The Nigeria Police Force has successfully rescued 29 kidnapped victims and arrested three suspected kidnappers in a series of coordinated operations across Kogi, Lagos, and Katsina States, as part of ongoing efforts to curb violent crimes and boost public confidence in internal security.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Monday via X (formerly Twitter). The operations, he said, were conducted in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to strengthen internal security and safeguard citizens nationwide.
On June 23, 2025, police operatives attached to the Kogi State Command thwarted a kidnap attempt along the Obajana–Oshokoshoko road. Officers on patrol engaged the suspects in a gun duel, successfully rescuing 24 passengers from three commercial vehicles.
“Similarly, on 22nd June 2025, Police operatives attached to Okene Division, Kogi State, intercepted a suspicious Nissan vehicle heading towards Auchi. The driver of the vehicle absconded into the forest, leaving behind a bag. A detailed search conducted on the vehicle, led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, 28 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, one G3 magazine, a black shirt, phone accessories, and other personal items contained inside a bag. Efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspect,” the statement added.
In Lagos, swift intervention by officers from the Morogbo Division led to the rescue of a 20-year-old man, Kehinde, who had been abducted after being lured via WhatsApp. His kidnappers demanded a ₦500,000 ransom. Based on credible intelligence, police arrested three suspects — Celestine Okeke (28), Michael Okonkwo (25), and Kehinde Oladun (30). The victim was rescued unharmed and has since been reunited with his family.
In a separate incident in Katsina State, police responded to an attempted kidnapping at Mazare village. Officers mobilized quickly to the scene and engaged the attackers in a gun battle. The kidnappers, overwhelmed by the police’s superior firepower, fled with gunshot wounds, allowing for the safe rescue of four victims.
Commending the officers for their bravery and professionalism, IGP Egbetokun reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to intelligence-driven operations and rapid response tactics.
The police further encouraged public cooperation and vigilance, reiterating their pledge to continue working with other security agencies to ensure the safety of all Nigerians.
