Police Foil Kidnap Plot, Arrest Three Suspects in Nasarawa

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Nasarawa State Police Command has foiled a planned kidnapping in Karu Local Government Area and arrested three suspects linked to the plot, following a swift intelligence-led operation.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Ramhan Nansel, who said the operation was launched after authorities received a distress complaint over threats issued against an agro-businesswoman and her children.

According to the statement, the case was reported to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) after unknown persons allegedly demanded a ransom of N5 million, warning that the victims would be abducted if the demand was not met.

Acting on the report, the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohamed, ordered an immediate investigation to avert the threat and track down those responsible.

“The Command launched an intelligence-driven operation which yielded positive results,” the statement noted.

Police operatives subsequently arrested two suspects identified as Prince Eze, 19, and Marwan Salihu, 18, both residents of Agada Village in Karu LGA, in connection with the attempted extortion and planned abduction.

Further investigation led to the arrest of a third suspect, Hassan Mathew Yerima, from Keffi, who was said to be coordinating the collection of the ransom on behalf of the group.

Nansel said the suspects are currently in custody and assisting investigators with useful information, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the suspected criminal network.

“The suspects are cooperating with investigators, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate and ensure they are brought to justice,” the statement added.

The police command reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, urging members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or threats.

The incident highlights ongoing security concerns in parts of the state, with authorities intensifying efforts to curb kidnapping and related crimes through proactive intelligence and community collaboration.