The Nigeria Police Force says it has rescued five victims of abduction and killed five suspected kidnappers in separate operations across Kebbi and Abia states.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed this in a statement on Tuesday, noting that the breakthroughs were achieved through coordinated efforts of police operatives, other security agencies, and local vigilantes.
According to Adejobi, three victims who were seized in Sangara village, Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State on July 27, were freed unhurt after a fierce exchange of gunfire in Shanga Hills.
The victims were identified as 25-year-old Muhammad Nasamu Namata, 20-year-old Gide Namata, and 35-year-old Hamidu Alhaji Namani.
“The kidnappers fled with bullet wounds during the encounter, which paved the way for the safe rescue of the hostages,” Adejobi said.
He added that two other victims — Tukur Bello, 26, and Isyaka Abubakar, 25 — were also rescued in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area during a routine patrol on August 15.
The pair had earlier been abducted while grazing cattle in Gairi Forest, Zamfara State.
In Abia State, Adejobi explained that police operatives stormed a kidnappers’ den at Umuiku Obete village, Ukwa West Local Government Area, following credible intelligence.
“The hoodlums, who had been terrorising residents and commuters along Umuozo village and Uratta Road, engaged our operatives in a gun duel. They were subdued, and five of them were neutralised,” he said.
Recovered items from the hideout included six AK-47 rifles, 335 rounds of ammunition, 14 magazines, five mobile phones, three cutlasses, five operational jackets, an axe, a double-barrel long gun, a pair of boots, and charms.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the officers for their gallantry, urging them to sustain the momentum in the fight against criminal gangs nationwide.
“The Nigeria Police remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property. I encourage our men to intensify the onslaught against criminal actors across the country,” the IG was quoted as saying.