The Ekiti State Police Command has achieved a significant milestone in the fight against kidnapping with the successful apprehension of suspects allegedly involved in the abduction of school children in Emure Local Government Area of the State. This development comes as a relief to the community, which has been reeling from the recent spate of abductions targeting innocent civilians.
During a recent operation, one of the suspects met his demise in a fierce gun battle with Ekiti state Police officers, highlighting the dangerous nature of the criminal syndicate involved in such heinous acts. The Ekiti State Police Commissioner, in a briefing with journalists, revealed that the apprehended suspects are believed to be part of a larger network responsible for numerous kidnapping incidents across the state. Notably, the syndicate was also behind the abduction of the All Progressives Congress Chairman, Mr. Paul Omotosho, in 2023, underscoring the extent of their criminal activities.
Swift Action and Dedication of Ekiti state Police Force
The success of this operation can be attributed to the unwavering commitment and tireless efforts of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Ekiti State Police Command. Led by their Commander, CSP Ogundola Marcus, the RRS has demonstrated exceptional bravery and proficiency in tackling organized crime within the state. Their decisive action in response to credible intelligence led to the timely intervention that prevented yet another kidnapping attempt.
In light of recent incidents, including the killing of two traditional rulers in Ikole-Ekiti and the abduction of school children and teachers in Emure-Ekiti, the Command has intensified its efforts to root out criminal elements from the state. The comprehensive investigation launched by the RRS culminated in the arrest of eight members of the kidnapping syndicate, with one member neutralized during the operation. The coordinated efforts of Ekiti state Police officers reflect a united front in the fight against crime and a firm commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
Continued Vigilance and Collaboration
While the apprehension of these suspects marks a significant victory For Ekiti police command, the battle against kidnapping and other forms of criminality remains ongoing. The Ekiti State Police Command calls for continued vigilance from members of the public and emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts in combating crime. By remaining vigilant and providing timely information to authorities, citizens can play a crucial role in thwarting criminal activities and safeguarding their communities.
As investigations continue and efforts to dismantle criminal networks intensify, the Ekiti State Police Command reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to upholding law and order. Through sustained collaboration with relevant stakeholders and the deployment of strategic measures, law enforcement agencies remain resolute in their mission to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure a safe environment for all.
Arrests Unravel Kidnapping Network
Upon receiving critical intelligence, Rapid Response Squad (RRS) operatives swiftly apprehended Abubakar Aliyu, also known as “Smallie,” who was gathering information on the whereabouts of expatriates. Smallie’s capture led to the identification of Sumo Karami as the leader of the kidnapping gang. Subsequently, two vigilante members, Saliu Ibrahim and Umaru Saliu, were arrested while attempting to secure Smallie’s release. Their cooperation led law enforcement to Mohammed Bashiru, the leader of the Miyetti Allah vigilante in Oro-Ago, Kwara State, who confessed to familial ties with Karami’s gang. Bashiru revealed chilling details of the gang’s activities, including the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Emure-Ekiti on January 29, 2024.
The investigation uncovered the gang’s modus operandi, which involved the use of AK47 rifles and other weapons to terrorize and kidnap innocent citizens. The recovery of the ransom phone further incriminated the gang, leading to the arrest of Yahaya Jubril and Usman Garba in Owo forest, Ondo State. Kenneth Ugwu, apprehended in Ibadan, Oyo State, confessed to his involvement in the abduction of five pupils, three teachers, and a driver in Emure-Ekiti, where one victim was tragically killed. Ugwu’s revelation prompted a raid on the kidnapper’s hideout within Agric Reserved Forest, resulting in a confrontation where one gang member, identified as Ayuba, was neutralized, and Smallie was captured alive. Other members managed to evade arrest, fleeing into the forest.
Ekiti state police command Intensified Efforts Lead to Further Arrests
Following Smallie’s capture, law enforcement intensified efforts to dismantle the kidnapping syndicate. This led to the apprehension of additional gang members, including Abubakar Mohammed, alias Smallie, who was captured alive during a gun duel in Agric Reserved Forest. However, several other members managed to evade capture, highlighting the ongoing challenge law enforcement faces in combating organized crime. Nevertheless, the arrests signify a significant breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping and violent crime in the region.
The collaborative efforts between RRS operatives and local vigilante groups demonstrate the importance of community involvement in combating criminal networks. Furthermore, the recovery of crucial evidence, such as the ransom phone, underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing strategies in disrupting criminal activities. Ekiti state Police command have pledged to continue their efforts to apprehend the remaining gang members and bring them to justice, offering hope to communities plagued by the scourge of kidnapping and violence.
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