Nasarawa State Police Command Arrests Notorious Kidnapper in Major Breakthrough Against Crime
The Nasarawa State Police Command has successfully arrested a notorious kidnapper who had long been on the Command’s wanted list due to involvement in multiple criminal activities. This arrest marks a significant victory in the ongoing fight against crime, particularly kidnapping and cattle rustling, which have troubled the region for years.
Intensive Manhunt Leads to Arrest of Abashed Gizo
In a detailed press statement made available to journalists in Lafia on Sunday, May 18, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Ranham Nansel, revealed that the arrest was the result of an extensive and intelligence-led manhunt conducted by the Command. According to SP Nansel, the suspect, identified as Abashed Gizo, was apprehended at the well-known Shingle Market and Cattle Market in Lafia, the state capital.
SP Ranham Nansel emphasized the meticulous nature of the operation, saying:
“The arrest of Abashed Gizo at the popular Shingle market, Cattle market in Lafia, was through an intelligence-led operation by the operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).”
This statement highlights the crucial role intelligence gathering and investigative precision played in successfully capturing the suspect, who had been evading law enforcement for an extended period.
Multiple Criminal Offenses Including Kidnapping and Cattle Rustling
The suspect, Abashed Gizo, had been a notorious figure on the Command’s wanted list for a considerable time due to his involvement in numerous crimes. His criminal portfolio reportedly includes kidnapping—an especially disturbing offense that has created fear and insecurity in Nasarawa communities—as well as cattle rustling, a crime that affects farmers and the agricultural economy.
SP Ranham Nansel further elaborated:
“The suspect, who has been on the Command’s wanted list for an extended period due to multiple offences, including kidnapping and cattle rustling.”
This highlights the dual nature of the suspect’s criminal activities, reflecting broader security challenges that the state police are working hard to contain.
Confession and Recovery of Weapons
Following his arrest, Abashed Gizo was subjected to thorough interrogation by police officers. During the interrogation process, he reportedly confessed to the various crimes attributed to him, providing critical information that led to further police action. Acting on his confession, the officers were able to locate his hideout in Ruwan Baka village, located in Doma Local Government Area (LGA).
At the hideout, the police recovered a highly dangerous weapon: an AK-49 rifle, bearing the serial number 453144, along with a magazine. This discovery is particularly significant because it underscores the level of armament that such criminals possess and use to intimidate communities and evade arrest.
SP Ranham Nansel provided this insight:
“Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crimes and led officers to his hideout at Ruwan Baka village, Doma LGA, where one AK-49 rifle (Breach №453144) and a magazine were recovered in his possession.”
The recovery of the weapon not only removes a dangerous asset from the hands of criminals but also provides evidence that strengthens the case against the suspect.
Link to Previous Arrests and Ammunition Trafficking
The Nasarawa State Police Command also pointed out that the arrest of Abashed Gizo is a major breakthrough connected to an earlier operation involving the arrest of Fatima Salisu. Fatima was apprehended while transporting a cache of ammunition from Doma to Katsina State, ammunition intended for criminal groups.
This linkage suggests a broader network of criminal activity that the police are working to dismantle, involving the movement of illegal arms and ammunition across state lines to fuel violent crimes such as kidnapping and rustling.
The Command’s statement noted:
“The Command noted that the arrest is a breakthrough in connection with the arrest of Fatima Salisu, who was intercepted while transporting a cache of ammunition from Doma to Katsina State, intended for criminal elements.”
This connection highlights the complexity and scale of criminal enterprises in Nasarawa and neighboring regions, underlining the importance of ongoing intelligence and operational cooperation.
Commitment to Security by Nasarawa State Police Command
In response to the recent arrest and ongoing efforts to combat crime, the Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of all residents across Nasarawa State.
CP Mohammed’s commitment is clear and firm:
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, reaffirms the Command’s unwavering commitment to rooting out crime and ensuring the safety and security of all residents across Nasarawa State.”
This strong statement reflects the Command’s resolve to maintain peace and stability through sustained police actions, community engagement, and strategic interventions.
Call for Public Vigilance and Cooperation
Recognizing that effective crime control requires the partnership of both law enforcement and the public, the Nasarawa State Police Command has urged residents to stay vigilant and proactive in reporting suspicious activities.
The police appeal to the public serves as a critical reminder that community involvement is essential in making neighborhoods safer:
“The Police urge the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities as they work tirelessly to make our communities safer.”
Such calls for vigilance encourage citizens to play an active role in crime prevention, fostering a collaborative environment where security efforts are strengthened by timely intelligence from community members.
Why This Arrest Matters for Nasarawa State and Nigeria
Kidnapping, cattle rustling, and illegal arms trafficking have been major security challenges in Nasarawa State, impacting the lives of ordinary citizens and disrupting social and economic activities. The arrest of Abashed Gizo is not just a singular event but a crucial step towards dismantling criminal networks that threaten peace.
The Nasarawa Police Command’s approach — characterized by intelligence-led operations, community collaboration, and inter-agency coordination — is a blueprint for effective policing in the region. It sends a strong message to criminals that law enforcement agencies are vigilant, capable, and committed to restoring law and order.
Impact on Local Communities
Communities affected by kidnapping and cattle rustling have suffered trauma, economic losses, and fear for their safety. By apprehending notorious criminals like Abashed Gizo, the police help to restore confidence among residents and encourage economic activities such as farming, trading, and livestock rearing to flourish without the constant threat of violence.
Boost to State Security Architecture
This breakthrough supports the broader security architecture of Nasarawa State and Nigeria as a whole, aligning with national efforts to reduce crime rates and improve citizen safety.
Final Thoughts
The recent arrest by the Nasarawa State Police Command serves as a beacon of hope for a safer, more secure Nasarawa. It highlights the importance of intelligence-led policing and community cooperation in tackling complex crimes like kidnapping and cattle rustling.
As the Police Commissioner, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, rightly pointed out, the fight against crime requires persistent dedication, and the Command remains unwavering in its mission:
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, reaffirms the Command’s unwavering commitment to rooting out crime and ensuring the safety and security of all residents across Nasarawa State.”
For residents and businesses in Nasarawa, this news should encourage optimism and vigilance, reinforcing the message that the police are working hard to ensure that their communities become safer places to live, work, and thrive.
Stay informed, stay alert, and report any suspicious activities to the police. Together, we can build a more secure Nasarawa.
