Police Arrest Kidnap Kingpin in FCT as Bandits Attack Niger Community
The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against kidnapping and violent crimes following the arrest of a suspected kidnap kingpin in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), even as bandits launched a deadly attack on a rural community in Niger State, PRNigeria reports.
In Abuja, police operatives from the Scorpion Squad apprehended a 27-year-old suspect, Ya’u Shittu, during a raid in the Mpape area of the FCT on June 13. According to police sources, Shittu, a native of Kafanchan in Kaduna State, was arrested at about 2:28 p.m. based on actionable digital forensic intelligence.
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According to Zagazola Makama, the arrested suspect is believed to be the mastermind behind several high-profile kidnappings within the FCT and surrounding areas, including the abduction and killing of a pastor in Mpape last year. During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to participating in at least two major kidnappings—one in Katampe where a N10 million ransom was collected, and another in the Shishipe 1 area of Mpape.
Shittu also named eight members of his gang who are currently on the run. Police said efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover their weapons.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident in Niger State, armed bandits attacked Dankashimo Rafin-Karma community in Nagwamatse District, Kontagora Local Government Area, late on June 12.
During the attack, which occurred around 11:30 p.m., the assailants shot and killed a local vigilante, identified as Aliyu, before abducting five residents—Faiza Aliyu, Ado Dikko, Maryam Gambo, Baraatu Naziru, and Murja Lawal.
However, swift response by security forces and community members forced the bandits to abandon their captives. All five victims were later rescued unharmed and have since been reunited with their families.
Both incidents highlight the persistent threats posed by kidnapping syndicates and armed banditry across Nigeria, even as law enforcement agencies intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks and restore security in affected communities.
By PRNigeria
