The Nasarawa State Police Command has announced significant breakthroughs in its operations, rescuing 39 trafficked foreign nationals and arresting a suspected kidnapper in separate intelligence-led operations.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Mohammed Jauro, disclosed the developments during a press briefing held on December 1, 2025, at the Command Headquarters in Lafia. He reaffirmed the Command’s zero-tolerance stance toward human trafficking and related criminal networks.
39 Trafficked Persons Rescued in Mararaba
According to CP Jauro, operatives acted on credible intelligence on November 30, 2025, after reports indicated that foreign nationals who spoke only French and Arabic had been sighted around Orange Market in Mararaba, Karu Local Government Area.
A swift deploymen
t of detectives to the location led to the rescue of 32 males and 7 females—all Malian nationals, except one from Ivory Coast—who were found confined in a bungalow.
Preliminary investigations revealed that one Abdullahi Berter, a Malian residing in Nigeria, allegedly lured the victims from Mali under the guise of offering job opportunities in France. He reportedly transported them illegally into Nigeria and held them captive while directing them to recruit more persons for undisclosed purposes.
The prime suspect is currently at large, and a manhunt has been launched to apprehend him and other accomplices. The rescued victims are to be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further action.
Suspected Kidnapper Arrested, AK-47 Recovered
In another operation, police operatives arrested a suspected kidnapper, identified as Abubakar Adamu of Adudu District, on November 24, 2025, at Kertyo Village in Obi Local Government Area.
Acting on intelligence, the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit interrogated the suspect, who later led officers to his Ruga in Adudu, where a search yielded an AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and eleven rounds of 7.62 x 39mm live ammunition.
The suspect is currently in custody and will be charged to court upon completion of investigations.
Police Reassure Residents
CP Jauro emphasized that the Command remains unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, adding that Nasarawa State will remain unsafe for criminals of any type.
“Our operations reflect our determination to protect the vulnerable and dismantle criminal networks. Justice will find anyone involved in trafficking or kidnapping,” he stated.
Summary of Achievements
- Rescued Illegal Immigrants: 39
- Suspected Kidnapper Arrested: 1
- Firearm Recovered: 1 AK-47
- Magazines Recovered: 2
- Ammunition Recovered: 11 rounds
- Total Suspects Arrested: 1
The Command urged residents to continue supporting law enforcement by providing timely and credible information.
