Niger State Police Command Successfully Rescues Four Kidnapping Victims in Sarkin-Pawa, Munya LGA
In a significant breakthrough in the ongoing battle against kidnapping in Niger State, the Niger Police Command has confirmed the safe rescue of four victims who were abducted from Sarkin-Pawa, Munya Local Government Area. This rescue marks a critical victory for security forces and offers renewed hope for communities grappling with the menace of kidnapping in the region.
Background of the Kidnapping Incident
The incident dates back to the night of February 20, 2025, when suspected kidnappers launched a violent attack on the villages of Hayin-Dogo and Dangunu in Sarkin-Pawa, Munya LGA. According to the Niger State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, the attack occurred around 10 pm, catching the residents off guard.
In the attack, five individuals were abducted, including a man named Usman Daina. However, Usman Daina was released after two days in captivity, leaving four others still held by the kidnappers. The identities of the remaining victims were later confirmed as Deborah Daina, Gambo Amos, Cyprus Titus, and Satti Iko.
“It could also be recalled that on 20th February, 2025 around 10 pm, suspected kidnappers attacked Hayin-Dogo and Dangunu villages of Sarkin-Pawa, Munya LGA where one Usman Daina, and four others were abducted, but the said Usman was released after two days,” SP Wasiu Abiodun stated in the official release.
Months of Security Operations and Community Tension
Following the initial attack and abduction, the Niger State Police Command, alongside other security agencies, intensified efforts to locate and rescue the victims. For over three months, the joint security team has been conducting clearance operations in the affected areas, relentlessly pursuing the kidnappers. This period was marked by high tension within the local communities, as families and residents awaited news of the abductees’ fate.
The kidnappers, who often exploit the difficult terrain and limited infrastructure in rural Niger State, had kept the victims in captivity under precarious conditions. The security forces, aware of the dangers posed to the hostages, mounted coordinated operations designed to pressure the kidnappers and recover the victims without endangering their lives.
The Successful Rescue on May 22, 2025
After sustained pressure and tactical operations, the breakthrough came on May 22, 2025. At approximately 12 pm, the victims managed to escape from their abductors, aided by the continuous security presence and interventions in the area.
“Since then, joint security team has been mounting pressure through different clearance and rescue operations to rescue the victims,” SP Wasiu Abiodun explained.
The escape of Deborah Daina, Gambo Amos, Cyprus Titus, and Satti Iko was a direct result of the effective and coordinated actions of the joint security forces, which included police officers and other state security operatives. The victims were promptly taken to a hospital for thorough medical evaluation and treatment to address any health concerns resulting from their prolonged captivity.
Following their recovery, the four were safely reunited with their families, bringing an end to months of anxiety and uncertainty for their loved ones.
Commendation from Niger State Police Commissioner
The Commissioner of Police for Niger State, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, MNIPS, praised the collaborative efforts of all security agencies involved in the rescue operation. He underscored that this success exemplifies the unwavering commitment of the Niger State Police Command to safeguarding the lives and property of all residents within the state.
“The Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, MNIPS commended the joint security efforts in achieving this feat,” the statement said.
CP Elleman further reassured the public of the continuous priority placed on security, emphasizing that the safety of lives and properties remains the top concern of the Police and other security agencies operating in Niger State.
“He reassured members of the public that safety of lives and property shall continue to be the priority of the Police and other security agencies in the State.”
The Broader Context of Kidnapping in Niger State
Kidnapping has become a growing concern across Nigeria, and Niger State has unfortunately experienced a surge in such violent crimes over recent years. Rural communities, such as those in Munya Local Government Area, are particularly vulnerable due to their remote locations and limited security infrastructure.
The government and security agencies have been working tirelessly to curb this trend through enhanced intelligence gathering, community policing initiatives, and joint operations involving the military, police, and local vigilante groups.
The successful rescue of these four victims is an encouraging sign that these strategies are bearing fruit, but it also highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and sustained security presence in vulnerable areas.
How Residents Can Support Security Efforts
Residents of Sarkin-Pawa and other affected areas are encouraged to cooperate fully with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, suspicious persons, or unusual movements within their communities. Active community participation remains one of the most effective tools in preventing kidnappings and other violent crimes.
Local leaders, traditional rulers, and community-based organizations are also called upon to support security efforts by facilitating communication between residents and law enforcement, and by promoting peace and social cohesion.
Conclusion
The Niger State Police Command’s recent success in rescuing four kidnapped victims in Sarkin-Pawa, Munya LGA is a testament to the dedication and resilience of Nigeria’s security forces. The operation underscores the critical importance of coordinated efforts, intelligence-driven operations, and community engagement in the fight against kidnapping.
As the rescued victims recover and reunite with their families, the Niger State Police Command reiterates its commitment to protecting all citizens and ensuring that Niger State remains safe and secure for everyone.
This positive development offers hope to all Nigerians affected by the scourge of kidnapping and serves as a reminder that through unity, determination, and strategic security operations, the tide against criminal elements can be turned.
