12 detained over ₦4.8 billion theft at Kainji, police bust kidnap scheme in Minna

Authorities in Niger State apprehended a dozen individuals linked to a large-scale theft and sabotage operation targeting the Kainji Power Plant, involving damages valued at over ₦4.8 billion. In a separate case, police uncovered a fabricated kidnapping plot aimed at extorting ₦7 million from unsuspecting victims in Minna.

The Niger State Police Command revealed the arrests in a statement issued Wednesday, attributing the discovery to an investigation prompted by Mainstream Energy Solutions Ltd’s complaint filed on August 11, 2025. Inspectors found that extensive vandalism had occurred at the power plant’s navigation lock yard, where valuable metals and beams were stripped away.

Initial detentions included two supervisors from the facility who were subsequently transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Minna for further questioning. Among those held are identified personnel: Shaibu Abu Sufyan (35) and Ibrahim Musa (31). While the suspects initially denied involvement, Abu Sufyan later admitted responsibility and exposed a network of ten additional security officers under his watch.

Further inquiry linked the group to scrap merchants Musa Khalid, Abah Khalid, and Abdullahi, located in Nasarawa village of Mashegu LGA. These dealers reportedly orchestrated the removal of metals using heavy-duty tools, cutting materials into transportable sizes during weekend nights. Transactions traced back to this ring amounted to millions of naira, with the stolen goods sold to firms across Lagos, Kwara, and Osun states.

Police confirmed pursuits to capture remaining accessories connected to the scheme.

Also, security officials in Minna dismantled a fraudulent kidnapping scam. Initial reports came to Tudun-Wada Division on September 2, 2025, revealing a staged abduction involving two men who conspired to extort money from acquaintances by feigning danger.

The duo, Ahmed Alh. Bura (21) from Bauchi State and Shafiu Ibrahim (22) of Makujeri, were apprehended on September 17, following intelligence operations. Both were found to have orchestrated their disappearance after attending a local car drifting event in Mandela area. They sought ₦7 million from colleagues, resulting in multiple arrests and recovery of numerous SIM cards linked to fraudulent marketing under the “Quest Int”l Company” banner.

These suspects remain in custody pending prosecution, alongside other members of the group. The police have pledged to maintain pressure on all fronts to safeguard public assets and ensure the rule of law.