The Kebbi State Police Command successfully neutralised four suspected kidnappers, detained one, and rescued Umaru Bawa, a 60-year-old man from the state’s Suru Local Government Area.
The police found ₦3 million, which had previously been paid as a ransom.
According to a statement released to reporters on Saturday, February 15, 2025, by the command’s spokesman, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, the event took place on February 14, 2025, when armed men raided Gobiraje village in Suru LGA and abducted Bawa.
“Upon receiving the report, Suru’s Divisional Police Officer (DPO) immediately mobilised police operatives and local vigilantes, tracking the suspects to Tundafari Forest in the Dakingari axis.
“A gun battle erupted between security forces and the kidnappers, resulting in the neutralisation of four kidnappers and the arrest of one suspect with fatal injuries.
“Other suspects escaped with gunshot wounds into the forest while we rescued the kidnapped victim unharmed and recovered the sum of ₦3 million in ransom money,” according to the statement.
The statement hinted that the Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, CP Bello M. Sani, praised the policemen for their bravery, professionalism, and quick response.
“The CP informed the public that the command is committed to eradicating crime and keeping peace throughout the state. To improve security, he advised locals to be watchful and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.
“The successful operation highlights security authorities’ continuous efforts to prevent kidnapping and other criminal activity in the region. Security difficulties in Kebbi State have increased in recent months, causing law enforcement authorities to step up their activities.
“Authorities have encouraged residents to cooperate with security forces, emphasising that timely information is crucial in preventing criminal activities,” the statement added.
The command, however, advised locals to notify law enforcement or the police hotline if they witnessed any strange movements.
