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The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) says it has arrested two suspects allegedly involved in the kidnapping of an elderly man in Kaduna State, in a case investigators described as a conspiracy involving the victim’s own family member.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the suspects — identified as Yusuf Rabo and Musa Adamu — were arrested following investigations into the abduction of Alhaji Rabo Jelani.
Police authorities alleged that Yusuf Rabo collaborated with Musa Adamu and the victim’s grandson, Ali Haruna, who is currently on the run, to orchestrate the kidnapping for ransom after claiming the victim possessed substantial wealth and livestock.
Investigators further disclosed that the criminal syndicate allegedly operated with multiple AK-47 rifles used during kidnapping and armed robbery operations across Kaduna communities and nearby areas.
The police said one AK-47 rifle with an empty magazine was recovered during the operation, while preliminary findings indicated that Ali Haruna allegedly supplied one of the firearms belonging to his father.
According to the NPF, the victim was abducted on more than one occasion and taken into forest hideouts where ransom negotiations were allegedly coordinated by Yusuf Rabo himself.
Police said the first abduction reportedly yielded a ransom payment of ₦2 million, while a second operation generated ₦4.5 million.
Authorities also linked the syndicate to other violent crimes in the area, including the kidnapping of a trader identified as Mr. Iyke and an armed robbery attack along the Kagoma axis, where commuters were reportedly dispossessed of cash and valuables.
The Nigeria Police Force said efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect, Ali Haruna, and recover additional weapons connected to the gang’s operations.
In the statement dated May 19, 2026, the Force reiterated its commitment to dismantling kidnapping and armed robbery networks through intelligence-led operations across the country.
Legal Angle
The case highlights growing concerns over the proliferation of illegal firearms and organized kidnapping operations in parts of Nigeria. Under Nigerian law, kidnapping, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of firearms carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment in some jurisdictions.
Security analysts have repeatedly warned that the increasing sophistication of kidnapping syndicates poses a major threat to rural communities and interstate travelers.
Conclusion
The latest arrests underscore the continuing security challenges facing many Nigerian communities, even as law enforcement agencies intensify crackdowns on violent criminal groups. Residents have continued to call for stronger intelligence gathering, community policing, and stricter control of illegal weapons to curb the rising wave of kidnappings nationwide.
By Gabriel Sunday | Step Rights Magazine