3 Arrested Over Kidnap of Naval Officer in Abuja

April 18, 2025

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3 Arrested Over Kidnap of Naval Officer in Abuja

This situation is upon us on October 2023 after the third arrest of the three suspects connected in the kidnap of Nigerian Navy Lieutenant Cynthia Akor in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

Akor was kidnapped on March 21 with two civilians after armed attacks on the Maman Vatsa Estate gate, barricading Mpape Road, and firing at moving vehicles.

The kidnappers later called to demand 500 million naira for the naval officer and 200 million naira each for the civilians.

They were later recovered through a joint security operation involving the Federal Capital Territory Police Command and the military.

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The suspects, two of whom were directly involved in the abduction and the other as an accomplice, were arrested by operatives of Naval Unit in a community bordering Masaka in neighboring Nasarawa State.

While handing over the suspects to the police on Wednesday, April 16, the Commander of the Naval Unit, Commodore Oluseyi Oladipo, indicated that the arrest came as a result of a synergy among the security agencies at work within the FCT.

“The suspects have since confessed to their involvement in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other criminal activities,” he said.

“Accordingly, the suspects and the related exhibits have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force (FCT Command) for further investigation and prosecution.”

Despite the successful operation, Oladipo stated that Abuja is still challenged with insecurity stemming from kidnappings, “one chance” abduction, and vehicle theft.

He reiterated the Navy’s commitment to contributing to national security both on land and on sea in support of the vision of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.

“We also sincerely laud the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, for his steps to assure enhanced security towards the development of the FCT.”