Swift joint security operation in Rukubi foils gang after night raid, rescues community from further attacks

The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a significant breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on kidnapping, arresting eight suspected gang members and recovering firearms during a coordinated security operation in Nasarawa State.

The suspects were apprehended in Rukubi Community, Doma Local Government Area, after armed attackers stormed the area on the night of May 6, 2026. The assailants reportedly fired gunshots indiscriminately, causing widespread panic before abducting two residents from their homes.

In response, operatives of the Nasarawa State Police Command, working in synergy with other security agencies, local vigilante groups, and community youths, swiftly launched a manhunt. The joint operation led to the successful arrest of the suspects and the disruption of the criminal network.

Police identified those arrested as Adamu Alfa, Muhammed Alfa, Shuaibu Alfa, Usman Alfa, Ali Alfa, Isa Alfa, another Adamu Alfa, and Ja’afaru Alfa—all said to hail from Rugan Alhaji Alfa in Rukubi Village.

During the operation, security forces recovered two AK-47 rifles, four Bajaj motorcycles believed to have been used by the suspects, and two expended 7.62mm ammunition shells linked to the attack.

The police added that one of the suspects sustained fatal injuries during the operation and later died while receiving treatment.

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, praised the operatives for their courage and professionalism, describing the operation as a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and inter-agency collaboration.

The Force also commended local vigilantes, community youths, and residents for their vital support, noting that their cooperation played a key role in the success of the mission.