The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has arrested two suspected members of a kidnapping and armed robbery syndicate linked to the abduction of an elderly man in Kaduna State.

The suspects, identified as Yusuf Rabo and Musa Adamu, were apprehended during an investigation into the alleged kidnapping of Alhaji Rabo Jelani, who was reportedly abducted for ransom by people believed to be close to him.

According to a statement issued by the police, investigations revealed that Yusuf Rabo allegedly conspired with Musa Adamu and Ali Haruna, the victim’s grandson who is currently on the run, to carry out the abduction over claims that the elderly man possessed significant wealth and livestock.

Police authorities said the suspects were connected to a violent criminal network operating across Kaduna State and nearby communities.

Investigators also discovered that the gang allegedly acquired and used several AK-47 rifles during their operations. The police said Ali Haruna reportedly supplied one of the rifles belonging to his father, while other weapons were sourced through members of the syndicate.

During the operation, security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle with an empty magazine.

Further findings showed that the victim was allegedly kidnapped on multiple occasions and taken to forest hideouts where ransom negotiations were reportedly coordinated by Yusuf Rabo.

The police disclosed that the first abduction allegedly resulted in the payment of N2 million ransom, while another operation later generated N4.5 million.

The syndicate was also linked to other criminal activities in the area, including the alleged abduction of a trader identified as Mr Iyke and an armed robbery attack along the Kagoma axis where commuters were reportedly dispossessed of cash and valuables.

The police said efforts were ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect, Ali Haruna, and recover additional weapons and exhibits connected to the crimes.

“Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect, Ali Haruna, and recover additional weapons and exhibits connected to the crimes,” the statement added.

The Force reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling kidnapping and armed robbery gangs across the country through sustained intelligence-led operations