In a collaborative effort, the Nigerian Army and Department of State Services (DSS) operatives have arrested a suspected kidnapper, Mukaila Iliyasu, in Nasarawa State. The arrest was made at Akwaba in Eggon Local Government Area (LGA) during a joint security operation. According to Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke, the suspect was apprehended while attempting to collect a ₦200,000 ransom from a female resident.
The joint operation was launched following intelligence reports that Iliyasu had allegedly threatened to abduct a woman unless she paid the sum of ₦200,000. On October 29, DSS operatives alerted the military to the alleged threat, leading to the deployment of a coordinated operation to track down the suspect and prevent the planned abduction. A soldier went undercover, posing as the individual assigned to deliver the ransom, to facilitate Iliyasu's arrest.
The suspect was apprehended while collecting the money, with security operatives recovering ₦200,000 believed to be the ransom demanded from the intended victim. The military described the operation as a successful intelligence-led intervention that prevented a possible kidnapping. This underscores the importance of cooperation among security agencies in tackling criminal activities in the region.
Following his arrest, Iliyasu was handed over to the DSS for further investigation and possible prosecution. The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke and General Officer Commanding 5 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Kolo Gara, praised the troops and DSS operatives for their professionalism, courage, and effective coordination.
Major General Gara urged the security personnel to sustain their collaboration and strengthen intelligence sharing to tackle kidnapping and other security threats across their areas of responsibility. He emphasized the need for continued inter-agency cooperation to protect lives, safeguard communities, and maintain peace in the region.
The arrest and foiled kidnapping attempt highlight the efforts of the Nigerian security agencies to combat crime and ensure public safety. The incident also demonstrates the value of intelligence-led operations and inter-agency collaboration in achieving successful outcomes.
The Nigerian Army and DSS will likely continue to work together to address security challenges in Nasarawa State and beyond. Their collaborative efforts aim to create a safer environment for residents and deter potential kidnappers and other criminals.
Key points
- The Nigerian Army and DSS arrested a suspected kidnapper, Mukaila Iliyasu, while collecting a ₦200,000 ransom in Nasarawa State.
- The joint operation was launched following intelligence reports of an alleged threat to abduct a woman.
- The arrest prevented a possible kidnapping and highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation in tackling security threats.
