Abuja, Nigeria – 30th June 2025
In a sustained and strategic effort to combat violent crimes and restore public confidence, the Nigeria Police Force has achieved significant breakthroughs across Kogi, Lagos, and Katsina States, rescuing 29 kidnapped victims, arresting three suspected kidnappers, and recovering dangerous weapons, including an AK-47 rifle. Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has reaffirmed the Force’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a safer Nigeria.
Kogi State: Rescue Operations and Weapon Recovery
On 23rd June 2025, operatives of the Kogi State Police Command, while on patrol along the Obajana–Oshokoshoko road, successfully thwarted a kidnap attempt targeting three commercial vehicles. Engaging the kidnappers in a fierce gun duel, the operatives rescued all 24 victims unharmed.
In a related development on 22nd June 2025, operatives from Okene Division intercepted a suspicious Nissan vehicle heading toward Auchi. The driver fled into a nearby forest, abandoning a bag. A thorough search of the vehicle uncovered an AK-47 rifle, 28 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, a G3 magazine, a black shirt, phone accessories, and other personal items. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect.
Lagos State: Swift Action Leads to Arrests
Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Lagos State Command responded to a reported abduction in the Ikoga area of Morogbo. The victim, a 20-year-old male named Kehinde, was lured via WhatsApp and kidnapped, with the assailants demanding a ₦500,000 ransom from his family. Swift police action resulted in the arrest of three suspects: Celestine Okeke (28), Michael Okonkwo (25), and Kehinde Oladun (30). The victim was rescued unharmed and reunited with his family.
Katsina State: Firefight and Rescue
In Katsina State, operatives responded to a reported attack and kidnapping attempt at Mazare village. Upon arrival, police engaged the kidnappers in a fierce gun duel, overpowering them with superior firepower. The kidnappers fled with various degrees of gunshot injuries, and four kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed.
IGP’s Commitment to Public Safety
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the bravery and dedication of the operatives involved in these operations. He urged them to maintain their momentum in the fight against criminal elements, emphasizing the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing, rapid operational responses, and inter-agency collaboration.
The Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to protect lives and property across the nation. The public is encouraged to stay vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure a safer and more secure Nigeria.
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