Authorities in Kogi State say they have uncovered a well-organised network of individuals and businesses secretly supporting kidnapping gangs operating in parts of the state.
In a statement released on Sunday, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said recent joint security operations were launched across Kabba/Bunu, Ijumu, Yagba East, and Yagba West Local Government Areas in response to rising insecurity.
The crackdown followed several high-profile abductions, including the kidnapping and killing of a retired army officer from Odo-Ape and the abduction of a well-known farmer in Ponyan, Yagba East. While the farmer and several other victims were later rescued, the incidents prompted urgent investigations.
One of the key breakthroughs came with the case of Samson Enietan, a suspected informant for kidnapping gangs. While initial reports claimed Enietan died by suicide, the state government suspects he may have been killed by members of the criminal group to prevent further revelations.
Fanwo also confirmed that in a related rescue operation in Kiri, Kabba/Bunu, victims provided information that led to the arrest of Babatunde Aledare, a local man who confessed to working as an informant for the kidnappers. His confession reportedly led to further arrests within 48 hours.
The commissioner revealed disturbing findings from the investigation, including evidence that local businesses such as bread sellers, sachet water factories, and motorcycle operators—have been supplying food and water to kidnappers hiding in remote forest areas. Some fuel stations were also found to be selling petrol in containers for delivery to criminal camps.
“These illegal supply chains have allowed the kidnappers to sustain their operations deep in the bush,” Fanwo said. “But we are determined to dismantle them.”
He warned that anyone found aiding or abetting criminal activities whether by providing goods, fuel, or logistics would be treated as a direct accomplice and prosecuted accordingly.
“No one, regardless of status or position, will be spared if found guilty of enabling or supporting criminality,” he said.
The Kogi State Government pledged to intensify its crackdown in collaboration with security agencies to restore safety and peace to the affected communities.