Police operatives, successfully rescued a kidnaped victim and neutralized three suspected kidnappers in Kwande Local Government Area, Benue State, during a daring operation on December 31, 2024.
The operation was triggered by a distress call received at the Vandiekya Police Divisional Headquarters, reporting the abduction of one Tor Gajir by armed kidnappers in the area.
In a statement released Thursday, Force spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi revealed that the police acted swiftly following the distress alert.
“Upon receiving the information, the investigation was immediately escalated, and operatives traced the kidnappers to a suspect identified as Desmond Ahar,” Adejobi said.
According to Adejobi, Ahar was apprehended, and his interrogation led the police to the location where the victim was being held at Adikpo, Benue State.
“Upon reaching the kidnapper’s hideout, the suspects spotted the police and opened fire.
In the ensuing gun battle, three of the kidnappers were killed, while others fled with gunshot wounds,” Adejobi added.
The police confirmed that the victim was rescued unharmed and immediately provided with medical care to assess any potential physical or psychological effects from the ordeal.
The operation also resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, six loaded magazines, and numerous live rounds of ammunition.
Efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining members of the criminal gang and recover additional weapons.
In a related development, police operatives in Nasarawa State made a significant discovery on December 28, 2024, when they found an abandoned Toyota Sienna vehicle along the Keffi-Kaduna Highway, near Angwan Wayo Village.
The vehicle was believed to have been used in a recent kidnapping.
“Following the trail from the abandoned vehicle, operatives located two hostages who had been taken by the kidnappers.
The victims were rescued unharmed, and operations are continuing to capture the fleeing suspects,” Adejobi reported.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun commended the operatives for their successful interventions, particularly in combating kidnapping and ensuring public safety.
“I commend the officers for their bravery and commitment.
These incidents highlight the dedication of our police force in ensuring the safety and security of citizens,” the IGP said.
Egbetokun further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and support law enforcement efforts, calling on local communities to play an active role in securing their neighborhoods.
“By working together, we can continue to strengthen internal security and protect the lives and property of Nigerians,” he concluded.
