As part of ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other criminal activities across communities in the North-Central region, twelve suspected kidnappers and one alleged informant have been taken into police custody during a security operation spanning Kogi and neighbouring Kwara State.
Those arrested include 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 as well as the suspected informant, Rabiu Makeri.
The operation, which targeted notorious blackspots in both states was carried out by a joint team of operatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and personnel from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Egbe, Kogi State.
The coordinated raids targeted known criminal hideouts in Isanlu-Esa and Okoloke communities in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi, as well as Patigi, Lafiagi, and Gbugbu in neighbouring Kwara State.
According to the Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, the operation led to the rescue of several kidnapped women and the recovery of motorcycles abandoned by the suspects, who fled during a gun battle with the security forces.
Fanwo stated that the operation effectively dismantled a major kidnapping network operating between Kogi and Kwara, restoring calm in the affected communities.
He also disclosed that a security operative sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire and is receiving treatment, with medical bills covered by the state government.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to tackling crime, Fanwo assured that all suspects would be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted.
While commending the professionalism of the security personnel, the Chairman of Yagba West Local Government and Kogi State ALGON, Tosin Olokun, lauded Governor Usman Ododo for providing the necessary support and logistics that ensured the success of the operation.
He described the operation as a strategic move against criminal elements in the area, made possible through the governor’s commitment to proactive and intelligence-driven security efforts.
