Operatives of Operation Puff Adder currently on a nation-wide offensive against kidnappers and other dangerous criminals, yet again, recorded victory with the rescue of two kidnapped victims and subsequent arrest of three male suspects and the recovery of two (2) Ak47 rifles and Two hundred and fifty eight (258) rounds of live ammunition of 7.62mm caliber.
The two victims, Ali Abu Sale, male, 34 years and Bala Bawa, male, 37 years, who were earlier kidnapped from their residence at Maijaki village via Lapai LGA of Niger State on 1st May 2019, and held at two separate kidnappers' camp, were rescued following a joint tactical rescue mission involving Police men from the Technical Intelligence Units, Special Tactical Squad and other undercover operatives attached to Operation Puff Adder. While Ali Abu Sale was rescued at Mai Lamba forest near Lapai, Niger State, Bala Bawa was rescued at Gada Biu on the outskirts of Abuja. Prior to the successful rescue operation, the kidnappers were demanding for a whopping ransom of Eight Million Naira (8, 000,000 naira) for the two victims.
The three suspects: Mohammed Bello, aka Dan Hajia 42 years, Suleiman Musa, aka Dan Auta 38 years and Abubakar Bello, aka Abu Kango 28 years, all males, are currently in police custody helping in the ongoing investigation. One of the suspects, following a serious gun duel with the rescuing Police Operatives was fatally injured and subsequently died from the gun shot injuries. Investigation into the case is continuing.
Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police, IGP M.A Adamu NPM, mni has commended the efforts of the Police Operatives on the successful rescue of the victims. He also thanked members of the public for continually assisting the police especially through the provision of credible information in the fight against kidnapping and violent crimes. He promised that the police will continue the intensive onslaught against kidnappers and other heinous criminals until the battle is won.
DCP FRANK MBA FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER FORCE HEADQUARTERS, ABUJA