Police Arrest Suspected Kidnappers with Weapons in Niger

Niger State Police have arrested two men, Japhta James and Usman Ibrahim, for attempted kidnapping. They were caught in the act at a victim’s home in Kata, armed with weapons and intending to demand ransom. The suspects have confessed, and investigations are ongoing, with prosecution expected soon.

The Niger State Police Command has successfully apprehended two individuals suspected of kidnapping. The arrested suspects, identified as 28-year-old Japhta James and 30-year-old Usman Ibrahim, are residents of Ijah-Gwari and Sabon-Gari, respectively. Their alleged crime unfolded in a victim’s home located in Kata, where they reportedly attempted to abduct a woman using weapons.

According to police reports, the suspects broke into the victim’s residence armed with dangerous items, intending to kidnap the victim’s sister. However, law enforcement officials from the Tafa Police Division acted swiftly after receiving a tip-off. The timely response led to the arrest of the suspects at the scene of the crime.

Upon their capture, authorities recovered a range of items from the suspects, including a locally made pistol, two knives, a walkie-talkie, and various electronic devices. Additionally, they were found in possession of an ATM card, two electric tasers, pepper spray, and what appeared to be charms. This extensive arsenal raises concerns about the suspects’ motives and planning.

During their interrogation, James and Ibrahim admitted to plotting the kidnapping, revealing that their goal was to demand a ransom. They mentioned that the weapons and other equipment were obtained from one of their associates, who allegedly posed as a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF), which adds a layer of complexity to their operation.

Wasiu Abiodun, the spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, confirmed the details of the arrest in a statement. He communicated that the suspects are currently under investigation and are expected to be prosecuted shortly. “On June 13, 2025, at around 8 p.m., based on a distress call received, police operatives attached to Tafa Division arrested the two suspects,” he said.

Abiodun further elaborated that the suspects had entered the premises intending to commit a serious crime and that immediate action by the police prevented this from happening. The ongoing investigation and potential prosecution highlight the police command’s commitment to tackling crime head-on in the state.

The arrest of Japhta James and Usman Ibrahim highlights a successful intervention by Nigerian authorities in a potential kidnapping scenario. Their swift response likely prevented a serious crime. As investigations continue, the case underscores ongoing concerns about armed criminal activity in the region.

Original Source: punchng.com