By Richard Anyebe
A notorious wanted kidnapper, Musa Wada (Sabo) Magaji, met his end in the early hours of Friday after operatives of the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Bureau – Intelligence Response Team (FIB-IRT) engaged him and other kidnappers in a gun battle around Mpape, Abuja.
The gun battle which lasted about 30 minutes was carried out by the operatives while acting on intelligence.
A statement issued by the Force Spokesman, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Saturday said, many notorious kidnappers were also killed in the operation.
ACP Adejobi said the team also destroyed the camps of the dreaded kidnappers “who have been thorns in the flesh of Abuja residents in recent times.”
According to him, the gun battle left many other bandits fatally injured while one of the police operatives sustained bullet wounds.
“This significant achievement follows closely on the heels of the neutralization of Abubakar Wada, an associate of Musa Wada, on February 8, 2024, who served as a lead to their hideout,” the statement reads
“Musa Wada, aka Sabo, was the mastermind behind numerous kidnappings for ransom activities plaguing areas including Mpape and Bwari in the FCT; Kagarko in Kaduna; Masaka, and Nukun Village in Nasarawa State. His modus operandi involved identifying wealthy targets and mobilizing armed gangs to carry out abductions for ransom.
“The successful raid on their hideout, situated in the outskirts of Mpape Hills, was conducted by the brave men of the FIB-IRT through a surprise assault, resulting in the elimination of these notorious criminals. Additionally, items recovered from the hideout include mobile phones, multiple SIM cards, charms, and hard drugs, which are crucial pieces of evidence aiding ongoing investigations.
“Efforts are on to recover additional arms and ammunition and other equipment they use for their nefarious operations.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens, and will continue to employ proactive measures to dismantle criminal networks and bring perpetrators of heinous crimes to justice, against all odds.”