During a security operation in Kauru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, troops killed a suspected infamous kidnapping kingpin known as Idi Yaya.
Details about the event were revealed in a post on X by security analyst Zagazola Makama.
According to the post, troops acted on intelligence obtained around 6:10 a.m. on Monday indicating that the suspect, who had previously been on a wanted list for kidnapping, had returned in the region.
The suspect was eventually tracked down to the Kikoba neighbourhood, where he was apprehended after a coordinated operation at approximately 11:15 p.m. the same day.
According to security sources, the suspect had been hidden for several months before reappearing in the neighbourhood.
He was purportedly recognised by a victim who had previously escaped from detention, confirming his involvement in abduction activities.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to his crimes and gave the location of his weapon as well as gang members’ hideouts.
However, while forces were bringing him to one of the suspected hideouts about 9:35 p.m. on Tuesday, he allegedly attempted to flee by stealing a soldier’s weapon.
He was eventually neutralised during the struggle.
Security sources further stated that eight rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition were utilised during the operation.
As activities continue throughout the area, efforts are being made to hunt down and arrest other members of the suspect’s kidnapping network.