Introduction to the Arrest
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested two notorious kidnap kingpins and recovered firearms and ₦7.4 million in cash following a counter-kidnapping operation.
Details of the Kidnapping Incident
SP Josephine Adeh, Police Public Relations Officer, FCT Command in a statement said, the suspects, identified as Masud Abdullahi, the gang leader from Karu LGA, Nasarawa State, and Muhammad Tahir of Jos, Plateau State, were arrested after their gang invaded an estate in Karu, Abuja, on August 16, 2025, at about 12:05 a.m. The assailants abducted one Barrister Henry Chichi from his residence and whisked him away to an undisclosed location.
Police Operation and Rescue
According to police, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit immediately launched an operation that mounted pressure on the gang, leading to the safe release of the victim on August 17, 2025, at about 9:05 p.m. In a follow-up operation, carried out in collaboration with the Nasarawa State Police Command, operatives intercepted the suspects along the Guraku axis of the Nasarawa–FCT highway after their operational vehicle, a red Opel Vectra (registration number BLD 566 AT), lost control. While some members of the gang escaped, Abdullahi and Tahir were arrested.
Recovery of Items and Arrest of Accomplice
The suspects later led police to their hideout in the Karshi Forest, Nasarawa State, where another accomplice, Kabiru Jibril (22), was arrested. Items recovered from the hideout include ₦7.4 million cash, Three AK-47 rifles with magazines, one G3 rifle with magazine,16 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition and one Tecno handset.
Reaction from the Police Commissioner
The Commissioner of Police, FCT, CP Ajao Adewale, commended the operatives for their professionalism and reassured residents of the Command’s determination to rid the capital of criminal elements. He also noted that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.
Conclusion
The successful arrest of the kidnap kingpins and the recovery of firearms and cash is a significant milestone in the fight against kidnapping in the FCT. The operation demonstrates the effectiveness of the police in responding to and resolving kidnapping cases. The police have shown that they are committed to ensuring the safety and security of residents in the FCT.
FAQs
- Q: Who were the suspects arrested by the FCT Police Command?
A: The suspects arrested were Masud Abdullahi, the gang leader, and Muhammad Tahir. - Q: What was the reason for their arrest?
A: They were arrested for their involvement in a kidnapping incident in Karu, Abuja. - Q: What items were recovered from the suspects’ hideout?
A: The items recovered include ₦7.4 million cash, firearms, and ammunition. - Q: Is the victim safe?
A: Yes, the victim, Barrister Henry Chichi, was safely released after the police operation. - Q: Are there ongoing efforts to apprehend other members of the gang?
A: Yes, the police are still working to arrest other fleeing members of the gang.
