The Nigeria Police Force has arrested two suspects in connection with a kidnapping and armed robbery syndicate allegedly operating across parts of Kaduna State, following investigations that revealed a case involving the abduction of a man allegedly orchestrated with the participation of his own family member.
In a statement Force Public Relations Officer Force Headquarters, Abuja DCP Anthony Okon Placid said the suspects, identified as Yusuf Rabo and Musa Adamu, were arrested over their alleged involvement in the kidnapping of Alhaji Rabo Jelani. A third suspect, identified as Ali Haruna, said to be the victim’s grandson, is currently at large.
Police investigations indicated that the suspects conspired to abduct the elderly victim on the basis of claims that he possessed substantial wealth and livestock. Authorities further alleged that the operation involved criminal collaboration within the family structure.
According to the findings, the syndicate sourced and deployed AK-47 rifles for its operations. One of the weapons was reportedly supplied by Ali Haruna and traced to his father, while other firearms were obtained through additional members of the group. One AK-47 rifle with an empty magazine was recovered during the operation.
Investigators also established that the victim was abducted on multiple occasions and held in forest locations, where ransom negotiations were conducted by Yusuf Rabo. The first incident reportedly resulted in a payment of ₦2 million, while a subsequent abduction allegedly generated ₦4.5 million.
The group has also been linked to other violent crimes in the region, including the kidnapping of a trader identified as Mr. Iyke and an armed robbery attack along the Kagoma axis, during which commuters were reportedly dispossessed of cash and valuables.
The police said efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect, Ali Haruna, and to recover additional firearms and exhibits connected to the criminal activities.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to dismantling kidnapping and armed robbery networks nationwide, stating that intelligence-led operations would continue to target violent criminal syndicates.
