The [Kogi State Vigilante Service](https://kogistate.gov.ng) announced on Saturday that it had detained a 24‑year‑old individual suspected of belonging to a kidnapping syndicate active around the Kogi‑Enugu border. The suspect, identified as Muhammad Babuga, was taken into custody at approximately 7 p.m. on Thursday in Igabada, a community that straddles the two states.
**What intelligence prompted the operation?**
According to the service’s spokesperson, Idris S. Idris, operatives from the Igalamela Command acted on credible intelligence that led them to Babuga. The statement added that the detainee allegedly admitted to being a member of a criminal gang involved in kidnapping and that he had previously been released by the gang after a ransom payment.
**Who commented on the arrest?**
Alhaji Ibrahim Usman Anataku, the Comptroller‑General of the Vigilante Service, praised the team’s dedication, saying, “We commend our operatives for their commitment and effective security operations.” He urged the force to maintain the momentum in curbing criminal activities and thanked Governor Ahmed Ododo for his continued support, which he said has boosted morale and operational effectiveness.
**What is expected of the public?**
Anataku called on residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and reliable information that could help prevent crimes and aid in the apprehension of suspects. He stressed that public cooperation remains essential for safeguarding lives and property throughout the state.
The Vigilante Service reiterated its pledge to work alongside other security agencies to combat kidnapping and related crimes across Kogi State.