Police arrest eight suspected kidnappers, recover AK-47 rifles in Nasarawa raid

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested eight suspected kidnappers and recovered arms following a coordinated security operation in Rukubi Community, Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

The operation, carried out by operatives of the Nasarawa State Police Command alongside other security agencies and local vigilante groups, followed a reported kidnapping attack that threw residents of the community into panic.

According to the Police, the incident began on the night of May 6, 2026, when armed men invaded the Rukubi community, firing sporadically and terrorising residents.

The attackers were said to have stormed the homes of two residents before abducting two victims to an unknown destination.

In a statement issued on Thursday by Anthony Placid, Force Public Relations Officer, the police said a distress report received in the early hours of May 7 prompted an immediate security response.

The statement explained that police operatives, working in collaboration with other security agencies and community youths, swiftly mobilised to the area and launched coordinated operations that led to the arrest of eight suspects allegedly linked to the attack.

The suspects were identified as Adamu Alfa, Muhammed Alfa, Shuaibu Alfa, Usman Alfa, Ali Alfa, Isa Alfa, another Adamu Alfa, and Ja’afaru Alfa, all said to be from Rugan Alhaji Alfa in Rukubi Village.

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Security operatives also recovered two AK-47 rifles, four Bajaj motorcycles, and two expended 7.62mm ammunition shells believed to have been used during the attack.

The police further disclosed that one of the suspects sustained fatal injuries during an exchange with security operatives and was later confirmed dead while receiving medical treatment.

Reacting to the operation, Olatunji Disu, Inspector-General of Police, commended the officers involved for what he described as gallantry, professionalism, and commitment to tackling violent crimes across the country.

The IGP said the successful operation underscored the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and inter-agency collaboration in combating kidnapping and other forms of criminality.

He also praised the support provided by sister security agencies, local vigilante groups, community youths, and residents, noting that their cooperation contributed significantly to the success of the operation.

The police assured residents of Nasarawa State and neighbouring communities that efforts were ongoing to rescue the abducted victims and track down any remaining members of the criminal gang.