The Kaduna State Police Command has rescued three kidnap victims who spent over 40 days in captivity and arrested five suspected informants believed to have aided the criminal gang responsible for their abduction.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday.
According to Hassan, the victims were rescued during a coordinated security operation carried out by a joint team of security personnel from Fushin Kada and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Hunkuyi. The operation followed weeks of intelligence gathering, surveillance, and strategic tracking of suspected bandits operating in the area.
He explained that security operatives traced the kidnappers to a hideout believed to be used by bandits. On sighting the advancing security team, the criminals reportedly fled the location, abandoning the captives.
“The bandits escaped upon noticing the approaching security personnel, leaving behind the victims, who were rescued without any injuries,” Hassan said.
The rescued victims were identified as Ekechikwu Omale, Ummi Salisu, both from Kudan Local Government Area of Kaduna State, and Pastor Daniel Tanko Bawa of Tufa Village in neighbouring Niger State.
Following their rescue, the victims were taken to a police medical facility where they underwent examination and received treatment before being reunited with their families.
The police spokesperson also revealed that five suspected informants were arrested during the course of the investigation. Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects allegedly supplied information and logistical support to the kidnappers, thereby facilitating their criminal activities.
According to Hassan, the suspects confessed to their roles during interrogation, while investigations are continuing to uncover the full extent of the network’s operations.
Reacting to the successful rescue, the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State, CP Rabiu Muhammad, praised the professionalism and commitment of the security personnel involved in the operation. He also commended the collaboration among various security agencies that contributed to the mission’s success.
Muhammad reaffirmed the command’s determination to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes across Kaduna State, stressing that the safety of residents remains a top priority.
He urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information, noting that community participation is vital in the fight against criminality.
The police commissioner added that efforts were ongoing to track down and arrest other members of the kidnapping syndicate and ensure that everyone connected to the crime is brought to justice.
