The Nasarawa State Police Command has successfully rescued two individuals from kidnapping incidents and detained one suspect in separate operations across the state. This significant development underscores the command’s ongoing commitment to combatting kidnapping and violent crime.
SP Ramhan Nansel, the command’s police public relations officer (PPRO), made the announcement in a statement issued to journalists on Wednesday in Lafia. He hailed the operations as a breakthrough in the fight against criminal activities in the region.
The first incident occurred on Monday, February 3, at approximately 3:10 p.m. A patrol team from the Anti-Robbery Squad received intelligence about a kidnapping involving a resident named David O. from the Tudun Amba area of Lafia. David had boarded a commercial motorcycle headed for Assakio when the motorcyclist diverted into a bush path and forcibly took him into the forest.
Upon receiving the information, police operatives launched a swift search operation. They successfully located and rescued David, although the suspect managed to flee the scene. Notably, David reported that he had been taken to a kidnappers’ den but managed to escape before police intervention.
In a separate case, operatives from the Gitata Police Division apprehended Jamilu Salisu, a resident of Ditsenma in Katsina State, in connection with the abduction of a 14-year-old Junior Secondary School student from UBE Gitata. Preliminary investigations revealed that Salisu had abducted the victim from beside a mosque in Gitata and taken him into the forest.
A vigilant citizen reported the incident after witnessing the suspect leading the victim towards a riverbank. Police swiftly mobilised to the area, apprehended Salisu, and rescued the young student, although one accomplice remains at large.
Mr. Nansel stated that the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Mohammed, has ordered an intensive manhunt for the fleeing suspect and has directed a thorough investigation into both cases. He reassured residents of the command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property while expressing gratitude to the public for their timely and credible information that facilitated these successful operations.
The police spokesperson further urged continued cooperation between the public and security agencies to enhance safety across the state.
As the situation develops, the Nasarawa State Police Command remains vigilant in its efforts to combat kidnapping and violent crime, fostering a safer environment for all residents. The recent operations highlight the importance of community involvement in ensuring public safety and the effectiveness of police patrols in responding to emergencies.
In conclusion, the rescue of the two kidnap victims illustrates the ongoing challenges faced in the fight against crime in Nasarawa State. The police’s proactive measures and community engagement are essential components in restoring confidence and security among the populace. As the investigation unfolds, the commitment to apprehending all involved in these criminal acts will remain a top priority for the authorities.
