Security agents apprehend alleged abduction mastermind, terrorism suspect in Plateau

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By Golok Nanmwa, JOS

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Security operatives in Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State have arrested suspected kidnappers, armed robbers, motorcycle thieves and a suspected terror collaborator in a major security breakthrough aimed at curbing criminal activities in the area.

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The arrests were disclosed by the executive chairman of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Council, Hon. Dr Christopher Audu Manship, during a security briefing in Doemak on Friday, where some of the suspects were paraded.

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A statement by the chairman’s director of press and publicity, Danaan Cletus Sylvanus, said one of the suspects, Thomas Dayoung, confessed to plotting the kidnap of his employer following a personal dispute.

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The statement reads that Dayoung told security investigators that he enlisted the support of an associate, Austin Danaan, and other accomplices to carry out the abduction.

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However, when they failed to locate the intended target, they allegedly kidnapped the employer’s daughter-in-law instead.

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The suspects were subsequently arrested in a coordinated operation by security agencies and are currently in custody.

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In another incident, armed robbers reportedly blocked the Kwande axis of Qua’an-Pan by placing obstacles on the road, causing an accident that claimed the lives of two travellers and left several others injured.

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The attackers allegedly robbed passengers travelling from Lafia, making away with cash and livestock.

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One of the victims, Muhammadu Salisu of Shendam Local Government Area, reported the incident to the council chairman, prompting a swift investigation by security agencies.

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The operation led to the arrest of one Umar Baba, who allegedly confessed to participating in the robbery.

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Security officials said the suspect produced ₦800,000 and refunded an additional ₦500,000 realised from the sale of three rams stolen during the attack.

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Security operatives also arrested Abdulsalam Musa of Kwalla in Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area in connection with motorcycle theft.

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Investigators said the suspect confessed to involvement in the theft of more than three motorcycles and disclosed that members of the gang operated with AK-47 rifles.

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Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate.

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In a related development, Ali Adams of Jipial in neighbouring Nasarawa State was arrested for alleged involvement in terrorist activities.

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According to security officials, the suspect confessed to being part of a network of more than 40 individuals allegedly involved in criminal and terror-related activities across parts of Plateau and Nasarawa states.

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He is currently assisting security agencies with ongoing investigations.

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Speaking during the briefing, Dr Manship reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on crime and criminality, vowing that anyone found engaging in criminal activities within Qua’an-Pan would face the full weight of the law.

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“Our administration will not provide any hiding place for criminals.

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We will continue to work closely with security agencies to ensure the protection of lives and property across the local government,” he said.

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The chairman commended the military, police, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other security agencies for their professionalism, coordination and commitment, which he said contributed to the success of the operations.

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He also directed that funds recovered from the robbery suspects be returned to their rightful owner.

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Manship further expressed appreciation to Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his continued support in strengthening security across Plateau State, describing the governor as a dependable partner in the fight against insecurity.

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