Abductors escape as authorities liberate four captives in Nasarawa

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The Nasarawa State Police Command says it foiled a kidnap attempt and rescued four victims during a tactical operation by police operatives attached to the Andaha Division in the Akwanga Local Government Area of the state.

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This was contained in a statement made available to journalists in Lafia, the state capital, on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel.

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According to him, the incident occurred on July 21, 2026, at about 9:40 p.m., following a distress call reporting that suspected kidnappers were operating around Megona Filling Station, Andaha, along the Akwanga-Jos Road.

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He explained that upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer immediately mobilised and led a team of operatives to the scene.

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“On sighting the police, the armed hoodlums opened fire on the operatives, leading to a gun duel. However, the police responded with superior tactical firepower, forcing the criminals to abandon their victims and flee into the surrounding bush with varying degrees of injury.

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“The four kidnapped victims were rescued unhurt, while several provisions believed to have been stolen from a nearby provision store were recovered and taken into police custody.

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“The Commissioner of Police, Nasarawa State Command, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, PSC, mnips, has commended the gallantry and swift response of the operatives, describing the rescue as a testament to the command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.

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“The commissioner has ordered an intensive manhunt for the fleeing suspects and directed that all available operational and intelligence assets be deployed to ensure their immediate arrest and prosecution,” he said.

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The police spokesperson further noted that the ongoing operation was being conducted in collaboration with the military, local vigilante groups and hunters, with sustained bush-combing operations underway to apprehend the suspects.

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“The command urges members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information that will aid security agencies in combating crime across the state,” he added.

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