The Nigerian Navy has arrested and handed over three suspected kidnappers to the FCT Police Command following their alleged involvement in the abduction of a naval officer and several others in Abuja.

The suspects, identified as Buhari Adamu and Samaila Usman, were arrested alongside an accomplice, Mu’Awiya Belo, in the hilly terrain bordering Masaka in Nasarawa State.

Lieutenant Akor was kidnapped on March 21 alongside her sister and another civilian when armed criminals stormed the gate of Maman Vatsa Estate, blocked Mpape Road, and opened fire on passing vehicles.

The victims were later rescued during a joint security operation in the Karu area of Abuja, which also led to the recovery of money and other exhibits. Some relatives of the kidnappers were earlier taken into custody as part of efforts to track down the culprits.

Following ongoing investigations, Naval operatives successfully tracked and apprehended the suspects and handed them over to the FCT Police Command on Wednesday.

Items recovered from the suspects include four mobile phones, four ATM cards from various banks, a motorcycle, and a wristwatch, among other items.

While handing over the suspects, Commander of the Naval Unit, Commodore Oluseyi Oladipo, credited their arrest to the effective collaboration among security agencies in the FCT.

“It is to be noted that despite the commendable efforts of the Armed Forces, Police and other security agencies, the FCT is still confronted by the threats of kidnapping, “one chance” abductions and car theft among others.

Commodore Oladipo noted how a joint rescue operation was conducted when information was received about the officer’s kidnapping, adding that the operation, supported by human and technical intelligence, led to the release of the victims on March 23.

“Thereafter, follow-up operations led to the arrest of two suspects and an accomplice. The suspects have since confessed to their involvement in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other vices. “Accordingly, the suspects and the related exhibits have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force (FCT).

Command for further investigation and prosecution.

“Naval Unit Abuja remains committed to actualising the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, which is a highly motivated naval force capable of shaping security outcomes in Nigeria’s maritime domain, including land-based engagement.

“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.”