Security Agencies Disrupt Kidnapping Ring in Plateau State
Security agencies operating in the Qua’an Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State have successfully dismantled a kidnapping ring, resulting in the arrest of two suspects, the recovery of ₦8 million in ransom money, and the liberation of a woman who had been held in a forest hideout.
The operation was carried out through coordinated intelligence efforts by joint security teams working within the area. The suspects, identified as Waltu Watter and Sale Mamma, are accused of being involved in a deadly attack that led to the death of Alhaji Saidu Mamma. During this incident, his daughter was abducted, and the attackers reportedly demanded and received ₦8 million from the family.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the media aide to the Qua’an Pan Local Government Chairman, Danaan Cletus Sylvanus, security operatives were able to track down and arrest the suspects while also retrieving the full ransom sum.
Presenting the arrested suspects and the recovered cash, the council chairman, Hon. Dr Christopher Audu Manship, commended the operation and reiterated the local government’s strict stance against crime. He emphasized that criminal groups would not be allowed to operate in the area or use it as a safe haven after committing offenses elsewhere.
“We will not allow criminals to operate in Qua’an Pan or use this local government as a hiding place after committing crimes in neighboring councils or states,” he stated.
He also directed that the recovered ₦8 million be returned to the bereaved family of Alhaji Saidu Mamma.
Rescue Operation Saves Abducted Woman
In a separate operation, security personnel rescued Mrs. Gambo Bello, who had been abducted in Padama, Lafia East Local Government Area of Nasarawa State and taken to the Pandam Game Reserve in Qua’an Pan.
Authorities revealed that intelligence about unusual movements within the reserve prompted a search-and-rescue mission. Mrs. Bello recounted her experience, stating that she spent more than a week in captivity before troops stormed the hideout.
“The security men came and exchanged gunfire with them. After some time, the kidnappers ran away and the operatives rescued me from the bush,” she said.
Multiple Successful Operations
Chairman Manship disclosed that this marked the third successful operation in which kidnappers had been arrested and ransom recovered in the area, alongside other arrests. He credited the outcomes to improved collaboration among security agencies and what he described as divine assistance, while also commending Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for supporting security efforts.
He further pledged to tighten surveillance across border communities linking Qua’an Pan with neighboring councils and states to curb criminal infiltration.
Key Achievements of the Operation
- Arrest of two suspects: Waltu Watter and Sale Mamma were apprehended.
- Recovery of ₦8 million: The full ransom amount was retrieved.
- Liberation of a kidnapped woman: A woman was freed from a forest hideout.
- Rescue of another victim: Mrs. Gambo Bello was rescued from the Pandam Game Reserve.
- Improved security collaboration: Joint efforts among agencies led to successful operations.
Future Plans
Chairman Manship emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong security presence in the region. He highlighted the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between security agencies and local communities to prevent future incidents.
His message was clear: no criminal activity would go unchecked in Qua’an Pan. The local government remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of its residents.
