By Deborah Nnamdi
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have rescued five kidnapped victims, dismantled a notorious kidnapping syndicate, and recovered a cache of arms and ammunition in separate operations across Kebbi and Abia States.
The development was confirmed on Tuesday by Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Muyiwa Adejobi, in an official statement.
“In line with ongoing efforts to strengthen internal security and protect lives and property, the Nigeria Police Force has recorded notable breakthroughs in recent anti-crime operations,” the statement read.
In Kebbi, on August 15, officers on routine patrol near Dankade Village in Ribah District engaged a group of armed bandits in a gun battle. Two victims, earlier abducted on August 9 while grazing cattle in Gairi Forest, Zamfara State, were successfully rescued during the operation.
In a separate operation in Abia State, police acting on credible intelligence stormed a kidnapper’s hideout in Umuiku Obete Village, Ukwa West LGA. The gang, notorious for terrorising commuters along Umuozo Village and Uratta Road, off Port Harcourt Road, engaged operatives in a firefight, resulting in the neutralisation of five members.
A search of the scene led to the recovery of 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, one polo charm, and a double-barreled long gun. Authorities say follow-up operations are underway to track down fleeing gang members.
Commending the officers involved, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun praised their courage and urged continued vigilance in the fight against criminal elements nationwide. He reaffirmed the NPF’s commitment to safeguarding national security and upholding law and order.
