NSCDC Thwarts Kidnapping of Customs Officer, Kills Two Suspects in Lafia Gun Battle
The Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad (SIS) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has foiled a kidnapping attempt on a Customs officer, his wife, and another victim during a gun battle with a notorious kidnap gang in Lafia, Nasarawa State. The operation, which took place at the Bukan-Ari area along Kurikyo Road, resulted in the neutralization of two suspects, the arrest of two others, and the recovery of arms and ammunition.
Acting on the directive of the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, the Special Intelligence Squad launched a coordinated offensive following intelligence reports on rising kidnapping incidents within Lafia metropolis and its environs.
Speaking at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja, the head of the Special Intelligence Squad, Commandant AS Dandaura JP, disclosed that the five-hour intelligence-led operation successfully foiled the abduction attempt, adding that the gang was overpowered by superior firepower.
He stated, “The success of the operation was made possible through the deployment of modern technology and credible intelligence on the gang’s activities. The kidnappers met their Waterloo during an attempt to abduct a Customs officer, his wife, and one other person.”
According to him, two suspects—Hassan Ibrahim (23), from Azare LGA, Bauchi State, and Ibrahim Hudu (30)—were arrested, while two others, identified as Mata (a driver) and Yahaya Abubakar, were killed in the exchange of gunfire. One suspect escaped with gunshot wounds and fled with an AK-47 rifle.
Items recovered from the scene include one AK-47 assault rifle, one magazine, forty rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, five mobile phones, two knives, N7,500 cash, and substances suspected to be charms.
Commandant Dandaura added that the arrested suspects are cooperating with ongoing investigations and have confessed to their involvement in previous kidnapping operations. Efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspect and other members of the syndicate.
The NSCDC Commandant General reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging members of the public to report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies for prompt action.
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