Police claim rescue of 21 kidnap victims in Q1 of intensified crackdown
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Police have claimed the rescue of 21 kidnap victims and recovery of N4.8 million ransom payment in the first quarter of 2025 (Q1 2025) in their intensified crackdown on kidnapping, banditry, and violent crimes across the country.
A statement issued by Police Force Headquarters spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi said multiple operations conducted nationwide in Q1 2025 significantly disrupted criminal networks and strengthened security efforts.
He cited the rescue of 20 abduction victims along the Takum/Mararaba Road in Taraba on March 29 in collaboration with other security agencies, which followed a kidnapping incident in Muji Town that involved a fierce gun battle between security forces and the kidnappers.
Adejobi said the criminals were forced to flee, abandoning the victims and their vehicles at the scene, and that two of the rescued individuals are currently receiving medical treatment for their injuries.
His words: “The Nigeria Police Force has intensified its efforts to combat kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes across the country, employing decisive nationwide operations to dismantle criminal networks and aggressively tackle kidnapping and illegal arms proliferation.
“In a coordinated series of raids throughout the first quarter of 2025, the Force has delivered crippling blows to organised crime, rescuing victims, apprehending key suspects, and seizing a cache of weapons and illicit funds, marking a significant escalation in the fight against criminal elements threatening the safety and security of Nigerian citizens.
“Most recent of these operations were in Taraba State, where police operatives attached to the state command spearheaded one such successful operation on March 29, 2025, along the Takum/Mararaba Road.
“The operatives, in conjunction with other security agencies, swiftly responded to a kidnapping in progress at Muji Town. A fierce gun battle ensued, leading to the rescue of 20 kidnapped victims, alongside all the vehicles abandoned at the scene. Two of the victims who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical care.”
Adejobi said investigation into the abduction of Muhammad Yushau on March 8 in Kano led to the arrest of several key suspects.
“In Kano State, a meticulous investigation was launched on March 8, 2025, following the kidnapping of Dr. Muhammad Bello Yushau culminating in a series of arrests.
“On March 18 and 19, a technical analysis led police operatives from the state Anti-Kidnapping Squad to apprehend Tukur Lawal, AKA Maikudi, along with accomplices, Ado Usman, Sanusi Surajo, Habiba Shuaibu, and Ummulkhairi Ibrahim.
“In their possession, authorities recovered a locally made rifle and N4,840,000 in cash believed to be ransom money. The victim was rescued unhurt and reunited with his family.
“Furthermore, in a separate operation, operatives of the Special Tactical Squad acting on credible intelligence arrested one Kafinta Musa ‘m’ of Taraba State in connection with armed robbery, kidnapping, and unlawful possession of firearms.
“An AK49 rifle loaded with 5 rounds of live ammunition was seized during the arrest. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend remaining members of his criminal syndicate.”
Adejobi commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism and quoted Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun as reaffirming the commitment of the police to tackling crime and ensuring public safety.
He urged citizens to continue to provide timely and credible information to aid security efforts.
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