Police operatives in Nasarawa State have foiled a suspected kidnap attempt along the Lafia–Akwanga highway, preventing what could have been an attack on motorists.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, said a patrol team from the Nasarawa Eggon Division discovered the road barricaded with stones by armed youths suspected to be kidnappers targeting unsuspecting road users.
According to him, the suspects opened fire on sighting the police team, prompting a swift response from operatives. In the exchange, one suspect was neutralised while others fled into nearby bushes with suspected gunshot wounds.
Following a distress call, the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohamed, deployed reinforcement teams to secure the area and restore normalcy.
The injured suspect was taken to a medical facility where he was confirmed dead.
He was later identified as Auta Habu, allegedly linked to criminal activities along the Lafia–Nasarawa Eggon–Akwanga corridor.
The Police said efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the gang, while urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.