The Nigeria Police Force says it has achieved major breakthroughs in its recent anti-crime operations, rescuing kidnapped victims in Kebbi State and dismantling a notorious gang in Abia.
According to the Force Headquarters via a statement released on Tuesday, August 26, the operations led to the safe return of five abducted persons, the recovery of several arms and ammunition, and the elimination of multiple criminal suspects.
In Kebbi State, security operatives rescued three men abducted by armed kidnappers who raided Sangara Village in Shanga Local Government Area on July 27.
The victims, identified as Muhammad Nasamu Namata, 25; Gide Namata, 20; and Hamidu Alhaji Namani, 35, were tracked to Shanga Hills, where police officers, working alongside vigilantes and other security agencies, engaged the suspects in a fierce gunfight.
The kidnappers were forced to flee with gunshot wounds, leaving the captives behind.
In a separate encounter on August 15, police officers on patrol around Dankade Village in Ribah District confronted armed bandits who had earlier abducted two cattle herders from Zamfara State.
The victims, 26-year-old Tukur Bello and 25-year-old Isyaka Abubakar, were rescued unharmed after the gun battle and have since reunited with their families.
The Force also confirmed that in Abia State, operatives acting on intelligence raided a kidnappers’ hideout in Umuiku Obete Village, Ukwa West Local Government Area.
The gang, which had been linked to several attacks along Umuozo Village and Uratta Road, off Port Harcourt Road, opened fire on the team but were overpowered. Five gang members were killed in the shootout.
Items recovered from the hideout include six AK-47 rifles, 335 rounds of live ammunition, 14 magazines, mobile phones, operational jackets, cutlasses, boots, charms, and a long double-barreled gun.
Police say further operations are underway to track down fleeing suspects.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the officers for their bravery, urging them not to relent.
“Our operatives have shown courage and commitment to the safety of Nigerians. We will continue to fight criminals until peace is restored across every part of this country,” the IGP stated.
The Police also assured Nigerians that efforts to dismantle criminal networks nationwide will remain sustained, stressing that the Force is committed to protecting lives and property.