Tag Archives: Kidnappers

WARNING: Militants, kidnappers now disguise as security guards – Lagos Police

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The Lagos state police command has alerted residents of the new strategy deployed by militants and kidnappers.

According to Fatai Owoseni, commissioner of police in Lagos, kidnappers and militants have infiltrated private security companies, and use their jobs as security guards to spy on potential victims.

He advised estate managers and private guards to stop denying policemen and security agencies access to residential areas.

“Criminal elements and suspected militants/kidnappers have found themselves enlisted into services of private security companies where they choose the estates they want to go and work,” Owoseni said.

“It gives them platform to do monitoring and then give information to their cohorts outside. The command wants to advice Lagos residents on the need to profile domestic servants and drivers they employ.

“By doing that, they would be helping to secure themselves, protect valuables and assist the police in its quest to reduce crime to minimal level in Lagos.”

He said the police recently smashed a syndicate comprising of drivers who steal from their employers.

The police commissioner said four members of the syndicate have been arrested and they confessed that they have stolen five cars in that manner.

“They do so in connivance with guards in some of the houses they work as drivers. We got four members of the gang after a Hyundai jeep which was stolen from the owner’s home, was intercepted at Ondo state, en route Abuja,” he said.

“Through diligent investigation, kingpin James Jacob was arrested. During interrogation, three others were arrested. On a serial basis, they give out themselves as drivers. After working for the family for sometime, they steal the car or connive with guards.

“They have confessed that there are five other cars stolen in that manner. James Jacob has been paraded last year for a case of rape and stealing of vehicle. He raped his boss’ house help and stole the car. He was charged to court but unfortunately, he got bail and refused to learn his lessons.”

He said the gang also had government plate numbers which they use in selling stolen vehicles.

 

Source: The Cable

Weeks after Lagos took the decision, Bauchi also okays death penalty for kidnappers.

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Bauchi state government has signed into law, a bill which makes kidnapping now punishable with death or life imprisonment.

Ibrahim Umar , the state attorney-general and commissioner for justice, made this known on Tuesday while briefing journalists in the state.

Umar said Mohammed Abdullahi, governor of the state, assented to the bill on Monday.

“Whoever is guilty of the offence of kidnapping shall be punished with life imprisonment,” Umar said.

“If the victim dies as a result of the kidnapping, the offender shall be punished with death.”

Umar said whoever “seizes, confines, tricks, abducts or carries away” anybody and holds to ransom or otherwise with or without a weapon, would be seen as commiting the offence of kidnapping.

He said the state government had also signed into law, a bill for provision of free emergency treatment to accident victims within 24 hours of occurrence.

Umar said the government would provide for each public hospital, an accident and emergency unit, intensive care unit and a blood bank equipped with personnel and effective communication gadgets.

“The law states that the state government shall provide funds and logistics for joint patrol of the hospital management board and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for rescuing accident victims in the three senatorial districts of the state,” Umar said.

“Any government hospital that fails to accept an accident victim shall have its officers on duty that day punished according to civil service rules, including reduction in rank.”

He said that the law applied to all accidents, including domestic fire, industrial fire, plane crash, flood disaster, snake bite, dog bite, rainstorm, bomb blasts and gunshot.

On the fisheries bill, Umar said the law is to regulate fisheries in order to promote a healthy lifestyle and ensure that fishes would be free from contamination.

On February 1, the Lagos state house of assembly approved death penalty for kidnappers whose victims die in their custody, and life imprisonment in situations where victims do not die.

 

Source: The Cable

JUST IN: Police, Kidnappers Exchange Fire In Epe Area of Lagos.

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Residents of Igbodu community in the Epe area of Lagos State were in the early hours of Tuesday jolted by a gun duel between some suspected kidnappers and men of the Nigeria Police.

Confirming the incident, a source in the Lagos State Police Command told Channels Television that the suspects opened fire on a team of policemen who were on patrol along the Epe axis, and riddled their vehicle with bullets.

One of the farmers in the area also told Channels Television that the gun battle broke out after some of the kidnap victims escaped when they noticed that six of the gang members had left the camp, leaving only two of them, whom they later overpowered.

On arrival at the camp and learning that their victims had escaped, the gang members reportedly went on rampage, attacking everyone they came across.

The kidnappers had on February 14 abducted five farm assistants and two members of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), who were guarding the farmers and requested for five million naira as ransom.

 

Source: Channels TV

Finally, kidnappers free students of Turkish school.

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The students and staff of Nigerian Tulip International Colleges (NTIC) in Ogun state, who were abducted 11 days ago, have regained freedom.

A source told TheCable that their abductors released them late Tuesday, but that the captives trekked for three hours before they could get to the school premises.

Cemal Yigit, spokesman of the school, confirmed the release of the students, saying they had reunited with their parents and family members.

“we wish to inform the general public that the kidnapped students and staff of the Nigerian Tulip International Colleges (NTIC) Ogun state, have regained freedom,” he said in a statement.

“The victims were released this evening after a painstaking collaborative effort by the relevant security agencies in the country.  The management of NTIC wishes to express our gratitude to the relevant security agencies for their efforts in securing the release of the three students, one Turkish teacher, a cook and three supervisors.

“We also wish to extend our appreciation to the government and good people of Ogun state for their support throughout the difficult period. The role of the Ogun state government is highly appreciated.

“Our special appreciation also goes to President Muhammadu Buhari, the Inspector General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, the Chief of Army Staff, and others too numerous to mention for their efforts.

“The students and teachers are doing fine and have reunited with their parents. We also wish to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the parents and guardians of NTIC Ogun, for their support all through the period.”

Earlier, Kayode Aderanti, assistant inspector-general of police (AIG) , zone 2, had given the assurance that they would be released within 24 hours.

Aderanti said this shortly after visiting former President Olusegun Obasanjo at his hill top residence in Abeokuta.

He said that he spoke with the leader of the search team and that he got a positive response from him.

He denied the reports that the families of the victims had been paying ransom, insisting that “no ransom has been paid”.

Aderanti urged residents of Ogun to partner with the police to ensure that lives and property were properly secured.

A day after the incident, Yigit had explained how the attackers invaded the school.

“At about 9.30pm local time on January 13, a group of people armed with dangerous weapons gained entrance to the girls’ section through different means and held hostage three female supervisors, a female cook, a female teacher (Turkish) and three students,” he had said.

“The school security noticed some movement on the CCTV camera at the girls’ section and promptly deployed security personnel and alerted the relevant security agencies in the area as customary. Upon hearing the security alarm activated and sighting our security personnel, the armed invaders opened fire on the security staff and managed to escape through a very dangerous route with the hostages.

“The security agencies are currently on their trail as the whole area has been cordoned off.”

 

Source: The Cable

Bauchi Police Invade Kidnappers’ Den, Rescue Victims

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On the 10/12/2016 at about 11:00hrs, following intelligence report, Police Patrol Team attached to Ganjuwa Division in collaboration with Danga security stormed a kidnappers hideout at Buzun forest in Ganjuwa L. G. A, of Bauchi State.

On sighting the police, hoodlums opened fire and a fierce gun battle ensued which lasted for more than an hour. As a result, two suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded while one Mustapha Sarkin Bindigan Gali, member of Danga Security, male of Gali hamlet via Soro ward, also sustained a gunshot injury.

However, two women hostages were rescued from the kidnappers and One Suspect was arrested. The rescued victims are,

1. Maryam Alh Shu’aibu female of Loyi hamlet and,
2.Hauwa’u Karfe female of Buzum hamlet all in Nasarawa ward of Ganjuwa LGA of Bauchi State.

The following exhibits were also recovered,
(1) One k2 rifle with beech no. 2016576,
(2) One magazine,
(3) Fifteen(15) rounds of live ammunition and other incriminating items.

Meanwhile, all the Casualties including the rescued victims were taken to General hospital Kafin Madaki for medical attention were the two Suspected kidnappers and One member of Danga Security were certified dead by a medical doctor, while the rescued victims are in stable condition.

Finally, Corpse of the slain Danga security member was released to his relatives for burial after postmortem examination was conducted.

Case under investigation and efforts are being intensified to apprehend other fleeing suspects and bring them to Justice.

The Command appreciate Members of the public for its cooperation and urged them not to relent in providing useful information to enable the Police provide Safety and Security in the State.

SP Haruna Mohammed,
Ag PPRO Bauchi State Police Command.

Police arrest suspected kidnappers of Dangote employees

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The Nigeria police have arrested three suspected kidnappers said to be responsible for the abduction of five expatriate workers of the Dangote Group.

A statement released, Tuesday, by the Force spokesman, Don Awunah, said the suspects, arrested between November 27 and December 3 by the IGP Intelligence Response Team (IRT), have confessed to crime.

The suspects have also confessed to the murder of Istifanus Gurama, another Dangote worker who transported a N5.6 million ransom to them for the release of their victims, the police said.

The kidnap victims were said to have been set free after the suspects collected the money.

The police gave the names of the suspects as Abubakar Gide, 24; Abdullahi Salihu, 22; and Babuga Adamu, 25.

Mr. Gide was arrested in Ijebu Igbo, Ogun state, while Mr. Salihu and Mr. Adamu were arrested in Epe Forest, Lagos state and Ajase Ipo Forest in Kwara state respectively, the police said.

The suspects, according to the police statement, led the IRT operatives to Apoje River where the body of Mr. Gurama was recovered.

The police said they have also recovered three AK47 rifles, six AK47 magazines and 160 rounds of ammunitions from Ijebu Igbo Ogun Forest, said to be the gang’s hideout.

The police said they were making effort to arrest other members of the gang.

Meanwhile, the police have advised Nigerians to be careful when negotiating ransom with kidnappers.

“It is imperative, (that) relations of kidnap victim(s) should exercise considerable restraint in negotiating and paying ransom.

“It is absolutely important the negotiators of ransom should have confidence in the police.”

Police intercept ‘heavily armed kidnappers’ in Rivers

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The police say they have intercepted a four-man gang of “heavily armed” kidnappers in Rivers State.

The incident, which the police described as a major breakthrough, occurred along Azikiwe Road, Port Harcourt, on November 29, according to a police statement released on Thursday.

The suspected kidnappers were allegedly on their way to carry out criminal operation when they were intercepted by the Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT), acting on “credible intelligence and public support”.

One of the suspects was arrested, while three others were fatally wounded during a gun battle with the police, said the statement issued by the Force spokesman, Don Awunah.

The police gave the name of the arrested suspect as James Peter, a 30 year-old man said to be from Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. He is said to be cooperating with the police in the investigation into the criminal activities of the gang.

The police said the gang was notorious for terrorizing the waterways in Rivers and Bayelsa states.

The police said it recovered one General Purpose Machine Gun, one AK-47 riffle, chains of GPMG ammunition and two fully loaded AK-47 magazines from the suspects.

“The Inspector General of Police, IGP Ibrahim K. Idris, has once again enjoined Nigerians never to hesitate to provide the police with valuable information and assures them of renewed commitment on the part of the force in the fight against crime and antisocial behaviour,” the statement said.

Nigeria Military Troops Kill Three Suspected Kidnappers In Bayelsa.

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Troops from Operation Delta Safe, the Nigeria Military Task Force in the Niger Delta, killed three suspected kidnappers in a shootout with some suspected sea pirates and kidnappers in the waterways of Bayelsa and Rivers States.

 

The notorious gang, which had been terrorizing the waterways of both States, was intercepted by IRT operatives on Azikiwe Road in Port-Harcourt on their way to an operation.

 

One James Peters, from Southern Ijaw, was arrested, and he is currently telling security agencies about other members of the gang and the location of their weapons.

 

“The gang members, on sighting the IRT Teams, opened fire and engaged the operatives. Hence, three of the hoodlums were fatally wounded while one James Peter, a 30-year-old from Southern Ijaw, was arrested alive,” the statement continued.

 

The troops recovered one General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) with bridge number 132/095 and a chain of bullets, as well as one AK47 rifle with bridge number 0231, and two AK47 magazine fully loaded.

Kidnappers came for Mamman Daura, Buharis nephew, survivor reveals.

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The kidnap on Sunday of Nigeria’s former minister of foreign affairs, Bagudu Hirse, in Kaduna was that of mistaken identity, a witness has said.

The ex-minister, who was in Kaduna on a condolence visit over the death of former Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki, was kidnapped at the gate of Mamman Daura, a nephew of President Muhammadu Buhari, along Inuwa Wada road in Kaduna.

A victim of the attack, who was travelling with the minister, Samuel Pukat, said the abductors actually came for Mr. Daura.

Mr. Pukat, a relation of Mr. Hirse, and some witnesses told PREMIUM TIMES that the incident occurred around 9:35 a.m. on Sunday.

Mr. Pukat, in a telephone interview with our reporter, said the kidnappers stormed the residence of Mr. Daura in two Toyota Corolla cars and “dispersed” all the security details at the house.

He said the kidnappers were eight in number, four in each of the two vehicles with sophisticated guns.

“We were right by Baba Mamman Daura’s gate on a visit to condole him over the death of former Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki.

“The ash Corolla car of the kidnappers rushed and blocked our car as the gate to the house was opened for us to enter.

“We had already written our condolence note to be handed to Baba (Daura) whom we were told was getting ready to go out for an appointment; before one of his aides identified us and asked that we be allowed in to see Baba(Daura) as soon as he finishes taking his bath.

“Then all of a sudden, the kidnappers in an ash colour corolla car rushed and overtook our car, four masked gunmen jumped out of the car and made for the compound.

“One of them from the second Corolla car behind us shouted at the other group to come back. He pointed at Baba (Hirse) who was ordered to come down from the car.

 

hirse

 

“They mistook Baba (Mr Hirse) for Baba Mamman Daura because he is putting on the same traditional white native dress Baba(Daura) usually wears,” Mr. Pukat said.

Continuing, Mr. Pukat said the kidnappers started shooting sporadically into the air.

“They kicked me with their hard boots and I fell inside culvert as they abducted Baba (Mr. Hirse) and his driver.

“What surprised all of us was that the security details at Baba(Daura) residence fled the scene scampering for safety with all other people around when the kidnappers pulled over and started shooting sporadically in the air,” he said.

Sources, including Mr. Pukat, said Mr. Daura was in the House with the Chief of Staff to President Buhari, Abba Kyari, and a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Baba Gana Kingibe.

They said the three men were “visibly disappointed with the action of the security details”.

“In fact , it is even the ordinary civilian gate man that came and closed the gate after the incident,” Mr. Pukat said.

He also disclosed that the abductors were yet to contact the family for any possible ransom demand.

Another witness said the kidnappers asked Mr. Hirse to get into their car. He initially resisted and was trying to seek further explanations from them, the witness said.

“At that time, people started approaching the scene, so one of the kidnappers raised the gun he was holding and made to shoot but it did not fire, he tried it the second time and it failed, but the third time, a shot rang and people ran for their lives. The whole thing was like a movie scene,” the witness said.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Cyril Abeh, and the State Director of the State Security Service arrived the scene after the abduction and were sighted inside Mr. Daura’s residence.

Our reporter also observed heavy security around Malali, Ungwan Rimi, and around major roads within the metropolis.

Meanwhile, a report by the News Agency of Nigeria, Monday, said the abductors had made contact with Mr. Hirse’s family.

Mr. Pukat confirmed the report.

“They first reached me; it was Hirse’s voice that was on the line before the abductors took over,” he said.

Mr. Pukat, however, refused to give details of the discussions with the abductors.

Police Arrest 248 Suspected Kidnappers, Others in Bayelsa

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The Bayelsa State Police Command says it has arrested no fewer than 248 suspects in connection with kidnapping, armed robbery, murders, rape, cultism, among others in the state.

The State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adeyemi Ogunjemilusi, who made this known on Thursday during the parade of scores of suspected criminals, said the hoodlums were apprehended from July till date.

The commisssioner also said 151 cases of the arrests had been charged to court.

Giving breakdown of the arrests, Ogunjemilusi said two suspects, David Sunshine and Otuogba Usio, both males, were part of a four-man gang that invaded Sagbama town and kidnapped a 78-year-old man, Dennis Ogazi.

He said investigation led to the arrest of Sunshine and Usio on October 29 and they confessed to the commission of the offence and that the victim died in their camp at Enwe community in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The commissioner said investigation was ongoing to effect the arrest of two other suspects and recover the remains of the deceased septuagenarian.

Ogunjemilusi said five suspected armed robbers had on July 23 broke into the house of Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro of High Court II, Yenagoa, held him and his family captive, collected his ATM card under duress and went to withdraw some money from his account.

He said the suspects, whose names were Ayakeme Ebikie, Frank Pere, Chimezie Ibekwe, Ogoli Stephen, and George Ovede, later carted away the Judge’s Plasma TV set, handsets and other personal items.

He stated, “I am glad to inform you that all the members of the criminal gang have been arrested. Investigation revealed that they were responsible for other robberies.

“The same group on August 22, 2016, at 2.30am broke into the house of Hon. Tolumoye Bikikoro and robbed him of his TV set and handsets. One locally made pistol was recovered from them as well as home theatre, DVD player, mobile phones of the Judge.”

He also said that some suspects who had been on the wanted list were on October 30 arrested at Etegwe and Bolex Car wash respectively for the killing of two policemen, Sergeant Sagbe Owori and Corporal Nanagha Ekeiweri.

He said while Owori was killed at Bossy Waters along Tombia-Amassoma Road on January 19, 2014, Ekeiweri of the Department of Operations, Yenagoa was killed on November 24, 2014, after which they took away his Assault rifle 06 with breech number 0702754330 and 30 rounds of ammunition.

He said items recovered from the suspects, James Kalaye and Austin Olozulu, were one Brownie pistol and locally made pistol.

The commissioner further said that four suspects gang-raped a 19-year-old girl on September 13, 2016.

He said the suspects: Godwin Governor, 20, Kingsley Akpas, 21, Ebikewenemor Aripamone, 18 and Harrison Eribo carried out the dastardly act in the house of Governor in Tungbo, Sagbama, who allegedly lured the victim.

He said the victim had already identified the suspects.

Ogunjemilusi said three cases of defilement were also recorded during the period.

How we foiled kidnapping of Femi Otedola – Police

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Operatives of Nigeria Police Force have foiled an attempt to kidnap a Nigerian oil magnate, Femi Otedola.

 

The IGP’s Intelligence Response Team (IRT) accomplished this task when it arrested a three-man notorious kidnap gang on the 23rd June, 2016.

 

According to Force PRO, Don Awunah, the arrest was achieved through coordinated intelligence gathering and deployment of technical investigative tools that spanned several weeks.

 

“The Principal suspect, one Ikechukwu Daniel, a 28 year old indigene of Imo State, who is the mastermind of the gang, was rusticated from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria due to his cult related activities on campus in 2009/2010.

 

He also doubles as the IT guru of the kidnap gang with mastery of Computer applications. He made damning revelations of their criminal exploits in the South West of the Country.

 

‘Another member of the gang, 29 year old Adeyemi Kayode, a serving officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence corps and a native of Ojoo in Ibadan, Oyo State serves as a Personal Assistant to the Commandant, NSCDC Oyo State Command. The suspect took undue advantage of his office to obtain the GSM number and location of their would be victim. He hatched the plan on how to kidnap the business magnate to make a demand of one billion naira ransom.

 

“The third suspect, Ayodele Temitayo, a native of Oyo in Ibadan, Oyo State who is the marksman and armourer of the gang, claimed to have been dismissed from 213 Battalion Maiduguri of Nigeria Army as a Private in 2015.

 

“All the suspects made confessional statements revealing that they had successfully carried out several high-profile kidnappings and two AK47 rifles loaded with live ammunition were recovered from them.

 

“While efforts are currently being intensified to apprehend other members of the gang and extend investigation to their other criminal enterprise, the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim K. Idris, wishes to restate the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to clamp down on all criminal activities across the country and reassures law abiding citizens that criminal elements would be eventually apprehended and charged to court.

 

“The IGP urges Nigerians to avail the Police with relevant information that will help in the crusade against crime; as such information would be treated with utmost confidentiality,” Awunah stated.

How I became a millionaire through kidnapping – Suspect

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Joshua Okoh, a suspected kidnapper has narrated how he became a millionaire while engaging in kidnappings.

Okoh made the confession when he was paraded by Police in Asaba, Delta State.

The suspect said he was planning to open a private business when he was caught by the police.

He said, “Kidnapping is like a business to me. Lack of job and bad economy forced me into crime. I chose kidnapping because that is what I can do best. Now I am in trouble; but since I started this business, I’ve never killed anybody.

“What me and other gang members did was to just collect the ransom and let the person (victim) go. We did pity them, but we did not have any other option.”

“I have carried out about five successful kidnappings and my share ran into millions of naira. I bought cars with the money and proposed to establish a business before this arrest.

“It is not as if we liked the job, but we were forced into crime by rich leaders and brothers who do not help, but would rather exhibit wealth in your presence.”

“It will interest you to know that most people who are victims of kidnapping are set up by their own brothers and sisters who they refused to help, just like this one that led to our arrest. It was initiated by a brother of the woman she may have refused to assist.”

Okoh was arrested alongside Anthony Oren, (alleged to be the vigilante boss of Orhakpo community in Ughelli North Local Government); ThankGod Okeperhie and Clement Efanyobera.

Delta State Commissioner of Police, Zanna Mohammed Ibrahim said the suspects confessed to the crime.

He said they were arrested in connection with the abduction of a housewife, Mrs. Judith Osayande, in Warri.

Ibrahim said N1.8m of the N3m ransom has been recovered with the victim’s Toyota Camry with number plate BEN 825JA, two guns, 13 live cartridges, and one Honda Accord belonging to the suspect.

NSCDC rescues 3 children from Kidnappers in Abia.

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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Abia State command, has rescued three children (two female and one male of ages between 10 and 11), from the hands of kidnappers and ritualists in Abia state.

The victims whose names were not disclosed were rescued around Aba and Obingwa area of the state following a tip off

According to the command, the suspects were believed to have entered the state through neighbouring states of Rivers, Akwa-Ibom and Cross River with their collaborators in Abia State, disguising as scavengers.

The State Commandant, Walter Akubiro Chika, who spoke through the Corps’ Public Relations Officer, Uchenwa Oliver, disclosed that the criminals often disguised as scavengers at refuse dump sites at Aba and Obi-Ngwa areas of the state to execute their criminal act.

“They mesmerized teenagers coming to dump refuse in the areas, tie them with iron binders in an uncompleted building within the areas in anticipation of ransoms from their would-be buyers”, he? said.

The state commandant lamenting the rate of such cases in the state and appealed to the general public, particularly parents, to be watchful of their children, especially when they send them on errands.

Nororious Kidnappers, Including A Lady, Caught While Trying To Collect Ransom

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Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Rivers State Police Command have smashed a kidnap gang responsible for numerous kidnap cases in Eleme area of the state.

Acting on a tip-off, the operatives were able to arrest Stanley Mgbiri ‘m’, Mkpowu Blessing ‘m’, and Micheal Hope ‘f’, who are serial kidnappers terrorizing the axis. The trio are responsible for the kidnap of a nine (9) year old girl, Miracle John, at Igbo Etche.

The suspects were arrested when they threatened to kidnap one Mr. Osato Nwakaji from Onne. They asked him to pay the sum of N3million into a certain bank account. They threatened to kidnap him as they did to a certain staff of NNPC whom they collected a ransom of N12million from and yet killed the man.

As a bait, the sum of N100,000 was paid into the account and when they went to withdraw it, police rounded them up and they were arrested.
The guys and lady are presently in Police custody and the suspects will be charged to court.

Troops kill four suspected kidnappers in Bauchi.

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Troops of the 33 Brigade Forward Operations Base, Burra in Bauchi State killed four suspected kidnappers on Monday.

According to a statement by the Army spokesman, Colonel Sani Usman, in Abuja on Tuesday, the troops killed the suspects after they laid ambush for them following a tip off.

Usman said the incident happened at Sabon Kura village in Ningi Local Government Area of the state.

Usman said: “The kidnappers were on their way to Diwwa village for kidnapping.

“The troops engaged the kidnappers and after exchange of gunfire, four kidnappers were confirmed dead.”

He said three Dane guns, one cutlass, three handsets, some quantity of hard drugs and local charms were recovered from them.

Photos Of The Kidnappers Of CBN Governor’s Wife & The Recovered N15M

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The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) Today, parades the suspected kidnappers of CBN governors wife at an ongoing press briefing in Abuja.

Earlier on the wife of the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mrs. Margaret Emefiele was recently kidnapped along the Benin-Asaba highway.

We gathered that Mrs. Emefiele was waylaid by the gunmen around Ugoneki town along the Benin-Asaba expressway in Edo State.

She and other persons taken were later released following a massive police operation in the area.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Governor Godwin Emefiele expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and security agencies for the rescue of his wife, Mrs Margaret Emefiele.

 

 

Kidnappers Demand N1.2bn To Release Lagos Landlords

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The kidnappers of four residents of an Estate in Isheri, a border community between Lagos and Ogun states, weekend, demanded N1.2 billion ransom for their release.

Reports gathered that they made contacts with family members of the victims, suspected to be held hostage in the creeks, yesterday.

The victims, Mr. Kennedy Ucheagwu, Dr. Omololu, Bello and Mr. Esang, said to be landlords at Oshorun Heritage Estate, had gone for an aerobic section, Saturday, when eight masked gunmen in military camouflage intercepted them, shooting sporadically.

While others managed to escape, same could not be said for the victims, as they were whisked away
in boats through the waterways.

One of the relatives of the abducted men, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told reporters yesterday: “I got a call very early yesterday, where the unknown caller informed that he was one of the kidnappers that took our people away on Saturday.

“He warned that in our interest and for the safety of the victims, we should not contact the police or try to play smart.

“He said anything of such would lead to the death of our people. He did not allow me to speak with my person, as he claimed that he was sleeping.

“He said that we should get N1.2 billion before they would be released. He also told me to meet with relatives of the other people. He called back about four hours later to find out if the money was ready.

“He also asked if I had my own N300 million for the release my relation. I begged him to accept N200,000, as that was the only money we could afford, except he wants us to go and start borrowing or sell our property.

“But the line went dead at that point. Where do we get that kind of money at this time? My worry is that my relative is hypertensive.”

Meanwhile, Assistant Inspector-General of Police in-charge of Zone 2 Command, Lagos, Abdulmajid Ali, has deployed a Tactical Rescue Team to rescue the victims.

Alli explained that the team comprised police operatives and ICT experts from the Lagos and Ogun states commands, as well as those from the Force headquarters, Abuja. The team, according to Ali, who condemned the act, had been directed to rescue the victims unhurt as well as arrest perpetrators of the act.

He assured the affected relatives and residents of the area of timely and successful rescue operation, adding that police had clues.

Ali also appealed to relations of the victims to support police with useful information that would enhance the rescue operation, adding that he was working with the Commissioners of Police in Lagos and Ogun states and other stakeholders to ensure the rescue of the victims and to sustain the fight against crimes within the commands.

Source :

http://punchng.com/kidnappers-demand-n1-2bn-release-lagos-landlords/

Crocodile Smile: Troops Destroy 74 Illegal Refineries, Kidnappers Camp In Niger Delta

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The Nigrrian Army said on Friday that its troops of 2 Brigade, conducting field training exercise code named “Operation CROCODILE SMILE” have within the last 48 hours discovered and destroyed 74 illegal refineries in Niger Delta.

The Army said also that quite a number of militants and kidnappers camps in various parts of Rivers and Bayelsa States using swan buggy and other specialists equipment were destroyed.
A statement signed by Col Sani Usman giving details of the operations said “On Wednesday, 7th September 2016 troops of Sub-Sector Bravo in response to a tip off on the presence of suspected kidnappers at Akupoku community, carried out a raid at the location.

“But no arrest was made as the kidnappers have fled the area.

“However, the team also raided Ke community, at the verge of the Atlantic ocean where they discovered and destroyed an illegal refinery. “The troops recovered and destroyed 3 large cooking pots and 20 tanks filled with illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO).

“Similarly, another set of troops also discovered and destroyed another illegal crude oil refinery at Bile.

“Items recovered and destroyed include 12 large refining cooking pots, “The troops exercising along Abonnema axis were also informed of the presence of suspected kidnappers at Abakrikri Fishing Pot, they swung into action and carried out cordon and search operation, however, no contact or arrest was made.

“The troops of 130 Battalion also raided suspected kidnappers camp at Awukiri.

“Although no contact was made, the troops recovered an AK-47 rifle empty magazine, 6 face masks, 1 machete and several empty shells of expended ammunitions.The troops destroyed the camp.

“The troops have also intensified search for the kidnappers nests and other criminal elements camp for clearance”.

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http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/09/crocodile-smile-troops-destroy-74-illegal-refineries-kidnappers-camp-niger-delta/

Soldiers Kill 2 Suspected Kidnappers In Abia

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Soldiers attached to the 144 Battalion, Asa Ukwa West council area of Abia State have killed two kidnappers as their gang made to escape from a foiled kidnap operation at Umukanma village in Ugwunagbo council area.

The gang which specializes in kidnapping and armed robbery operates between Abia and Akwa Ibom States, is suspected of being behind the death of a respected elder in the community whom they accused of divulging information about their activities to the security agencies.

A source at the battalion stated that their investigations revealed that one of the leaders of the group, identified as Okechukwu broke out from his former gang and formed a new one with which he carried out kidnapping and armed robbery attacks in the area.

It was gathered that other members of the gang including one Amarachi, suspected to be the cook and informant to the gang have also been declared wanted.

Attempts to get the reaction of the Army Public Relations Officer, 14 Brigade, Ohafia, Major Sidney Mbaneme, proved abortive.

However, a soldier at the 144 Battalion disclosed that efforts were on top gear to arrest the fleeing gangsters.

Lagos To Seize Properties Used By Kidnappers

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The Lagos State Government yesterday warned that it will not hesitate to confiscate houses and hotels used as hideouts for kidnapping and other criminal activities.

Commissioner of Police Mr. Fatai Owoseni, who read the riot act while briefing reporters after the State Security Council meeting presided over by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, said the government was poised to eradicate the menace of kidnapping and militancy.

He said: “The take away for today after the Security Council Meeting is for us to look at all the strategies that we have been employing in tackling the security challenges that we had in the state and to further strategise with the view to sustaining those measures that would put all the criminal elements in check.

“The Security Council has come out to let our people know emphatically that the state is more poised at tackling all the criminal challenges and making sure that all the criminal elements that are going about will not be allowed any free reign; they will not be given freedom of space to practice any of their criminal acts.

“There is no hiding place for criminal elements again and as we get them, they would be made to face the full wrath of the law.

“In addition to that, the Council resolved that any structure or any places of hiding that criminal elements are using, the state will not hesitate, in the interest of the public, to take over those safe havens, structures or houses,” he said.

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Lagos to seize properties used by kidnappers

Kidnapped UNIPORT Lecturer Gains Freedom

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Dr Reginald Ohiri, a lecturer in the department of Biochemistry at the University of Port Harcourt, who was abducted on Monday, has regained his freedom. The kidnappers released him on Tuesday night when they discovered that he was not their target.

 
Spokesperson for UNIPORT, Dr. William Wodi, said not only has the lecturer regained his freedom but he has also reported to school. There was however no confirmation on whether ransom was paid. Dr Ohiri just informed him that it was a case of mistaken identity and the kidnappers allowed him to go.

 

Kidnappers Of Lagos RCCG Pastor Demand N100m Ransom

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The kidnappers of Kayode Bajomo, a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Santos bus stop, Isawo in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State have demanded a ransom of N100m.

It learnt that the case had been transferred from the Owutu Police Division to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, Ikorodu, of the Lagos State Police Command.

It was reported on Monday that the kidnappers, who disguised as new church members, had around 7am on Sunday come into the church.

It was reported that the gunmen, after sighting the pastor, brought out weapons and ordered him to come with them, after which they disappeared into the creek.

There was confusion thereafter at the parish, which made the Sunday service to end abruptly.

One of the witnesses had said the gunmen, believed to be Ijaw militants, came into the church with bibles, and met the pastor and four other members.

Reports from the area on Monday,  provides that one of the family friends, who did not want her name in print, said the gunmen had demanded a ransom of N100m.

 “Those men have called. They are asking for N100m. That is a big worry. The pastor was cleaning the chairs on Sunday with a few members when the men came in. But God is in control,” she said.

Reporters observed the pastor’s wife and the wife of the area pastor, who were visibly distraught by the incident, gave their statements to the policemen at SARS.

A police source said that operatives had visited the church.

He said, “Police detectives were at the church till around 4pm. Soldiers are usually stationed in the vicinity. So, it was surprising that the pastor was abducted. The church is near a stream. There are about 30 members in the parish.”

Credit: Punch

Police Parade 11 Suspected Kidnappers Of Sierra Leonean Envoy

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The Nigeria Police Force on Tuesday paraded 11 suspected kidnappers of the Deputy High Commissioner of Sierra Leone to Nigeria, Maj-Gen. Alfred Claude-Nelson.

Claude-Nelson was kidnapped on June 30 along Kaduna-Abuja Road by suspected gunmen and freed on July 5.

Presenting the suspects, the Force spokesman, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Don Awunah, said that the suspects were arrested through coordinated police operation.

“In a coordinated operation based on intelligence and technical support, the intelligence Response Team of the Nigeria Police has smashed an 11-man kidnap gang.

“This coordinated operation led to the arrest of 11 members of the notorious gang that has been terrorising the North Central states of the country,” he said.

Awunah said that the gang’s mode of operation included mounting of road blocks on highways in military uniforms and surprise attacks on unsuspecting motorists.

Others include relocating their victims from one point to the other in the forest to avoid detection and arrest, he said.

Awunah said that items recovered from the suspects included three AK 47 rifles, three AK 47 rifle magazines with 90 rounds of ammunition as well as two sets of military camouflage.

Credit: Guardian

Navy Goes Tough On Kidnappers, Vandals In Niger Delta

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The Nigerian Navy has launched 25 gunboats to tackle the menace of kidnapping and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral, Ibok Ekwe Abas, said he inaugurated the gunboats in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to support naval operations against kidnapping and other criminalities in the maritime environment.

Abas, who spoke at the Headquarters of the Central Naval Command (CNC), Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Wednesday said active community participation was required to stamp out kidnapping and pipeline vandalism.

Abas spoke shortly after meeting with the senior officials and commanders of the CNC behind closed doors.

He said since kidnappers operate on land, live among people and return to the creeks with their victims, members of the public should furnish security agencies with information about such individuals.

He said: “What we expect from the members of the public is to cooperate with the security services not just the Navy alone by providing information because these guys who kidnap hideaway our brothers and sisters and they stay with us.

“While the Navy is not expected to be on these points at all the time, we expect that we have the cooperation from the members of the public. We have just launched 25 gunboats which will all go to support navy operations and as time goes on more boats are going to be inducted into the various creeks and operations. “

Credit: Nation

CAN Plans Spiritual Offensive Against Kidnappers

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Delta State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has warned kidnappers in the state to repent from the nefarious actions or be ready to face intense spiritual offensive from the ‘soldiers of Christ’.

The Christian body insisted that if the unholy act of kidnapping persists in the state, it will not hesitate to mobilize Christians for appropriate massive actions against herdsmen suspected to be perpetrators of the act.

CAN was specifically reacting to the recent kidnap and subsequent brutal murder of the Obi of Ubulu-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area, HRM Akaeze Ofolue III, as well as last weekend kidnap of the traditional ruler of Olomoro Kingdom in Isoko South Local Government Area, HRM Josiah Aghaza I.

In a statement signed by the state chairman of CAN, Rev. Gideon Oyibo and secretary, Rev. Ole Akokotu, the body said it was worried by the rising spate of kidnapping and condemned the dastard act in strong terms.

The statement also implored calling security agencies in the state to be alive to their responsibilities in nipping the re-occurring but ugly incident in the bud.

While condoling with the entire people of Ubulu-Uku Kingdom on the bizarre kidnapping and gruesome murder of Obi Ofolue III, the association declared intensive prayers for the quick release of the kidnapped traditional ruler of Olomoro Kingdom, Aghaza I.

Besides, the association called on all Christians and church leaders in the state to pray and fast regularly for the peace, security and safety of all traditional rulers, medical doctors, government officials, politicians, gospel ministers and all residents in Delta State.

The statement further enjoined youths in the state to continue to monitor activities of herdsmen in their respective domains and report suspicious and atrocious movements to the relevant authorities.

Credit: Sun

Kidnappers Abduct Governor Dickson’s Sister In Yenagoa

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Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted Nancy Dickson, a younger sister to the Bayelsa Governor, Seriake Dickson, the police have said.

Asinim Butswat, an Assistant Superintendent of Police and spokesperson for the Bayelsa Police Command, confirmed the development in a statement on Sunday.

According to Mr. Butswat, Nancy, 26, was kidnapped at her shop, located in Okaka Road, Yenagoa, the state capital, on Saturday..

It was gathered that the gunmen drove in an ash colour Lexus SUV, trailed Nancy to her shop and whisked her away to an unknown destination at about 2:50pm.

The police said shortly after the incident was reported, they mounted stop-and-search operations on vehicles at different parts of the city.

Nancy is however yet to be found.

Insecurity is a huge problem in the Bayelsa capital, with several kidnap incidents reported weekly despite the presence of the state’s security outfit, christened, Operation Door Akpo, at strategic spots in Yenagoa.

Credit: PremiumTimes

Lawmaker Begs Kidnappers To Release His 78 Year Old Mother

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Lawmaker representing Andoni-Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency and son of Madam Mabel Dagomie Abiante, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, has pleaded with the abductors of his mother, kidnapped at Ngo Town, Andoni local government, Rivers State, three weeks ago, to release her unconditionally owing to her deteriorating health condition.

Ma Abiante was kidnapped on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at about 8:30pm from her residence, at Ngo town headquarters of Andoni local Government area of Rivers state.

Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante whose his seat at national assembly was nullified by the Appeal Court made the passionate appeal to the kidnappers today in Port Harcourt.

The abductors have turned down all entreaties by the family of 78-year old woman, insisting that a ransom of N50 Million be paid or she would be killed even as her health worsens.

Before she was kidnapped, the septuagenarian was recuperating from a major surgical operation.

The kidnappers, who shot their way to the victim’s house, made their first contact with the family on Friday December 4, 2015, demanding N50m.

Credit: Vanguard

Suspected Kidnappers Sell Child For 700,000 Naira

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Nine persons suspected to be involved in the kidnapping of children for money have been arrested by the Police.

According to the police, the suspects kidnapped five children in Makurdi, took them to Umuahia, the capital of Abia State and sold one of the children for 700,000 Naira.

The Benue State Police Command in collaboration with the police in Abia State, traced and arrested seven of the kidnappers, including the child buyer who paid 700,000 Naira for one of the kidnapped boys.

The State Commissioner of Police, Mr Paul Yakadi, briefed reporters about the crime while parading the nine suspects and the rescued children before Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State.

Credit: ChannelsTV

After 42 Days In Kidnappers’ Den: Corps Member, Teachers, Guard Freed

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Exactly 42 days after being in the kidnappers den, a National Youth Corps member, three teachers and a security guard at the State Secondary School in Agban-Ndele in Ndele community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, have regained their freedom.

 

It was not clear at press time if ransom was paid and how much.

 

The Paramount ruler of Ndele community, Eze Godwin Iraowusi, confirmed the report Wednesday morning but gave no further details.

 

The corps member, three teachers and the guard were abducted on Monday, 12 October.

The kidnappers demanded a N50 million ransom which was slashed to N25 million and later reduced to N2.5 million for each each of the victims.

The suspected gang of kidnappers

The suspected gang of kidnappers

About a week ago, Iraowusi had revealed that the kidnappers had opened communication with the community through one of the chiefs and had reduced their demand to N12.5 million.

 

The Paramount ruler had insisted that Ndele is a poor community and cannot afford such a huge amount.

 

He pleaded for unconditional release of the victims who had suffered enough for a month for the sake of God and humanity.

 

Those kidnapped were Joseph Dimkpa, Martina Ofuru, and Charity Mbajike, all teachers; a member of the National Youth Service Corps, Obinna Duru, and a security guard, Jonathan Woforu.

 

Duru missed participating in the passing out parade held across the country about three weeks ago.

 

Credit : PM News

Kidnappers Of Samson Siasia’s Mum Demand N150 Million Ransom

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The abductors of the 72 year old mother of U-23 National team Coach Samson Siasia, Madam Beauty Siasia, has demanded N150 million ransom for her safe return.

The younger brother of Samson, Moses Siloko Siasia, who is also the Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM), in the December 5 election, made the disclosure while speaking with The Guardian in Yenagoa.

Moses disclosed that the family had opened channel of communication with the criminals. “We are communicating with them (abductors). It shall be well, we are dealing with it,” he said.

When asked if he thinks the abduction was targeted at his mother in order to distract him, he said: “If that was the plans, then it is bound to fail because I am now stronger in my resolve to come tops in the forthcoming Governorship election.

The old women was abducted on Monday in the riverside town of Odoni, Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State by about three gunmen who stormed the community in a commando-style operation on motorcycles.

Her abduction occurred less than 24 hours after a leading Ijaw musician, Grandmaster Pereama Freetown, was kidnapped by some yet to be identified gunmen at Polaku in Yenagoa.

The Inspector General of Police, Solomon Aranse assured yesterday that the police was working round the clock to ensure the safe release of Siasia’s mother.

Gunmen In Bayelsa Kidnap Pastor, Demands N300m As Ransom, N200k As Money For Phone Calls

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A pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, New Anointing Chapel in Yenagoa, Bayelsa, Mark Christmas, has been kidnapped by unknown gunmen in his hometown.

The pastor’s wife, Evelyn Christmas, said her husband was kidnapped with two other persons on October 18.

She said the incident happened in their hometown, Biseingbene, Ekeremor Local Government Area, Bayelsa. Mrs. Christmas said her husband was invited to the community for a meeting by unknown persons on the fateful day.

“When he got to the community, he found out that the invitation was not only false but a devilish plan to kidnap him,” she said.

Mrs. Christmas said the pastor had stayed over two weeks in their custody as they demanded N200, 000 for all their phone calls and N300 million as ransom.

“It is over two weeks and I have not heard or seen my husband but some of our family members, who live in the village, told me that they spoke with them.

“I planned to contact the police, but the family members said that I should not involve the police to avoid incurring more danger.

“The reason is that my husband might be killed by the hoodlums if the police is involved in the matter,” she said.

Mrs. Christmas described the situation as ”very painful”.

She said she prays her husband comes home alive.

The Police Public Relation Office in Bayelsa, Asinim Butswat, said the family had not reported the matter to the police.

“They have not reported the incident to us, but if they come to us, we are ready to mobilise ourselves,” Mr. Butswat said.

Falae Identifies Kidnappers, 5 Docked

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Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Olu Falae, who was kidnapped by Fulani herdsmen on his 77th birthday and released after paying N5m ransom four days after, has identified his abductors who were paraded before him by the police.

Falae on Tuesday, identified three of the suspects as those who kidnapped him and threatened to kill him if he failed to pay the ransom. Chief Falae, according to a police source, also identified one of the kidnappers who was kind to him.

This came as the Police, Wednesday evening, recovered N137m from robbers who raided a new generation bank on Trans-Amadi Road in Port Harcourt.

Read More: vanguardngr

Police Arrest Olu Falae’s Kidnappers

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Five out the 12 men who abducted the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Chief Olu Falae, have been arrested.

Though, the police were yet to confirm the arrest of the suspects as at the time of filing this report, a competent source close to the family told ThisDay that three of the suspects were arrested yesterday in Niger State.

According to the source, the other two were arrested elsewhere within last week.

The source, who could not give further details about the arrest, said security operatives were still

hunting for other members of the gang.

He said the arrested suspects were being kept at the custody of Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) in Akure, Ondo State capital.

When contacted on the development, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Mr Femi Joseph, who neither denied nor confirmed the arrest, said it was the Inspector General of Police that can talk on  the matter.

“The IG had taken over all issues relating to Falae. The issue of Falae is a national issue that IG will speak on. The commissioner said it is a matter that only IG can speak on. The IG is likely to brief journalists on the matter tomorrow (Monday),” Joseph said in a telephone interview.

Falae, who is also a former Minister of Finance, was abducted on September 21 on his farm at Ilado village in Akure North Local Government Area but released 72 hours later.

I slept on bare floor for four days – Olu Falae narrates his ordeal

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A team of policemen led by the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase has rescued the former Secretary to the Government of Federation, Chief Olu Falae from his abductors.

 

Falae, who was kidnapped on Monday afternoon at his farm in Akure North local government area of Ondo State by suspected herdsmen, arrived the state Thursday morning, after being rescued the rescue team led by Solomon Arase.

 

Falae was later set free from the kidnappers’ den without paying any ransom.

 

 

Narrating his ordeal, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Olu Falae, said he slept on bare floor for the four days that he was held in kidnappers’ den.

 

In his discussion with the state Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, who paid him a visit at his Oba Ile residence, Falae said his abductors were unreasonable in their demand.

 

He said, “When I told the kidnappers that my family could raise N2m for ransom against the N100m they demanded, they rejected it and told me, ‘Is it Boko Haram you are giving N2m to?’”

 

After being released, the septuagenarian said he trekked several kilometers from his farm to a hotel in Owo town, where he met security agents that took him home.

 

Looking weary and frail, the former Minister of Finance arrived at his home at about 4.45pm in company with the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 11, Mrs. Kalafite Adeyemi, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mike Ogbodu, and other police officers from the state command and the Force headquarters, Abuja.

 

The elder statesman was welcomed back on arrival amidst cheers by scores of his friends, family and well-wishers.

 

Arase, who reportedly came to the state on the order of President Muhammadu Buhari to secure Falae’s release, said he was happy that the septuagenarian was rescued “hale and hearty.”

 

On how Falae was rescued, the IG said, “I cannot tell you, it is not for you. It is purely a security matter, but I am happy he is rescued alive.

 

“The most important thing is that baba has come home safely, that is the mandate the President has given to me and that is exactly what I have done.

 

“On the arrest made in connection with the crime and the amount paid as ransom, the police boss said, “I will let you know about arrest later, but no ransom was paid.”

 

Expressing his delight over the release of Falae, the state Governor Mimiko, said there was a need to tackle the issue of security in a wider dimension.

 

“We thank God he is back, but one is also worried that the issue of kidnapping is taking another dimension. That somebody of Falae’s pedigree was taken away while working on his farm, is a very serious security challenge and I think we must tackle it in a wider dimension.” Mimiko said.

 

The Force Public Relations Officer, Olabisi Kolawole, also said the family did not pay any ransom to the kidnappers.

 

She added that no member of the kidnapping gang had been arrested yet.

 

She said, “The chief has been reunited with his family members. The IG went to the Ondo State command on Thursday to coordinate the release of the chief. He was rescued in Owo town.

 

“There was no ransom paid before he was released. He was rescued from the gang. As of now, the police are working on arresting the suspects, and they will be brought to book. We do not have any suspect presently.”

I Slept On Bare Floor, Falae Shares His Ordeal With Kidnappers

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The former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Chief Olu Falae, was released yesterday afternoon by his abductors, three days after he was kidnapped from his farm in Ilado, Akure North Local Government Area in Ondo State.

President Muhammadu Buhari had ordered Arase and the security agencies to rescue Falae, who was also once a Finance Minister. On arrival yesterday, Arase led other police officers including the Commissioner of Police for the Ondo State Command, Mike Ogbodo, to comb the Government Forest Reserve close to Falae’s farm.

The police were later to pick Falae from Owo, where he was let go by his abductors. Falae, who walked into the hands of his family and a jubilant crowd that had been waiting since morning for his arrival, wore a white caftan with a blue cap.

His neat appearance suggested that he changed to clean clothes after he was picked by the search team. The IG, who left Falae’s house immediately for Abuja, said the crime was a global issue. When asked about the operation, Arase said it was a security matter that could not be disclosed.

Speaking on his ordeal, Falae said he slept on bare floor for the three days he was in captivity.

Falae, who looked frail, said it was hellish being in captivity, particularly in the kidnappers’ den. In a brief recount, Falae said when he told his abductors that his family could raise N2 million only as ransom, they rejected it, replying: “Is it Boko Haram you are giving N2 million to?”

He thanked God that he had been released and expressed gratitude to his well wishers for their concern while he was in captivity.
Other early visitors to Falae’s residence after his release included the National Leader of Afenifere, Rotimi Fasonranti, among others.

Read More: thisdaylive

Falae’s Family Offers Kidnappers N2m As OPC Launches Manhunt

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Abductors of the former Minister of Finance, Chief Olu Falae, and the family have begun negotiations on the ransom demanded for the release of the septuagenarian who was kidnapped on his farm on Monday.

While the kidnappers reduced the ransom from N100 million to N90 million, the family said it was able to raise N2 million for his release.

But the abductors were said to have rejected the amount offered by the family.

A family source said the abductors called the family late on Monday night and insisted that the family should raise N90 million if they could not afford the N100 million demanded.

“At the time they called us on Monday night, they said they would only reduce the ransom to N90 million but we cannot afford that, so we begged them to accept N2 million and they rejected it.

“They said they would call us back today (Tuesday) but as at this moment, they have not called,” the source stated.

Similarly, the founder of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), Dr. Frederick Fasehun, has called for the immediate release of his birthday mate, Chief Falae.

Born on September 21 like Falae, a visibly agitated Fasehun, who became an octogenarian, said in Lagos yesterday that he had ordered OPC operatives to immediately launch a manhunt, combing all nooks and crannies of Ondo State and beyond for the kidnapped politician.

Read More: thisdaylive

Kidnappers Release Sun Deputy MD’s Wife

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Four days after Mrs. Oluwatoyin Nwosu, the wife of the Deputy Managing Director of Sun Newspaper, Mr. Steve Nwosu, was kidnapped from her Okota home, she was this morning released by her captors.

Details are still sketchy on how she was released and if the gang finally got their demands of N100 million as ransom.

Credit: thisdaylive

Sun DMD Speaks On How Kidnappers Abducted His Wife & Ransom Required

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The deputy managing director (DMD) cum editor-in-chief of The Sun Publishing Limited, Mr Steve Nwosu, yesterday told a pathetic story of how armed robbers attacked him and his wife, Toyin, before kidnapping her from their residence in Amuwo-Odofin local government area of Lagos State.

Nwosu explained that the robbers came at about 1.50am and after smashing the glass window and breaking the burglary proof of the house at Bale Street, Bashorun Ogundairo Estate, jumped inside the sitting room.

Nwosu said he heard a loud sound and when he went to the parlour, the robbers pointed guns at him.

The DMD said one of them pointed a pistol while the other pointed an AK-47 rifle at him. He said there was nothing he could do because he could not fight people with guns.

He said they slapped him and kicked him several times before ordering him to lie down on the floor.

He said they were stepping on his body as they demanded for money but unfortunately, he had no money in the house.

Nwosu further said the miscreants held his wife and took her to several rooms in search of cash but when they found out that there was no money in the house, they were enraged and decided to blindfold him.

He said they pushed him outside and later brought him back to the room and abducted his wife, adding that they flogged him with horsewhip.

He said as they were leaving, they asked if he could remember his phone number by heart and he said yes. They told him to call it, after which they said he would hear from them.

He said they took away two phones, laptop and other things but the third phone was covered by some items which prevented them from seeing it.

“The robbers were making funny demand of N100 million. We are still negotiating. They said they will call back , so I’m still waiting for them to call back. The robbers escaped in a speedboat through the waterway”, he said.

Read More: leadership

Cross River Legalises Death Penalty for Kidnappers

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Following the incessant spade of kidnappings in the country ,Cross River State Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade, monday signed into law a bill that prescribes death penalty for convicted kidnappers in the state.
The anti-kidnapping bill was one of 10 bills the governor signed into law at the state Executive Chambers witnessed by the Speaker and members of the state House of Assembly.

The law also empowers the state to seize assets as well as freeze accounts belong to convicted
kidnappers and those who aid and abet kidnapping in the state.

Free Man : Delta State Policemen Rescue Pastor From Kidnappers’ Den

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A joint team of police operatives from Otu-Jeremi, Ughelli South Local Government Area and NNPC area in Warri have rescued a pastor of a new generation church in Effurun from kidnappers’ den after he had spent some days in captivity.

It was gathered that the victim was rescued from a bush along ECN road, Otu-Jeremi following a tip-off.

The victim, our correspondent also learnt, was kidnapped by unknown gunmen at about 8:30 pm, along Keme Lane, off Jakpa road in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of the state.

It was reported that the victim was driven away in his ash-coloured Toyota Corolla and taken to an unknown destination.

State police commissioner, Mr. Alkali Baba Usman, said that based on intelligence report, detectives stormed the hideout of the hoodlums, and sensing that police were closing in on them, the suspects escaped into the bush and left the victim, who was rescued unhurt.

He said one white Mazda with registration number KMR216AA and five live cartridges were recovered from the hideout of the suspects.

CP Usman said efforts are being made to track down the suspects and to recover the victim’s vehicle which the suspects stole.

Gunmen Abducts Former Bayelsa Gov’s Wife

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Unidentified gunmen have kidnapped Madam Martha Binabo, the wife of former Speaker of Bayelsa State House of Assembly and the state former Acting Governor, Rt. Hon Nestor Binabo.

The incident, the latest in the series of high profile kidnaping in the state occurred at Agbura community in the outskirts of Yenagoa the state capital.

The victim, aged 48, was abducted Monday at about 11.30am by five armed men clad in military camouflage in front of a company where she is also the director.

File: Commissioner of Health, Dr. Benson Dadigi (left) explaining a point to the Ag. Governor of Bayelsa State, Rt. Hon. Nestor Binabo(centre) during an unscheduled inspection visit to the Melford Okilo Memorial Hospital under construction in Yenagoa, while Hon. Walaman Igurubia of the State House of Assembly (right) looks on.

The gunmen were said to have lured their victim outside the company’s gate for a talk only to force her into a waiting car and drove towards Otuokpoti sand dump.

The get away car was later abandoned and set ablaze at the Otuokpoti sand dump water front by the gunmen who escaped into the creek in a waiting speedboat with their victim.

Details later.

Kidnappers Demand AK-47, Machine Guns As Ransom

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The Rivers State Police Command has said that two suspected kidnappers have confessed that they demanded one AK-47 and 12 general purpose machine guns as ransom for the release of their victim, Mrs. Chinyere Olumma. Olumma was rescued on Friday, May 22.

The suspects, according to the state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ahmad Mohammad, had given the family of the victim an option of paying N50m as ransom or providing one AK-47 and 12 general purpose machine guns before their victim would be released.

Mohammad, who spoke with newsmen on Tuesday, disclosed that the hoodlums had initially collected the sum of N1m from Olumma’s family for the upkeep of their victim.

Luck, however, ran out of the two suspects as they were rounded up by the police in Abua as they shared the N1m meant for the victim’s upkeep. They were caught in one of the suspects’ room.

“It was sometime around 1am in the morning, they kidnapped one woman by the name Mrs. Chinyere Oluma from Erema in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area. They kidnapped her and then made contact with the family of the victim.

“They demanded N50m with an option of providing one AK-47 rifle and 12 RPMG, that is General Purpose Machine Gun. The kidnappers called the family of the victim to give them N1m for the upkeep of the victim and themselves. The N1m you see with them is the money they demanded for the upkeep of the victim and themselves. So, this money you are seeing is the N1m that was given to them. They (kidnappers) did not know we were tracking them after they received the N1m.

“So, we tracked and caught them at Abua. When our men got there, they were four and they were with the money before they were arrested. You can see the charms we recovered from them. On their way coming from their hideout, their colleague from behind opened fire on our men. Our men injured one of the hoodlums, who later died in a hospital and then, one of them escaped. The two we have here could not escape and out of the pressure mounted on them, they took our men to where they kept the woman (their victim) inside the bush near Egbeda,” Mohammad said.

Apart from the cash sum of N1m recovered from them, a rope used in tying their victim to a tree was also recovered from the suspected kidnappers.

However, one of the suspects, identified as Solomon Obigwe, said he never knew that his friend (Christian Enwe) was a kidnapper and that he was unfortunate to be with him (Enwe) and his friends when police struck. Obigwe, who was silent on the confession he made to the police, pleaded for forgiveness and promised to turn a new leaf.

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Two Cousins Of President Jonathan Have Been Kidnapped

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Two cousins of President Goodluck Jonathan, Patience Egbeni and Kate Eni, have been abducted by gunmen.

According to reports, they were both abducted on Tuesday morning at Akimpelai, Ogbia local government area in Bayelsa by six gunmen dressed in military camouflage.

The women are said to have been abducted from their provision stores located along the riverbank, forced into a waiting speedboat, where they were taken to an unknown location.

The incident, which occurred a few days to a grand reception being organized for President Jonathan on May 29, is said to have devastated the President’s extended family.

The source said: “The victims are two maternal cousins of the President. We know that they have been preparing to welcome the President after the May 29 handover. Unless they are rescued before then, their dream of welcoming their brother will be a mirage.”

When contacted by the Nation, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Butswat Asinim, said: “The gunmen were dressed in military camouflage. They went to the provision stores of the victims at the riverside and abducted them into a waiting speedboat.”

Asinim said the marine and anti-kidnapping squads of the police, including the Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation Pulo Shield, have been contacted on this issue.

Credit – ekeekeee.com

More Kidnappers Nabbed In Police Net

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Kano Command of the Nigeria Police has arrested three suspects in the state in connection with the kidnap of a four year old boy, Umar Aminu Ibrahim.

The three suspects, who were paraded at the Bompai Police headquarters of the police, on Thursday, included Aliyu Tasiu, Bello Wada and a female, Hajia Fauziyya Bello One other suspect, Hamisu SNU , according to the police, was still at large.

Briefing the press on the incident, Kano State Police Command’s spokesman, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Magaji Majiya explained that the said the gang leader, Bello Wada criminally conspired with the rest of the suspects to kidnap the minor.

He disclosed that the suspects abducted the boy on the 14th of April , 2015, at the residence of his grandmother in Tudun Wada, adding that Aliyu Tasiu, who is a family member, blocked the view of the boy’s grandmother as he was being taken away.by Bello Wada.

Read More: sunnewsonline