By Stephen Ojo, Minna
The Niger State Police Command has recorded another major breakthrough in its ongoing fight against kidnapping and banditry. In a fierce gun battle, security operatives neutralised three kidnappers and recovered dangerous weapons, including two AK-74 rifles and 49 rounds of live ammunition.
The operation, carried out on September 12, 2025, around 6:30 a.m., was led by the Police Command’s Special Task Team (STT), Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad (FID STS), and local vigilantes. The joint team stormed Kokolo forest via Kawo-Auna village in Magama Local Government Area, where they encountered the heavily armed criminals.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Wasiu Abiodun, said the hoodlums engaged the team in a gun duel. “Three of the suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while others fled with gunshot wounds. A kidnapped victim was also rescued,” he stated.
Abiodun disclosed that during a sweep of the criminals’ hideout, officers recovered two AK-74 rifles and 49 live rounds of ammunition. He added that investigations are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects.
He urged communities around the forest to remain vigilant and promptly report any person found with gunshot wounds to security agencies.
Related Arrests in Minna
In another development, police operatives arrested two suspects linked to armed robbery and possession of dangerous weapons in Minna on September 25, 2025.
According to SP Abiodun, the suspects, including 20-year-old Hassan Ibrahim of Sabon-Titi, Tunga, were arrested in their hideouts. Items recovered include two locally fabricated guns, a police T-shirt, two damaged walkie-talkies, and illicit substances.
The Niger State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying the fight against criminality and urged the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible information. 👉 Follow www.krestnews.com for more verified updates.