The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced the arrest of Ibrahim Abdullahi, also known as Mandi, suspected to be the mastermind behind the horrific Abuja-Kaduna train attack that occurred in March 20221. This attack resulted in the death of several passengers and the abduction of many others.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, police operatives attached to an anti-kidnapping unit of the Kaduna State Criminal Investigation Department apprehended Ibrahim Abdullahi on January 12, 2024. The arrest took place at the Abuja-Kaduna Road flyover near Rido Junction. During the arrest, 48 AK-47 rifles were seized from the suspect. Investigations are currently underway to identify his sponsor and supplier of weapons.
Ibrahim Abdullahi, aka Mandi, confessed to being the leader of a kidnap syndicate that terrorized the Kaduna-Abuja highway. He was involved in various kidnapping incidents, including the abduction of students from Green Field University. His criminal activities extended to almost all the kidnappings along the Abuja-Kaduna highway.
The police have also made significant strides in combating criminal activities along the Abuja-Kaduna expressway. Between January and the present, they arrested 81 armed robbers, 40 kidnappers, 73 murder/homicide suspects, 36 rape suspects, 22 individuals involved in cult-related crimes, and 28 suspects engaged in other criminal activities. These efforts were part of a strategic initiative implemented by the force to enhance security along the highway2.
Additionally, the police successfully recovered 16 firearms of various types, along with 226 rounds of diverse calibers. Their operations also led to the retrieval of 28 stolen vehicles, over 200 harmful weapons, and 600 bags of fertilizers. Notably, they managed to recover a total of ₦3,350,000 (three million, three hundred and fifty thousand Naira) previously paid as ransom to kidnappers. Furthermore, their swift and coordinated efforts resulted in the safe rescue of 158 kidnapped victims, all of whom have been reunited with their families unharmed2.
The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Kayode Egbetokun, remains committed to upholding the rule of law, ensuring the safety and security of all citizens, and combating criminal activities across the country2.
The Abuja-Kaduna train attack, carried out by bloodthirsty terrorists, occurred on March 28. The attackers planted explosive devices along the rail track, causing the train to derail and leading to the death of eight passengers. Subsequently, another passenger who suffered a gunshot wound died, bringing the total fatalities to nine. The Nigerian Railway Corporation’s manifest indicated that 398 passengers had purchased tickets, but only 362 were validated as having done so.
The arrest of Ibrahim Abdullahi, aka Mandi, represents a significant breakthrough in the fight against criminal elements responsible for violence and insecurity in the region. The police continue to work diligently to maintain law and order, safeguard lives, and restore peace to affected communities.
