By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
A joint security operation conducted by the Nigerian Police and a private security outfit has led to the arrest of four suspected kidnappers and the rescue of ten victims in the Ajaokuta area of Kogi State.
The suspects, who had allegedly been terrorizing the region with crimes such as kidnapping, robbery, and assault, were apprehended on Tuesday following credible intelligence.
The Kogi State Government had partnered with a private security firm, Base SAN Security Nigeria Ltd, to bolster the fight against criminality in the state. The collaboration paid off when the joint patrol team uncovered the kidnappers’ den and freed their captives, some of whom hail from the eastern parts of the state.
Confirming the development, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, lauded the joint effort. He stated:
“The efforts of the Ododo Administration in engaging duly registered security outfits to work alongside conventional security agencies are yielding significant results.
“Base SAN Security Nigeria Ltd worked effectively with the Police to apprehend kidnappers who had been terrorizing the Ajaokuta area and its surroundings. Acting on credible intelligence, the team confronted the suspects, overpowering and arresting them while successfully rescuing ten victims from their custody.”
Fanwo emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property, noting that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is deploying extensive resources to keep the state secure. He declared:
“The Ajaokuta breakthrough is a warning to criminals across the state. The present administration is determined to make Kogi a safe haven for everyone. We are too central to Nigeria to fail the country in this regard.”
The commissioner commended the Kogi State Police Command and Base SAN Security Nigeria Ltd for their swift action and professionalism. He also confirmed that the suspects are cooperating with investigators and will face prosecution after further investigations.
The rescued victims are expected to be reunited with their families shortly, bringing relief to the affected communities.
