The Kaduna State Police Command has successfully rescued a man who was abducted in Abuja, foiling the kidnappers’ attempt to transport the victim to Kano.
The police have also arrested one suspect in connection with the kidnapping.
According to a statement by the spokesperson for the police in Kaduna, Mansur Hassan, the command received a distress call at the Kawo Divisional Police Station about the movement of the kidnappers through the state.
The victim, identified as Segun Akinyemi, was abducted in Abuja and was reportedly being taken to Kano by the kidnappers.
In response to the distress call, police operatives took swift action, blocking the road at midnight and intercepting a grey Toyota Hilux van with registration number Abuja RBC 90 BC. The vehicle, carrying five passengers, including the suspected kidnapper, was halted for inspection.
Upon sighting the police, one of the suspected kidnappers reportedly opened fire, leading to a gun battle between the operatives and the criminals. The victim, Segun Akinyemi, was successfully rescued during the operation, and one suspect, identified as 28-year-old Chinaza Philip of Life Camp Abuja, was apprehended.
The police spokesperson revealed that three other kidnappers managed to escape but are currently being pursued by security forces. The identities of the escaped suspects include Chidibere Nwodibo of Life Camp Abuja, one Auwal (surname unknown), and the gang leader, whose identity is yet to be ascertained.
Items recovered from the arrested suspect, Chinaza Philip, include the victim’s vehicle, two Retay G17 model pistols, one Berretta pistol, 10 9mm P.A.K ammunition, and five 9mm special ammunition.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the victim was abducted on January 17, 2024, at approximately 5:00 PM as he was leaving his residence in Block 10, Flat 2 FCDA Quarters, Area 3 Garki, Abuja.
