Navy, Police Nab Suspected Kidnappers of Lt. Cynthia Akor in Abuja Operation

Navy, Police Nab Suspected Kidnappers of Lt. Cynthia Akor in Abuja Operation

Two suspected kidnappers involved in the abduction of Nigerian Navy Lieutenant Cynthia Akor have been captured by operatives of the Naval Unit in Abuja.

Identified as Buhari Adamu and Samaila Usman, the suspects were arrested along with an accomplice, Mu’Awiya Belo, near the hills in Masaka, Nasarawa State.

Lt. Akor was kidnapped on March 21, alongside her sister and another civilian, when armed assailants attacked Maman Vatsa Estate Gate, blocked Mpape Road and opened fire on passing vehicles.

Two days later, a coordinated joint security operation successfully rescued the victims in Karu, Abuja. During the operation, cash and other exhibits were recovered, while some relatives of the suspects were detained to lure the kidnappers out of hiding.

As investigations continued, operatives of the Naval Unit in Abuja arrested two suspects, who have now been handed over to the FCT Police Command for further investigation and prosecution.

According to sources, items recovered from the suspects include four mobile phones, four ATM cards from different banks, a motorcycle, a wristwatch and other personal belongings.

Commander of the Naval Unit, Commodore Oluseyi Oladipo, confirmed the arrests, noting the success was due to strong inter-agency collaboration among security services in the FCT.

“It is to be noted that in spite of the commendable efforts of the Armed Forces, Police and other security agencies, the FCT is still confronted by the threats of kidnapping, ‘one chance’ abductions and car theft among others.”

He added that the rescue mission, launched upon receiving intelligence on the kidnapping, was supported by both human and technical surveillance, which enabled the safe release of the victims on March 23.

He said: “Thereafter, follow up operations led to the arrest of two suspects and an accomplice. The suspects have since confessed to their involvement in kidnapping, cattle rustling and other vices.

“Accordingly, the suspects and the related exhibits have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force FCT Command for further investigation and prosecution.

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“Naval Unit Abuja remains committed to actualising the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, which is a highly motivated Naval Force capable of shaping security outcomes in Nigeria’s maritime domain, including land-based engagements.

“We are also deeply appreciative of the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, for his leading in enhancing security for the development of the FCT.

“The Base will continue to operate in partnership with other security agencies to keep the FCT safe and secure.”