In what authorities hailed as a significant advancement in efforts to reduce criminal activity in the state, the Nasarawa State Police Command has stopped a planned kidnapping in Karu Local Government Area and detained three people purportedly connected to the operation.
The operation was prompted by a complaint filed with the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) when unidentified individuals allegedly threatened to kidnap an agribusinesswoman and her children until a N5 million ransom was paid, according to SP Ramhan Nansel, the Command's spokeswoman.
According to police, the Command took swift action once the threat was detected on April 31, 2026.
In response, CP Shetima Jauro Mohamed, the Nasarawa State Commissioner of Police, issued an order for what the Command called a "comprehensive investigation" to stop the kidnapping and prosecute the perpetrators.
Following the order, agents conducted an intelligence-driven operation that resulted in the apprehension of two initial suspects, Prince Eze, 19, and Marwan Salihu, 18, both of whom lived in Agada Village in the Karu Local Government Area.
A third suspect, Hassan Mathew Yerima of Keffi, was apprehended as a result of additional inquiry, according to the police, who believe he organized the group's intended ransom collection.
The accused are assisting investigators while in police custody. According to the police statement, "efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the criminal network and ensure they are brought to justice."
According to the Command, the arrests are a component of its larger plan to break up criminal organizations that operate in the state and stop violent crimes before they happen.
Residents were reassured by the CP of the Command's dedication to safeguarding people and property, and they were urged to stay vigilant and notify the closest police formation of any suspicious activity or threats.
The statement went on, "The Commissioner of Police reassures residents of the Command's unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the State."