The Adamawa State Police Command has recorded a significant breakthrough in its fight against violent crime with the arrest of a suspected kidnapper believed to be responsible for a wave of abductions in parts of the state.
The suspect, identified as Abdulhamid Halilu, is a 33-year-old resident of Guzubeta in Barikin Sajo, located within Song Local Government Area.
According to police sources, Halilu had long been on the Command’s wanted list due to intelligence linking him to kidnapping activities that had spread fear across Song LGA and neighboring communities.
His arrest was carried out at the busy Girei Market following sustained surveillance and credible intelligence gathered by operatives of the Command.
During the operation, officers recovered One Hundred Thousand Naira (₦100,000) in cash from the suspect.
In addition, assorted food items estimated at about Two Hundred and Thirty Thousand Naira (₦230,000) were also seized.
These included roasted chickens, energy drinks, soft drinks, and packaged snacks.
Investigators believe the items were meant to serve as logistics to sustain criminal operations in remote locations.
The Command’s spokesperson, Superintendent of Police Suleiman Nguroje, confirmed the arrest in a statement made available to journalists.
He disclosed that the suspect is currently being held in custody and has begun cooperating with investigators by providing useful information that could help dismantle the wider criminal network behind the kidnapping operations.
SP Nguroje further explained that the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Command has been directed to take over the case.
The unit has been mandated to conduct a discreet and thorough investigation with the aim of identifying, tracking, and apprehending other members of the syndicate believed to be operating within and beyond Song Local Government Area.
Security analysts say the arrest represents a major boost to ongoing efforts by the Adamawa Police to curb kidnapping, banditry, and other forms of violent crime across the state.
In recent months, residents of rural communities have repeatedly raised concerns about the activities of criminal groups who exploit difficult terrain and weak communication networks to carry out attacks.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Adamawa State, CP Dankombo Morris, reassured residents that the Command remains fully committed to safeguarding lives and property.
He described the arrest as evidence of the Police’s resolve to rid the state of criminal elements, regardless of how long it takes or where suspects attempt to hide.
CP Morris emphasized that sustained success in crime fighting depends largely on cooperation between security agencies and members of the public.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information that can assist the Police in preventing crimes before they occur.
“The Command will not relent in its determination to ensure that Adamawa State is safe for all residents,” the Police Commissioner stated.
“We encourage citizens to report suspicious movements and activities to the nearest police station or through our designated emergency communication channels.”
To this end, the Command reiterated its emergency contact numbers for public use.
Residents were advised to contact the Emergency Control Room via 0808 967 1313, or the Complaint Response Unit on 0814 421 4876, whenever they observe unusual or threatening activities in their communities.
Community leaders in Song Local Government Area have welcomed the arrest, describing it as a relief to residents who have lived in fear due to repeated criminal incidents.
Some residents expressed optimism that the arrest of the suspected kidnapper would discourage other criminal elements and restore confidence in security operations across the area.
As investigations continue, the Adamawa State Police Command has assured the public that updates will be provided when necessary.
Authorities also warned individuals involved in criminal activities that no part of the state will serve as a safe haven, as intelligence-led policing and inter-agency cooperation are being strengthened.
The arrest, observers note, sends a clear message that law enforcement agencies are intensifying efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks and bring perpetrators to justice, reinforcing public trust in the security architecture of the state.
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