In a series of successful operations across three states, the Nigeria Police Force has rescued 29 kidnapped victims and arrested three suspected kidnappers, reinforcing efforts to tackle insecurity nationwide.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement issued Monday, said the operations were conducted under the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, as part of strategic moves to strengthen internal security and restore citizens’ confidence.
In Kogi State, police officers on patrol foiled a kidnap attempt along the Obajana–Oshokoshoko road on June 23.
The operatives engaged the suspected kidnappers in a gun battle and successfully rescued 24 passengers who were travelling in three commercial vehicles.
“The swift and brave action of our men saved innocent lives and disrupted the plans of these criminal elements,” Adejobi said.
In a separate incident a day earlier, officers from the Okene Division intercepted a suspicious Nissan vehicle en route to Auchi.
The driver abandoned the car and fled into the bush. Upon searching the vehicle, police recovered an AK-47 rifle, 28 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, a G3 magazine, phone accessories, and personal belongings.
“Efforts are ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing suspect,” the police spokesperson added.
In Lagos State, operatives from the Morogbo Division responded to an abduction report in the Ikoga area. The victim, a 20-year-old identified as Kehinde, was reportedly lured via WhatsApp and kidnapped. His captors demanded a ransom of ₦500,000 from his family. Following intelligence gathering, three suspects — Celestine Okeke (28), Michael Okonkwo (25), and Kehinde Oladun (30) — were arrested and the victim was rescued unharmed.
A resident who witnessed the rescue commended the police for their prompt response. “We were really worried, but the police acted quickly and brought the boy back safely. It was a relief for everyone in the community,” the resident said.
Meanwhile, in Katsina State, police officers thwarted an attempted kidnapping in Mazare village. The attackers fled after a gun duel with security operatives, resulting in the rescue of four hostages, all unharmed.
Reacting to the successes, the Inspector-General of Police lauded the officers for their bravery and tactical efficiency.
“These operations are a testament to our resolve to make every part of the country safe. We will continue to intensify our intelligence-led strategies and collaborate with other security agencies to rid our communities of crime,” Egbetokun stated.
The Force also urged members of the public to stay alert and cooperate with law enforcement by providing timely and credible information.
“We’re making steady progress, but the fight against crime requires the partnership of every Nigerian,” ACP Adejobi emphasized.
