By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
In a successful operation, the Kogi State Police, in collaboration with a private security firm hired by the state government, have arrested four alleged kidnappers and rescued 10 victims in the Ajaokuta region of the state.
The state’s Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, confirmed the arrests in a statement released to journalists in Lokoja. He explained that the kidnappers had been causing significant distress in the area, involved in various criminal activities including kidnapping, robbery, and sexual assault.
Due to the rising criminal activities, the Kogi State Government enlisted the services of Base SAN Security Nigeria Ltd, a private security outfit, to support the police in tackling the crime wave. The collaborative effort led to the capture of the kidnappers and the safe return of the 10 victims who had been abducted from the Kogi East region.
Fanwo revealed that the suspects were cooperating with investigators, and the victims would soon be reunited with their families. He also emphasized that the joint effort with the private security firm was a success, underscoring the Ododo administration’s commitment to security.
“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is fully committed to ensuring that Kogi remains a secure state for all. The state government is using every available resource to combat crime and safeguard lives and property,” Fanwo stated.
The Commissioner praised both the Kogi State Police Command and Base SAN Security Nigeria Ltd for their swift and effective action in dismantling the kidnap syndicate. He reiterated the government’s continued support for security agencies in their mission to ensure the safety of the public.
The arrested kidnappers are currently in police custody where further investigations are ongoing, with plans for their prosecution.