A joint operation by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command and the military has successfully freed Lieutenant Cynthia Akor, a naval officer, along with two civilians abducted in Mpape, Abuja, on March 21, 2025.
How the Abduction Happened
Armed criminals stormed the Maman Vatsa Estate gate around 7:35 p.m., blocking Mpape Road and shooting at moving vehicles. They then seized the three victims and escaped.
Shortly after, the kidnappers contacted the victims’ families, demanding N500 million for the naval officer and N200 million each for the civilians.
Swift Rescue Operation
After receiving a distress call, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) DCP Isyaku Sharu led a joint task force to track the kidnappers. The team included police anti-kidnapping officers, military personnel, DSS operatives, and local hunters.
They searched Mpape, Gidan Bawa, Anguwan Mu’azu, and Yelwa Hills, covering areas in both the FCT and Nasarawa State.
Arrests and Ransom Recovery
Acting on intelligence, security forces traced the suspects to a Fulani resettlement in Anguwan Mu’azu and Yelwa Hills. Between 2:00 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. on March 23, officers stormed the hideout, arresting four suspects and rescuing the victims unharmed.
Authorities also recovered N3.2 million, suspected to be ransom money from previous kidnappings.
Security Measures Strengthened
The police have increased security in Mpape and nearby areas to prevent future attacks. A manhunt is underway for the remaining kidnappers.
Residents have been urged to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities.
IGP Warns Against Illegal Detentions
In a separate development, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun warned officers against keeping suspects in custody beyond the legal timeframe.
Force Spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi stressed that unlawful detentions violate Nigeria’s Constitution, which guarantees personal liberty and dignity.
The IGP promised strict consequences for any officer who disregards these rules. He emphasized that police must respect human rights while maintaining law and order.
