Yobe State Police Command Foils Kidnapping Attempt and Arrests Four Suspects in Potiskum
The Yobe State Police Command has announced the successful foiling of a kidnap attempt in Potiskum, resulting in the rescue of a 35-year-old victim and the arrest of four suspected members of a criminal syndicate. The operation, which took place late on Monday night, also led to the recovery of a Toyota Prado SUV allegedly used in the crime.
Late-Night Operation Based on Credible Intelligence
According to a statement issued by the command's spokesperson, Dungus Abdulkarim, operatives from the Potiskum Divisional Police Headquarters acted on credible intelligence at approximately 10:30 p.m. on Monday. They intercepted a suspicious Toyota Prado SUV that was exhibiting unusual movements within the Potiskum metropolis. This swift action prevented the abduction from being completed.
Details of the Victim and Abduction
The rescued victim has been identified as Abdulhamid Garba, a 35-year-old resident of the Nayi-Nawa Area in Damaturu. Preliminary investigations reveal that Garba was abducted in Damaturu by suspects who posed as security operatives. The suspects allegedly fabricated false allegations of graft and financial impropriety against him as a tactic to unlawfully detain, intimidate, and extort him before forcibly transporting him toward Potiskum in the hired vehicle.
Suspects and Their Modus Operandi
The police have named the four arrested suspects as Mohammed Usman, 32; Kabiru Ibrahim, 42; Idriss Abdullahi, 27; and Matthew Obata, 21. Investigations indicate that the abduction was masterminded by Usman in conspiracy with the others. The syndicate reportedly specialized in defrauding unsuspecting members of the public, particularly merchants, by disguising themselves as security personnel. All suspects claimed to be employees of Transworld Private Security Guard based in Kano.
Vehicle and Ransom Demands
The Toyota Prado SUV used in the operation was hired from Giwa Company in Kano at a cost of N400,000. The vehicle, bearing registration number ABJ 295 NB, was deliberately concealed to evade identification. The suspects allegedly demanded a ransom of N10 million from the victim's relatives, highlighting the severity of their criminal intent.
Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
The suspects were apprehended at the A.U. Kaifayi Filling Station in Potiskum Local Government Area along the Potiskum–Kano Road. The victim was rescued unharmed and taken to the Yobe State Specialist Hospital in Potiskum for a medical examination. Abdulkarim confirmed that the suspects have voluntarily confessed to the crime and are currently in police custody. Investigations are ongoing with the aim of ensuring diligent prosecution.
Commendation from Police Commissioner
Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Ado commended the officers involved for their gallantry and professionalism. He reassured the public of the command's unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Yobe State and urged continued cooperation through the provision of timely and credible information.
This incident underscores the persistent efforts of law enforcement agencies in Nigeria to combat kidnapping and related crimes, particularly in regions affected by security challenges.
