12 suspected kidnappers, informant arrested in Kogi-Kwara joint operation

Twelve suspected kidnappers and one informant have been arrested in a major security operation carried out across parts of Kogi and Kwara States, according to a statement by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo.

The coordinated raids, executed by the Hybrid Force from the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Egbe, led to the successful rescue of several kidnap victims. The operations targeted areas in Isanlu-Esa and Okoloke in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi, and Patigi, Lafiagi, and Gbugbu in Kwara State.

The suspects 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. One Rabiu Makeri, alleged to be an informant to the gang, was also apprehended.

Fanwo stated that the security forces engaged the suspects in a fierce gun battle, prompting some of the criminals to flee and abandon their motorcycles as well as kidnapped victims. “In the process, several kidnapped women were successfully rescued,” he said.

He praised the bravery and professionalism of the officers involved and acknowledged the collaboration of the Kwara State Government in making the operation a success. “Peace has returned to Kogi West as the criminal route from Kwara into our communities has now been disrupted. There will be no hiding place for the criminals,” he declared.

The commissioner disclosed that one of the security officers sustained a gunshot injury during the operation and is receiving treatment at a hospital in Yagba West. Governor Ahmed Ododo has pledged to cover all medical expenses for the wounded officer.

Fanwo assured that the arrested suspects would face prosecution following investigations, reaffirming the state government’s zero-tolerance policy toward crime.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area and Kogi ALGON Chairman, Tosin Olokun, expressed appreciation to the security operatives for their bravery. He also thanked Governor Ododo for providing the logistics that enabled the operation’s success. “We can now heave a sigh of relief. The people of Yagba are grateful for his leadership and the results it is delivering,” Olokun added.