By Patrick Idowu
Two suspected kidnappers of a Nigerian Navy officer, Lieutenant Cynthia Akor, have been captured in a well-coordinated raid by operatives of the Naval Unit, Abuja.
The suspects, Buhari Adamu and Samaila Usman, were arrested along with an accomplice, Mu’Awiya Belo, at the Masaka hills in Nasarawa State, days after Lt. Akor’s dramatic rescue.
Lt. Akor, her sister and another civilian were abducted on March 21 by armed criminals who blocked Mpape Road near Maman Vatsa Estate, opening fire on commuters.
A swift joint security operation freed the victims on March 23 in Karu, Abuja, after technical and human intelligence was deployed.
Security agents also recovered cash and exhibits during the operation, while relatives of the gang were briefly held to draw out the criminals.
Following intense investigations, the Naval Unit tracked and arrested the suspects, who have confessed to involvement in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other crimes. They were handed over to the FCT Police Command on Wednesday.
Items recovered from the suspects include four mobile phones, multiple ATM cards, a motorcycle, a wristwatch, and other belongings.
Commodore Oladipo, speaking during the handover, said the Navy remains committed to rooting out criminal elements from the FCT and supporting the Chief of Naval Staff’s vision of a proactive force.
He also praised FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for bolstering the capital’s security architecture.
“The Base will continue working with other agencies to keep the FCT safe and secure,” Oladipo assured.
