Thirteen individuals, including 12 suspected kidnappers and an alleged informant, have been apprehended in a coordinated security operation spanning parts of Kogi and Kwara states.
Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, made the announcement on Wednesday in Lokoja, revealing that several kidnap victims, including women, were rescued during the operation.
The joint operation was carried out by the Hybrid Force from the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) in collaboration with personnel from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.
According to Fanwo, the raids were executed across multiple communities, including Isanlu-Esa and Okoloke in Kogi, as well as Patigi, Lafiagi, and Gbugbu in Kwara State.
The suspects arrested include Mainasara Abubakar, Sadik Abubakar, Jude Sani, Sanda Abubakar, Lawali Usman, Tukur Shehu, Hassan Abubakar, Kabiru Surajo, Makiri Dodo, Bala Hassan, Umaru Sanda, and Ruwa Abubakar.
One Rabiu Makeri, identified as an alleged informant to the gang, was also taken into custody.
Fanwo said the security team came under fire from the suspects during the raid, which resulted in a gun duel. Some of the criminals escaped, abandoning their motorcycles and hostages in the process.
The successful rescue of kidnapped women followed.
He praised the swift response and bravery of the operatives, noting that the collaboration between federal and state forces had disrupted a key criminal corridor between Kwara and Kogi.
“Our appreciation goes to the officers from the NSA’s office and the personnel at FOB Egbe for their professionalism and courage. We also acknowledge the cooperation of the Kwara State Government in achieving this success,” Fanwo said.
He confirmed that one security officer sustained gunshot wounds during the operation and is currently receiving medical care in Yagba West. Governor Ahmed Ododo has pledged to cover all medical expenses for the injured officer.
The commissioner assured that the arrested suspects would be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted, reaffirming the state government’s firm stance against criminality.
In his reaction, Chairman of Yagba West LGA and Kogi State ALGON leader, Hon. Tosin Olokun, lauded the security agencies for their gallantry and commended Governor Ododo for providing the logistics and support that ensured the operation’s success.
“Governor Ododo made a promise to restore security in Yagba West and East, and he has followed through. The people of Yagba are relieved and grateful for his leadership,” Olokun stated.