Kogi Confirms Arrest of Kidnappers’ Informants
In a sustained crackdown on criminal collaborators in Kogi State, security operatives have apprehended two additional suspected informants linked to kidnapping syndicates.
The development brings the total number of suspected informants arrested within the past 72 hours to three, following the earlier arrest of one Babatunde Aledare on Sunday in Ayetoro Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.
The Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed the latest arrests in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lokoja. He identified the newly arrested suspects as Dare Okegbe and Lakutu Omobab-Ajelesimi, both residents of Ayetoro Kiri.
“Both suspects have confessed to collaborating with kidnappers by setting up members of their own community for abduction,” Fanwo disclosed, noting that the arrests mark a major stride in the ongoing effort to dismantle kidnapping networks in Okunland.
Fanwo further revealed that Aledare, the first suspect arrested, had made confessional statements that led to the identification and subsequent arrest of his alleged co-conspirators.
He stated that security operatives remain on the trail of other members of the kidnapping syndicates, reaffirming the state government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating crime and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
PRNigeria recalls that Kogi State authorities, in collaboration with joint security forces, launched a comprehensive offensive against criminal elements in response to a series of disturbing incidents, including the abduction and subsequent death of a retired Nigerian Army officer from Odo-Ape and the kidnapping of a prominent farmer from Ponyan in Yagba East.
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“These incidents, alongside other related crimes in Yagba West, Ijumu, and Kabba/Bunu LGAs, have prompted decisive action from security agencies,” Fanwo said.
According to him, the operations have not only resulted in arrests but have also exposed the disturbing involvement of some residents who allegedly provide logistical support to kidnappers.
He cited the late Samson Enietan, a suspected informant who reportedly died under suspicious circumstances shortly after being identified as a key accomplice in the Odo-Ape abduction. While initial reports suggested suicide, the government suspects foul play, alleging that he may have been silenced by fellow collaborators to prevent further revelations about the criminal network.
Fanwo detailed the extent of local complicity, alleging that certain bread vendors and sachet water suppliers were delivering food and water to kidnappers in forest hideouts, while motorcycle riders served as couriers. He also accused some petrol stations of illegally selling fuel in containers, which was then transported into the bush to power criminal camps.
In addition, he alleged that some wood contractors were complicit, trading food supplies with criminal elements in exchange for protection of their businesses.
The commissioner issued a stern warning that anyone—individuals or businesses—found aiding or abetting criminal activities would face the full weight of the law.
“Whether you’re selling fuel, food, land, or information to criminals, you will be prosecuted. No one will be spared,” he declared.
Fanwo also revealed that certain traditional rulers and youth leaders are currently under investigation for allegedly selling land to criminal elements, who then established detention camps for kidnapped victims.
He concluded by reaffirming the commitment of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration to restoring peace and security across the state, adding that operations to rescue remaining kidnapped victims are ongoing.
By PRNigeria
