By Sabiu Abdullahi
In a daring pre-dawn operation, the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the Nigerian Police Force descended upon a kidnappers’ stronghold in the Mpape area of Abuja, resulting in the deaths of numerous notorious criminals, including a kingpin.
According to a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the raid, executed around 2:40 a.m. on Feb. 9, followed meticulous intelligence gathering.
During the operation, the police engaged armed bandits in a fierce gun battle lasting approximately 30 minutes.
The exchange left many of the criminals fatally injured, while one police operative sustained a bullet wound.
This successful assault marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to curb kidnapping activities that have plagued Abuja and surrounding areas.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the recently killed kingpin, identified as the mastermind behind numerous kidnappings for ransom, orchestrated operations spanning various regions, including Mpape and Bwari in the FCT, Kagarko in Kaduna, and Masaka and Nukun Village in Nasarawa State.
His modus operandi involved identifying affluent targets and mobilising armed gangs to execute abductions for ransom.
The raid, conducted through a surprise assault on the hideout nestled on the outskirts of Mpape Hills, resulted in the elimination of the notorious criminals.
Recovered from the scene were mobile phones, multiple SIM cards, charms, and narcotics, vital pieces of evidence aiding ongoing investigations.
Efforts are underway to recover additional arms, ammunition, and equipment utilised by the criminal syndicate for their nefarious activities.
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