Following several operations by the Nigeria Police Force across the country, aimed at tackling all forms of crime and criminality, particularly in Owerri, Imo State, five suspected kidnappers, who were operating at Obinze axis and other areas in the state, have been arrested.
This was confirmed by the Force spokesman, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Wednesday, September 11.
The kidnappers were identified as Umaru Usman, aged 40, from Mauree in Sokoto; Tukur Yau, 25, from Dawakinkudur in Kano State; Musbau Sabo, 18, from Warsaw Local Government Area in Kano State; Abdul Ibrahim, 30, from Sokoto State; and Jubrin Idris, 35, from Sokoto State.
The kidnapped victim was also said to have been rescued.
According to the FPRO, the suspects were arrested on August 21 in Avu, Imo State, and were linked with kidnappings in Obinze, Avu, and Ihiagwa.
Also nabbed was 25-year-old Nwauba Alex from Ezza LGA in Ebonyi State, for an alleged attempt to rob two residents at gunpoint near Aladinma Primary School, Owerri.
Recovered from the suspect were one locally-made pistol, two rounds of live ammunition and torchlights.
ACP Adejobi said: “The Nigeria Police remains relentless in its efforts to combat these heinous acts and reiterates commitment towards bolstering security measures.”
He added that the Inspector-General of Police, Dr Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, reaffirmed his commitment with the emplacement of both proactive and reactive measures aimed against these crimes.