The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested 26 suspected kidnappers in a series of coordinated raids, recovering locally fabricated firearms, dangerous weapons, and some money paid as ransom by victims. A statement issued on Thursday by Mansir Hassan, the spokesperson of the Command, said the operation was carried out between October 3rd and 5th, 2025, in collaboration with operatives from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Anchau Division, and the Kaduna Vigilance Service (KADVIS).
The first breakthrough came on October 5, when six suspects, including a 21-year-old identified as Jibrin Abubakar a.k.a “Oga,” were arrested following credible intelligence. The statement said, “Investigations revealed that the group had kidnapped a 60-year-old man, Idris Adamu, from his home on September 22, and collected ₦5 million in ransom before releasing him.”
Hassan said more suspects were arrested during a brief gun battle in Gidan Sidi village, Anchau District.
They were identified as 31-year-old Yunusa Iliya and 55-year-old Malam Iliya. Two others involved in the kidnapping remain at large.
The statement listed the items recovered to include: Two locally fabricated pump-action guns; five empty cartridges; ₦546,000 in cash, believed to be part of the ransom payment, and various charms and amulets
According to the statement, “On October 3, operatives also arrested one Habibu Alhaji Ahmadu, known as Munyaye, in Ikara Local Government Area.
“He was found with two fabricated revolver rifles and confessed to masterminding a recent armed attack in the area.
“His alleged accomplices, known as Buhari and Shede, are still being pursued by the authorities.”
Hassan said further that, “Another major operation took place in Gazara Village, Makarfi LGA, on October 4, after police received actionable intelligence from a recently released kidnapping victim.
“Led by the Officer-in-Charge of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the team raided the area, arresting 14 suspects, including Bello Umar, who had previously faced kidnapping charges.
“An additional three suspects were picked up at the Toll Gate area, in possession of cutlasses and other weapons.”
The police spokesperson said, “all 26 suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue.
“Police are working to dismantle their wider networks and track down accomplices still on the run.”
The statement added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, commended the officers for their dedication and professionalism, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to eradicating kidnapping and violent crime across the state.
