The Nasarawa State Police Command says it has recorded another success story in compliance with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and its relentless efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure the safety of lives and property.

According to a statement made available to Arewa PUNCH correspondent in Lafia, the state capital, on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ramhan Nansel, this followed the intervention of the police in foiling the kidnap of unsuspecting commuters and residents along the Nasarawa Eggon–Akwanga Highway in the state.

Narrating the incident, Nansel explained that recently, a patrol team attached to the Nasarawa Eggon Division, while on routine patrol along the Nasarawa Eggon–Akwanga Highway, discovered an attempted kidnapping incident near a rice mill in Nasarawa Eggon.

He said the team observed that the highway had been barricaded with stones by unknown armed young men suspected to be kidnappers, with the intention of attacking unsuspecting motorists.

“Upon sighting the police patrol team, the hoodlums opened fire, prompting a swift and decisive response from the operatives.

“In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, the criminals were overpowered. One of the suspects was neutralised, while others fled into the surrounding bush with possible gunshot wounds,” he explained.

According to him, following a distress alert, the Commissioner of Police, Nasarawa State Command, Shetima Jauro Mohamed, promptly mobilised a reinforcement team to the scene to ensure that the area was secured and normalcy restored.

The police spokesperson further explained that the injured suspect was immediately rushed to a medical facility, where he was confirmed dead by a doctor.

He added: “The deceased was later identified as one Auta Habu of a Ruga (Fulani settlement) in Gidan Waya, Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area of the state, who, investigations further revealed, had been involved in several criminal activities.

“The highway has since been cleared and is now safe for motorists and other road users. Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing members of the gang,” the police assured the motoring public.

The PPRO, while reiterating the command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to the nearest police station.