The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has foiled a kidnap attempt on an officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), his wife, and other victims in the Bukan-Ari area along Kurikyo Road in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
According to a statement by the Corps’ spokesperson, Afolabi Babawale, the operation was carried out by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad following a directive from the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Audi, to clamp down on kidnapping syndicates operating within Lafia metropolis and its environs.
The operation, described as intelligence-driven and lasting about five hours, resulted in the arrest of two suspects, the neutralization of two others, while one escaped with gunshot injuries.
Commandant Apollo Dandaura, head of the CG’s Special Intelligence Squad, said the suspects engaged operatives in a fierce gun duel before being subdued. Items recovered from the scene include one AK-47 rifle, a magazine, 40 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, five mobile phones, two knives, charms, and ₦7,500 in cash.
The arrested suspects were identified as Hassan Ibrahim, 23, from Azare Local Government Area of Bauchi State, and 30-year-old Fulani man, Ibrahim Hudu. Those killed during the exchange were identified as a driver known as Mata and one Yahaya Abubakar.
Dandaura noted that the arrested suspects have confessed to their involvement in several kidnappings within Lafia and neighboring communities. He added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and other members of the gang.
Prof. Audi reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to protecting lives and property across the country, stressing that the NSCDC will continue to leverage modern intelligence technology to combat crimes. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
