Babatunji Wusu –
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Twelve suspected kidnappers and one informant were arrested during coordinated security raids across parts of Kogi and Kwara States.
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The operation was jointly conducted by the Hybrid Force from the Office of the National Security Adviser and personnel from the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Egbe.
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Areas covered included Isanlu-Esa and Okoloke in Yagba West LGA of Kogi State, and Patigi, Lafiagi, and Gbugbu in Kwara State.
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The suspects, including Mainasara Abubakar, Sadik Abubakar, Jude Sani, and others, faced armed confrontation with security forces, leading some kidnappers to flee and abandon victims and motorcycles.
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Several kidnapped women were rescued in the operation.
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One security agent was wounded and is receiving treatment, with the Kogi State Governor pledging to cover medical costs.
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Authorities commended inter-state cooperation and affirmed commitment to prosecuting the suspects to curb criminality.
A coordinated security operation across Kogi and Kwara States resulted in the arrest of twelve suspected kidnappers and one alleged informant, officials confirmed. The arrests followed a series of raids jointly executed by the Hybrid Force from the Office of the National Security Adviser and officers from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Egbe.
Operations targeted strategic locations including Isanlu-Esa and Okoloke in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, as well as Patigi, Lafiagi, and Gbugbu in Kwara State. The arrested suspects were identified 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, with Rabiu Makeri detained as the alleged informant.
Security forces engaged the suspects in a gun battle during which some kidnappers fled, abandoning their motorcycles and a number of kidnapped victims. Importantly, several women held hostage were successfully rescued during the operation.
The incident saw a security agent wounded in the confrontations and currently receiving treatment in Yagba West, with the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, committed to covering medical expenses.
Officials praised the professionalism and bravery of security personnel and highlighted the vital cooperation between Kogi and Kwara authorities that led to the operation’s success. The government reaffirmed its zero tolerance for criminal activities and assured the public that the suspects will face thorough investigations and prosecution.
