Kidnappers hotbed, Kaduna state may finally be set for relative peace as the Police Command in Kaduna said Its operatives have arrested 280 suspected criminals and rescued 158 kidnapped victims from January to date.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this at a press briefing at the command on Thursday in Kaduna.
Adejobi said, ”I am pleased to highlight the significant achievements in our crime-fighting endeavours, with a particular focus on the Abuja-Kaduna expressway corridor, and communities in Kaduna State, spanning from January to date.
“Notably, I would like to draw attention to a strategic initiative implemented along the Abuja-Kaduna expressway, which has significantly contributed to our successes.”
According to him, under the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, a helicopter has been deployed to serve as an escort for trains using the route.
It provides aerial support for ground troops from the Armed Forces, Police, and other security agencies.
“It has been deployed along the corridor as a proactive measure to prevent attacks and act as a first responder in the event of any untoward incidents,” Adejobi said.
Arms and ammunition recovered by police operatives on Thursday in Kaduna.
He said this proactive measure has proven instrumental in enhancing security along the corridor, ultimately safeguarding the lives and property of commuters and residents of the adjourning communities along the route.
The Police spokesperson said, ”During this period, our proactive measures and relentless pursuit of criminal elements have resulted in remarkable outcomes.
”This included the arrest of 81 armed robbery suspects, 40 kidnap suspects, 73 murder/homicide suspects, 36 rape suspects, 22 suspects involved in cult-related crimes, and 28 suspects engaged in other criminal activities.
“We have successfully recovered 16 firearms of various types, along with 226 ammunition of diverse calibres.
”Additionally, our operations have led to the retrieval of 28 stolen vehicles, over 200 harmful weapons, and 600 bags of fertilizers.
“A total of N3.3 million, previously paid as ransom to kidnappers, has been successfully recovered, while our swift and coordinated efforts have resulted in the safe rescue of 158 kidnapped victims, all of whom have been reunited with their families unharmed.”
The Force PPRO said the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of I-G Kayode Egbetokun, remains steadfast in its resolve to uphold the rule of law, ensure the safety and security of all citizens, and combat criminal activities across the country.
He said these recent achievements along the Abuja-Kaduna expressway underscored the zeal of the Force in fulfilling its mandate of protecting lives and property.
“This special intervention and operation would be replicated in other major expressways and cities across the country by establishing the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) by the I-G.
The Force Police Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, addressing the press on Thursday in Kaduna.
Adejobi said, “We will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, employ innovative strategies, and harness the full force of the law to root out criminal elements and create a conducive environment for peaceful coexistence and socio-economic development.
“As we forge ahead, the Nigeria Police Force extends its gratitude to members of the public for their continued support and cooperation.
“Together, we will build safer communities, foster trust between the police and citizens, and strive towards a Nigeria where all individuals can live without fear of crime or violence.“
