Mohamed Garba
In a sweeping crackdown on organized crime, the Nigeria Police Force announced Monday that coordinated operations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Jigawa State led to the rescue of an 80-year-old kidnapping victim, the arrest of 12 suspects, and the deaths of six armed criminals.
The raids also uncovered a staggering arsenal of weapons, marking a significant blow to kidnapping and robbery syndicates terrorizing the region.
Acting on intelligence, FCT police operatives intercepted a notorious armed robbery and carjacking gang in the upscale Maitama district as they prepared to strike. A violent confrontation erupted when suspects opened fire, leading to the death of Abdulmininu Bello, alias Babanle—a high-profile target on the police wanted list. Seven accomplices were arrested, including two ex-convicts: Ibrahim Muhammad (22) and Isiaka Adamu.
Recovered items included four AK-47 rifles, two pistols, a shotgun, over 20 rounds of ammunition, a stolen Toyota Camry, and a motorcycle. “This syndicate orchestrated a wave of violent crimes across the capital. Their dismantling is a critical victory,” said Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi in a statement released on X (formerly Twitter).
In a parallel operation, Jigawa State police, aided by local vigilantes, stormed a kidnappers’ hideout between Danzomo and Medi villages, rescuing Hajiya Hajara, an 80-year-old woman abducted from Sarbi Village, Kano State. Intelligence revealed a 12-member armed gang had planned to transport her through Jigawa.
A fierce gun battle left five kidnappers dead and five arrested, including alleged ringleader Yahaya (35). Hajara was unharmed and discharged after a medical check. Authorities recovered two AK-47s, a locally made rifle, ammunition, motorcycles, and phones from the scene.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun lauded the operatives’ “exceptional courage” and reiterated the force’s commitment to eradicating criminal networks. “These successes reveal the power of community-police collaboration,” he stated, urging citizens to report suspicious activities promptly.
The twin operations highlight Nigeria’s intensified efforts to combat rampant kidnappings and armed robberies, which have plagued communities amid economic strife. With 12 suspects in custody and a lethal arsenal off the streets, authorities signal a renewed crackdown—but challenges persist as criminal networks adapt.
