By Musa Ibrahim, Jos
Joint security operatives in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State have arrested two suspected kidnappers and recovered N8 million ransom paid by a victim’s family, while also rescuing an abducted woman from captivity.
The Chairman of Qua’an Pan Local Government Council, Hon. Dr. Christopher Audu Manship, confirmed the development in a statement issued by his media aide, Danaan Cletus Sylvanus.
The suspects were identified as Waltu Watter and Sale Mamma.
According to the statement, the suspects allegedly murdered Alhaji Saidu Mamma and abducted his daughter, subsequently demanding and collecting N8 million ransom.
Following a coordinated operation, security agencies apprehended the suspects and recovered the full ransom.
During the parade of the suspects, Manship reiterated his administration’s firm stance against criminality.
“We will not allow criminals to operate in Qua’an Pan or use this local government as a hiding place after committing crimes in neighbouring councils or states,” he said.
He directed that the recovered ransom be returned to the victim’s family.
In a related development, security operatives rescued Mrs. Gambo Bello, who was kidnapped in Padama, Lafia East Local Government Area of Nasarawa State and taken to Pandam Game Reserve.
Manship said intelligence reports prompted a search operation that led to her rescue.
Narrating her experience, Bello said she spent over a week in captivity before being freed during a gun battle.
“The security men came and exchanged gunfire with them. After some time, the kidnappers ran away and the operatives rescued me from the bush,” she said.
Manship noted that the operation marked the third successful arrest of kidnappers and recovery of ransom in the area, attributing the success to collaboration among security agencies and divine intervention.
He also commended Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for supporting security efforts and pledged to strengthen surveillance across border communities.
© 2026, Standard Focus. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from STANDARD FOCUS.