The arrested kidnappers and an informant
Joint operations led by federal and local security forces dismantle a major kidnapping ring across Kogi and Kwara States, rescuing several abducted women and restoring calm to Yagba West.
In a decisive crackdown on criminality, a joint security operation across Kogi and Kwara States has led to the arrest of 12 suspected kidnappers and one informant, effectively dismantling a notorious kidnapping syndicate.
The high-stakes operation, jointly executed by the Hybrid Force from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Egbe, resulted in the rescue of several kidnapped women and the seizure of abandoned motorcycles used by the fleeing criminals.
The raids, which were carried out in key hotspots including Isanlu-Esa and Okoloke in Kogi’s Yagba West Local Government Area, as well as Patigi, Lafiagi, and Gbugbu in Kwara State, saw security operatives engage the suspects in a fierce gun battle.
Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed the arrests in a press statement released on Tuesday. He named the suspects as 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. Also arrested was Rabiu Makeri, who is believed to have served as an informant for the gang.
"Peace has returned to Kogi West as the criminal corridor from Kwara into our communities has now been cut off. There will be no hiding place for these criminals," Fanwo stated.
Tragically, one of the security operatives sustained gunshot injuries during the confrontation and is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Yagba West. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has pledged to cover all medical expenses.
Commending the courage and professionalism of the joint forces, Fanwo expressed deep appreciation to the National Security Adviser’s Office, the FOB Egbe, and the Kwara State Government for their cooperation and support.
In a related development, Hon. Tosin Olokun, Executive Chairman of Yagba West LGA and Chairman of ALGON Kogi State, lauded Governor Ododo’s leadership and commitment to security, emphasizing that his promise to restore peace to Yagba is being fulfilled.
“Today’s success is a result of decisive action backed by unwavering support from the state government. The people of Yagba can now breathe easier,” Olokun said.
The Kogi State Government reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on criminality and assured the public that the arrested suspects will be fully prosecuted after ongoing investigations.
Authorities also emphasized continued collaboration with federal and regional security stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and safety across all communities in the state.
"Peace has returned to Kogi West as the criminal corridor from Kwara into our communities has now been cut off. There will be no hiding place for these criminals," Fanwo stated.
Tragically, one of the security operatives sustained gunshot injuries during the confrontation and is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Yagba West. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has pledged to cover all medical expenses.
Commending the courage and professionalism of the joint forces, Fanwo expressed deep appreciation to the National Security Adviser’s Office, the FOB Egbe, and the Kwara State Government for their cooperation and support.
In a related development, Hon. Tosin Olokun, Executive Chairman of Yagba West LGA and Chairman of ALGON Kogi State, lauded Governor Ododo’s leadership and commitment to security, emphasizing that his promise to restore peace to Yagba is being fulfilled.
“Today’s success is a result of decisive action backed by unwavering support from the state government. The people of Yagba can now breathe easier,” Olokun said.
The Kogi State Government reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on criminality and assured the public that the arrested suspects will be fully prosecuted after ongoing investigations.
Authorities also emphasized continued collaboration with federal and regional security stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and safety across all communities in the state.
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