The Nigeria Police Force has foiled kidnap attempts in Akwa Ibom and Nasarawa States, rescuing a victim, arresting suspects, and recovering weapons and over ₦6.9 million in cash.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, announced the development in a statement on Sunday, crediting swift police response and community support for the success of the operations.
According to him, the first incident occurred on August 16 in Eket, Akwa Ibom, when operatives from Eket Division, assisted by Ikot Udota Division and local youths, intercepted suspected kidnappers along Factory Road, Afia Nsit.
“The quick intervention led to the rescue of one Emerson and the arrest of two suspects identified as Okon Edem Okon and Emmanuel Bassey,” Adejobi said.
A search of a nearby bush, he added, uncovered an AK-47 rifle, an assault rifle, 67 rounds of ammunition, a pump-action shotgun with six cartridges, six magazines, and a mobile phone believed to belong to the gang.
Adejobi further disclosed that another breakthrough was recorded on August 18 in Nasarawa State, following a car crash involving an Opel Vectra near Angwan Mayo community.
He said two men fled the vehicle, leaving behind a cache of arms and ₦6.9 million.
“A search on the car led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one Type 06 rifle, one G3 rifle, three magazines, 57 rounds of live ammunition, and ₦6,908,150 in cash,” he stated.
One suspect, Mohammed Tahir of Barkin Ladi, Plateau State, was later arrested with military support.
He allegedly confessed to being part of a seven-man gang that kidnapped a lawyer in Nyanya, Abuja, and collected ransom.
Adejobi noted that investigations are ongoing and assured that all suspects will be prosecuted.