Police Capture Three Key Suspects Behind Abuja Kidnappings

Security operatives from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have arrested three notorious kidnappers linked to several abductions and killings in Abuja and nearby states.

In a statement released by Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh, the suspects—27-year-old Ya’u Shittu from Kaduna, 30-year-old Sale Usman from Niger, and 28-year-old Ibrahim Abdullahi from Abuja—were apprehended during special operations by the Command’s Scorpion Squad between June 13 and 18, 2025, across Kaduna, Niger, and Nasarawa States.

The suspects, long on the police wanted list, confessed to various crimes, including the murder of a pastor in Mpape in 2024 and the abduction of children from the same area, where their father was fatally shot. They were also involved in the kidnapping of a woman whose family paid N10 million in ransom. Each gang member received N500,000 from the proceeds.

Acting on what was described as “credible digital reconstructive intelligence,” the police tracked and arrested the suspects, led by ACP Victor O. Godfrey.

During a follow-up operation on June 18, suspect Ibrahim Abdullahi, who also served as the gang’s arms supplier, led police to a hideout in Bukuru, Nasarawa State. There, officers came under fire from other gang members, sparking a gun battle. Abdullahi was shot while attempting to escape and was re-arrested, while other accomplices fled and remain at large.

Items recovered include a large knife and several charms.

FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao S. Adewale, praised the bravery of the Scorpion Squad and reassured residents of ongoing efforts to ensure public safety. He urged the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity.

“This is a major win against violent crime in Abuja. We are fully committed to cleaning up our communities,” he said.

The arrested suspects remain in custody as investigations continue, and police are intensifying efforts to capture the remaining gang members.

Punch

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