Three arrested over abduction of naval officer in Abuja

Some naval officers on patrol. Photo: wordpress.com

Three suspects linked to the abduction of Nigerian Navy Lieutenant Cynthia Akor have been arrested by operatives of the Naval Unit in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

Two of the arrested individuals were directly involved in the abduction, while the third was identified as an accomplice.

It was gathered on Thursday that the arrests were made in a community bordering Masaka in neighbouring Nasarawa State.

Akor was kidnapped on March 21 along with two civilians after armed assailants attacked the gate of Maman Vatsa Estate, blocked Mpape Road, and opened fire on moving vehicles.

The kidnappers later contacted their families, demanding N500m for the naval officer and N200m each for the civilians.

However, a joint security operation involving the Federal Capital Territory Police Command and the military rescued the victims.

While handing over the suspects to the police, the Commander of the Naval Unit, Commodore Oluseyi Oladipo, said the arrests were made possible through effective collaboration among security agencies in the FCT.

“The suspects have since confessed to their involvement in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other criminal activities.

“Accordingly, the suspects and the related exhibits have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force (FCT Command) for further investigation and prosecution, “ he said.

Despite the successful operation, Oladipo acknowledged that Abuja continues to face security challenges including kidnapping, “one chance” abductions, and vehicle theft.

He reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to supporting the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, by contributing to national security on land and at sea.

“We are also deeply appreciative of the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, for his leadership in enhancing security for the development of the FCT.

“The base will continue to operate in partnership with other security agencies to keep the FCT safe and secure, “ Oladipo said.