Police Rescue 29 Kidnap Victims, Arrest 3 Suspects, Recover Weapons in Kogi, Lagos, and Katsina
The Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant breakthroughs in the fight against violent crimes with the rescue of 29 kidnapped victims, the arrest of three suspected kidnappers, and the recovery of dangerous weapons in recent operations across Kogi, Lagos, and Katsina States.
In Kogi State, police operatives on patrol along the Obajana–Oshokoshoko road on 23 June 2025, repelled a kidnap attempt on three commercial vehicles. The officers engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle, successfully rescuing all 24 victims unhurt.
Similarly, on 22 June 2025, officers attached to the Okene Division intercepted a suspicious Nissan vehicle heading towards Auchi. The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into the forest. A thorough search led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, 28 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, a G3 magazine, a black shirt, phone accessories, and other personal items. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect.
In Lagos State, police operatives acted swiftly on credible intelligence to rescue a 20-year-old male victim, Kehinde, who was kidnapped after being lured through WhatsApp. His abductors had demanded N500,000 ransom. Three suspects — Celestine Okeke (28), Michael Okonkwo (25), and Kehinde Oladun (30) — were arrested, and the victim has been reunited with his family.
Meanwhile, in Katsina State, police operatives responded to an attack and kidnap attempt at Mazare village. The officers engaged the kidnappers in a gunfight, overpowering them and rescuing four victims unhurt. The fleeing suspects are believed to have sustained gunshot wounds.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, commended the gallant officers for their efforts and reaffirmed the Police Force's commitment to intelligence-driven operations and swift responses to criminal threats.
The IGP urged citizens to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security agencies in the collective effort to secure lives and property across the nation.
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