crime.The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has commended the operatives for their bravery and dedication, stressing the importance of continued vigilance and proactive measures in maintaining law and order.
