Security operatives in Nasarawa State successfully disrupted a kidnapping attempt along the Lafia-Akwanga highway, leaving one suspect dead while others escaped with injuries.
The incident happened in the early hours of Monday around the Rice Mill axis in Nasarawa Eggon, according to a statement by Police Public Relations Officer SP Ramhan Nansel.
The police explained that officers from the Nasarawa Eggon Division were on routine patrol when they came across a group of armed men who had blocked the highway with stones, allegedly preparing to ambush passing motorists.
On spotting the patrol team, the suspects opened fire, triggering a gun duel. During the exchange, one of the attackers was hit and later died from his injuries, while the rest fled into nearby bushes.
The deceased suspect was identified as Auta Habu, believed to be linked to a Fulani settlement in Gidan Waya and suspected of involvement in earlier criminal activities in the area.
Following the confrontation, the State Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohamed, ordered additional security deployment to the scene to stabilise the situation. Authorities confirmed that the highway has since been cleared and reopened to motorists.
Police say efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects, while urging residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activity.
The command also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining security across the state, stressing that operations will continue to deny criminals any haven.
