In a daring rescue operation, a joint team of security personnel from the Federal Capital Territory Police Command and the military has successfully rescued a kidnapped naval officer, Lt. Cynthia Akor, attached to the Defence Headquarters, along with two civilians abducted from Mpape, Abuja. The operation, which took place in the early hours of March 23, 2025, resulted in the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of ₦3.2 million, suspected to be ransom money from previous kidnapping operations.
The victims were taken on March 21, 2025, when heavily armed assailants attacked the Maman Vatsa Estate gate, blocked Mpape Road, and opened fire on moving vehicles before abducting them. The kidnappers demanded ₦500 million for the naval officer and ₦200 million each for the two civilians. The incident sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the growing concern of kidnapping and armed robbery in the Federal Capital Territory.
Acting on intelligence, security operatives stormed a Fulani resettlement in Anguwan Mu’azu and Yelwa Hills, Nasarawa State, between 2 am and 5:30 am on March 23, 2025. The operation was led by the Police Anti-Kidnapping Unit, with support from the military, the Department of State Services, and local hunters. The suspects were arrested, and the victims were rescued unharmed.
The rescued individuals are receiving medical care at the Nigerian Army Clinic and are in stable condition. Efforts are ongoing to track and apprehend the remaining suspects currently at large. Security deployments have been reinforced in Mpape and surrounding areas to prevent future occurrences.
The success of the rescue operation highlights the importance of joint security operations in combating kidnapping and armed robbery. The collaboration between the police, military, and other security agencies demonstrates the effectiveness of a unified approach in tackling security challenges.
The incident also underscores the need for community vigilance and cooperation with security agencies. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities or individuals to the authorities, helping to prevent future kidnapping and armed robbery incidents.
The rescue of the kidnapped naval officer and civilians is a welcome development, demonstrating the commitment of security agencies to protecting lives and property. As the investigation continues, it is essential that the public remains vigilant and cooperative, working together to prevent future security breaches.