Police officers in Abia and Nasarawa states have successfully rescued four kidnapping victims and eliminated seven criminals, including a high-profile kidnap kingpin identified as ‘Honor,’ during coordinated operations.
A statement released on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer revealed that the operations also resulted in the recovery of multiple firearms and ammunition, while some suspects fled with gunshot injuries.
In Abia State, authorities were alerted on March 9, 2025, that four individuals had been abducted while traveling in their Toyota RAV4 along New Umuahia Road in Obingwa. Based on intelligence, the police tactical team raided a three-bedroom bungalow in Osokwa, Osisioma Local Government Area, on March 14, where the victims were being held captive.
A violent shootout broke out during the operation, leading to the elimination of six kidnappers. The victims were rescued unharmed, and law enforcement recovered two AK-47 rifles, six magazines, and 34 rounds of live ammunition. The rescued individuals were subsequently taken to a police hospital for medical evaluation.
In a parallel operation in Nasarawa State, a combined team of police, Nigerian Army personnel, and local vigilantes located the wanted kidnapper ‘Honor’ in Akwanga. He was intercepted near Akwanga Central Mosque while trying to escape on a motorcycle.
The suspect resisted arrest and drew a weapon but was quickly neutralized. Security forces recovered a Beretta pistol and 12 rounds of 9mm live ammunition. One of his accomplices escaped with gunshot wounds, and a manhunt has been launched to apprehend the fleeing suspect.
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun praised the officers for their professionalism and reiterated the police force’s dedication to eliminating kidnapping and violent crimes.
“These successful operations highlight the unwavering resolve of the Nigeria Police Force in tackling criminal activities. We are committed to dismantling criminal networks and safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens,” the IGP stated.
