In a renewed effort to combat violent crimes and ensure the safety of all Nigerians, the Nigeria Police Force has rescued 23 kidnapped victims in separate operations across Niger and Enugu States.
In a statement, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said these successful rescue missions underscore the Force’s unwavering commitment to tackling criminal activities and restoring peace to affected communities.
In Niger State, suspected kidnappers launched an attack on Hayin-Dogo and Dangunu villages in Sarkin-Pawa, Munya Local Government Area, on February 20, 2025, abducting Usman Daina and four others. While Usman was released after two days, police operatives, supported by other security agencies, intensified their rescue efforts. This culminated in the safe rescue of the remaining victims—Deborah Daina, Gambo Amos, Cyprus Titus, and Satti Iko—on May 22, 2025.
Meanwhile, in Enugu State, operatives from the Enugu State Command conducted a coordinated operation in Uvuru-Ukpata forest, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, following the abduction of commuters along the Olo-Umulokpa Road. Engaging the kidnappers in a fierce gun battle, the operatives successfully rescued nine victims. Earlier, on May 16, 2025, two kidnapped men were rescued from a forest in Amalla-Egazi after being abducted from the Ezimo community.
In another operation on May 23, 2025, police operatives, working with local security outfits, stormed a forest along the Enugu-Kogi border. One of the kidnappers was neutralized during the ensuing gunfight, while others fled with gunshot wounds. Eight kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed. Efforts to track down the fleeing suspects are ongoing.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the bravery and dedication of the officers involved in these rescue operations. He also acknowledged the invaluable support of local security outfits and community members, noting their crucial role in the successes recorded so far.
IGP Egbetokun reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s determination to dismantle criminal networks and ensure that no part of Nigeria becomes a safe haven for perpetrators of crime.
