The Nigeria Police Force has arrested two suspected kidnappers believed to be part of a criminal gang responsible for terrorising communities in norl
The kidnappers, identified as Buhari Adamu, 25, and Abubakar Saidu, 28, were apprehended during intelligence-led operations conducted by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department-Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS), the duo alleged to have played active roles in multiple kidnappings, murders, and armed attacks which caused unrest in the areas.
The operations that led to their arrest were carried out between June 24 and June 26, 2026, in Gbagalape within the Federal Capital Territory, Mararaba in Nasarawa State, and parts of Abuja, the Police informing that some victims of the gang were murdered after ransom demands had been made to their families.
Following the arrests, police operatives raided a hideout linked to the gang and recovered an AK-47 rifle, 22 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, 14 cows, and three sheep suspected to have been acquired through criminal activities.
Moreover, preliminary findings indicated that the syndicate was involved in the May 16, 2026 attack on Gbagalape Community, a settlement located along the border between the FCT and Nasarawa State.
Police said the suspects had provided useful information to investigators, adding that efforts were ongoing to track down and arrest other members of the gang who remain at large.
“The suspects have made statements that are assisting ongoing investigations, while efforts are being intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the criminal gang,” the police said.
Meanwhile, Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, reaffirmed the force’s commitment to dismantling violent criminal networks operating across the country.
“The Nigeria Police Force will continue to intensify intelligence-led operations aimed at combating kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes.
“We remain committed to protecting lives and property,” the IGP said.
He also commended the operatives of the FID-STS for their professionalism and resilience during the operation and urged members of the public to support law enforcement agencies with credible and timely information to aid crime prevention and detection.