In a significant breakthrough, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has apprehended Ibrahim Abdullahi, the suspected mastermind behind the 2022 Abuja-Kaduna train attack. Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police public relations officer (PPRO), announced the arrest in Kaduna on Thursday, providing updates on the force’s operations.
According to Adejobi, Abdullahi, also known as Mande, was captured by the anti-kidnapping unit of the Kaduna State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) on January 12. Abdullahi confessed to being a leader of a kidnapping syndicate that has been terrorizing the Kaduna-Abuja highway.
“The suspect confessed to being the leader of a kidnap syndicate terrorising the Kaduna-Abuja highway, ranked among other criminals like Dogo Gide and Bello Turji,” Adejobi stated.
Adejobi revealed that Abdullahi was not only involved in the train attack but also played a role in other high-profile kidnappings, including the abduction at Green Field University in Kaduna state.
“On January 12, 2024, police operatives attached to the anti-kidnapping unit of the Kaduna State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), based on credible information, swooped in and arrested one Ibrahim Abdullahi, also known as Mande, at the Abuja-Kaduna road flyover by Rido junction,” Adejobi added.
The police spokesperson highlighted the effectiveness of the force’s strategy, which led to Abdullahi’s arrest. He also mentioned the deployment of a helicopter to serve as an escort for trains along the Abuja-Kaduna route, providing aerial support for ground troops and other security agencies.
“This proactive measure aims to prevent attacks and act as a first responder in the event of any untoward incidents,” Adejobi emphasized.
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Furthermore, the police disclosed several other arrests and recoveries made during their operations. A total of 81 suspects were arrested for armed robbery, 40 for kidnapping, 73 for murder or homicide, 36 for rape, 22 for cult-related crimes, and 28 for engaging in various other criminal activities.
“In addition to the arrests, 16 firearms of various calibers with 226 ammunition of diverse types were recovered. Twenty-eight stolen vehicles, over 200 harmful weapons, and 600 bags of fertilizers have been retrieved,” Adejobi elaborated.
The police spokesperson also highlighted the successful rescue of 158 kidnapped victims, underscoring the force’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Nigerians across the country.