Police foil kidnap plot, arrest three suspects in Nasarawa

The Nasarawa State Police Command has foiled a planned kidnapping in Karu Local Government Area and arrested three suspects allegedly linked to the plot, in what authorities described as a major breakthrough in efforts to curb criminal activity in the state.

According to the Command’s spokesperson, SP Ramhan Nansel, the operation followed a complaint lodged with the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, after unidentified persons allegedly threatened to abduct an agribusiness-woman and her children unless a ransom of N5 million was paid.

Police said the threat was reported on April 31, 2026, prompting immediate action by the Command.

In response, the Commissioner of Police in Nasarawa State, CP Shetima Jauro Mohamed, ordered what the Command described as a “comprehensive investigation” to prevent the abduction and bring those responsible to justice.

Acting on the directive, operatives launched an intelligence-led operation that led to the arrest of two initial suspects identified as Prince Eze, 19, and Marwan Salihu, 18, both residents of Agada Village in Karu Local Government Area.

Further investigation, police said, led to the arrest of a third suspect, Hassan Mathew Yerima of Keffi, who investigators believe coordinated the planned ransom collection for the group.

“The suspects are currently in police custody and are cooperating with investigators. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the criminal network and ensure they are brought to justice,” the police said in the statement.

The Command said the arrests represent part of its broader strategy to dismantle criminal syndicates operating within the state and prevent violent crimes before they occur.

The CP reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, urging members of the public to remain alert and report suspicious movements or threats to the nearest police formation.

“The Commissioner of Police reassures residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the State,” the statement added.