Niger Police Arrest Suspected Kidnappers with Weapons in Ongoing Investigation
The Niger State Police arrested two men, Japhta James and Usman Ibrahim, for attempting to kidnap a woman in Kata. The suspects, apprehended with multiple weapons, confessed to plotting for ransom. The police are conducting further investigations and plan to charge the suspects soon.
In a swift operation, the Niger State Police Command apprehended two individuals suspected of attempted kidnapping within the region. The suspects, identified as 28-year-old Japhta James and 30-year-old Usman Ibrahim, both hailing from different areas, were caught in the act while attempting to abduct a young woman in Kata, located via New-Bwari. Reports indicate that the police were tipped off about the situation, allowing them to arrive on the scene promptly, resulting in the suspects’ arrest.
Upon their capture, officers discovered a significant cache of weapons and equipment. Among the items seized were a locally made pistol, a pair of knives, a walkie-talkie, two cartridges, four mobile phones, an ATM card, electric tasers, a pepper spray, and some charms. The scale of this arsenal illustrates the serious nature of the suspects’ intended crime.
According to statements from police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun, both suspects admitted to planning the kidnapping for ransom. In their confessions, James and Ibrahim revealed that they intended to abduct the victim’s sister, aiming to extort money in exchange for her safe return. They also mentioned that the recovered weapons had been purchased from a person pretending to be part of a civilian organ tasked with security in the area.
The arrest occurred on the evening of June 13, 2025, when law enforcement responded to a distress call around 8 PM. The police were quick to act, and their response was critical in preventing the crime from escalating. Abiodun confirmed this information in a statement released on Monday night, emphasizing the ongoing investigation and the likelihood of prosecution for the suspects.
The Niger State Police plans to transfer the suspects to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further questioning and necessary legal proceedings. This incident underscores the persistent threat of kidnapping in regions where such crimes have been an increasing concern, drawing attention to the need for vigilance and community cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
The timely intervention of the Niger State Police in apprehending two attempted kidnappers highlights the ongoing struggle against such crimes in the region. Armed with various weapons, the suspects admitted to plotting an abduction for ransom. Their case now moves forward into deeper investigations and expected prosecution, reflecting a broader commitment to enhancing public safety and addressing kidnapping incidents in Niger State.
Original Source: punchng.com
