Police Neutralise Suspected Kidnapper In Nasarawa

Operatives of the Nasarawa State Police Command have neturalised a suspected kidnapper, one Auta Habu, in Nasarawa Eggon local government area.

Habu was killed in a shootout with the police operatives after he and his men allegedly opened fire on the advancing team during an attempted kidnap operation at about 330 am yesterday.

According to Ramhan Nansel, the command’s spokesperson, a team attached to Nasarawa Eggon Division, while on routine patrol on the Nasarawa Eggon–Akwanga Highway, discovered an attempted kidnapping incident near Rice Mill, Nasarawa Eggon.

“The team observed that the highway had been barricaded with stones by unknown armed young men suspected to be kidnappers, with the intention of attacking unsuspecting motorists.

“Upon sighting the police patrol team, the hoodlums opened fire, prompting a swift and decisive response from the operatives. In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, the criminals were overpowered. One of the suspects was neutralised, while others fled into the surrounding bush with possible gunshot wounds,” he explained.

He said following a distress alert, the commissioner of police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, promptly mobilised a reinforcement team to the scene to ensure the area was secured and normalcy restored.

He noted that the injured suspect was immediately rushed to a medical facility, where he was confirmed dead by a doctor.

“The deceased was later identified as one Auta Habu of a Ruga (Fulani settlement) in Gidan Waya, Nasarawa Eggon local government area of the state, whose investigation revealed him to have been involved in several criminal activities,” Nansel added.

He said the highway has been cleared and safe for motorists and other road users.

He also stated that efforts were ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing members of the gang.

“The command urges members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to the nearest police station.

“The commissioner of police reiterates the command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across the state,” he noted.