Son, gang member arrested over alleged kidnapping of wealthy father — NPF

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has detained two suspects linked to a kidnapping and armed robbery syndicate over the alleged abduction of an elderly man in Kaduna State.

The suspects, Yusuf Rabo and Musa Adamu, were taken into custody during an investigation into the kidnapping of Alhaji Rabo Jelani, who was reportedly seized for ransom by individuals believed to be close to him.

A statement from the Nigerian police said that investigations revealed Yusuf Rabo allegedly conspired with Musa Adamu and Ali Haruna, the victim’s grandson who is currently on the run, to carry out the abduction. The motive cited was the elderly man’s supposed substantial wealth and livestock.

According to the police, the suspects were connected to a violent criminal network operating within Kaduna State and neighbouring communities.

Investigators also discovered that the gang had acquired and used several AK‑47 rifles for their operations.

The police disclosed that Ali Haruna allegedly supplied one of the rifles belonging to his father, while other weapons used by the syndicate were obtained through other members of the group.

During the operation, security operatives recovered one AK‑47 rifle with an empty magazine.

Findings by investigators also showed that the victim was kidnapped on different occasions and taken to forest hideouts where ransom negotiations were allegedly handled by Yusuf Rabo.

According to the police, the first abduction reportedly led to the payment of N2 million ransom, while a later operation generated N4.5 million.

The gang was also allegedly connected to other violent crimes in the area, including the abduction of a trader identified as Mr. Iyke, and an armed robbery operation along the Kagoma axis where commuters were reportedly robbed of cash and other valuables.

The police said efforts were ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect, Ali Haruna, and recover more weapons and other exhibits connected to the crimes.

“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect, Ali Haruna, and recover additional weapons and exhibits connected to the crimes,” the statement said.

The Force reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling kidnapping and armed robbery gangs across the country through sustained intelligence‑led operations.