Society
Grandson, Gang Kidnap Elderly Relative Twice For Ransom
were arrested following investigations into the repeated abduction
The Nigeria Police Force, NPF, has arrested two suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate accused of masterminding the abduction of an elderly man in Kaduna State, with investigators alleging that the victim’s own grandson played a central role in the crime.
The suspects, identified as Yusuf Rabo and Musa Adamu, were arrested following investigations into the repeated abduction of Alhaji Rabo Jelani, whom the gang allegedly targeted over claims that he possessed substantial wealth and livestock.
Police authorities disclosed that investigations revealed Yusuf Rabo allegedly conspired with Musa Adamu and one Ali Haruna, the victim’s grandson who is currently on the run, to execute the kidnappings and negotiate ransom payments.
According to the Force Headquarters, the victim was abducted on two separate occasions and taken to forest hideouts where ransom negotiations were coordinated.
The police said the first operation yielded N2 million, while the second abduction allegedly fetched the gang N4.5 million.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, investigators further uncovered that the syndicate operated with multiple AK-47 rifles procured for criminal activities within Kaduna State and neighbouring communities.
The statement added that Ali Haruna allegedly supplied one of the rifles belonging to his father, while other weapons used by the gang were sourced by different members of the syndicate.
Police operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle with an empty magazine during the operation.
The Force also linked the suspects to other violent crimes in the area, including the kidnapping of a trader identified simply as Mr. Iyke and an armed robbery attack along the Kagoma axis where commuters were reportedly dispossessed of cash and valuables.
The police said efforts were ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect, Ali Haruna, and recover more weapons and other exhibits connected to the crimes.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in dismantling kidnapping and armed robbery networks across the country and assures members of the public of sustained intelligence-led operations against violent criminal groups,” the statement said.
