A suspected kidnapper’s attempt to mask his identity ended in his arrest after he visited one of his victims under the guise of offering condolences in Sabon-Gari Mangu Matachibu village, Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger State.
The Niger State Police Command spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the arrest in a statement released on Sunday. The suspect, identified as Nasiru Isyaka, was apprehended following an investigation into a kidnapping incident that occurred in the village on December 29, 2024.
According to the police, armed men stormed the village, killing one person and abducting two others. However, the victims were rescued through a collaborative security effort.
“On January 17, 2025, at about 10 a.m., police operatives attached to ‘A’ Division Kontagora arrested one Nasiru Isyaka of Sabon-Gari Mangu Matachibu village,” the statement read. “The suspect was identified as a member of the gang during a sympathy visit to the home of one of the rescued victims.”
During the arrest, a locally made short gun was recovered from the suspect, and he reportedly confessed to his involvement in the crime. The suspect has since been transferred to the police headquarters in Minna for further investigation and prosecution.
Efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the gang involved in the attack.
The incident underscores the vigilance of the community and security agencies in tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities in Niger State.