The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully neutralized a notorious kidnapper, Dogo Saleh, who had been terrorizing residents and travelers along the Kaduna-Lokoja-Enugu highway and within the FCT.
According to a statement released on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, by the FCT Police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, the operation was part of an intensified crackdown on criminal syndicates responsible for violent crimes in the region.
How the Police Tracked and Took Him Down
Acting on credible intelligence about the movement of bandits into the FCT, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit swiftly launched a well-coordinated operation.
The team successfully intercepted Salisu Mohammed, also known as Dogo Saleh, at Gidan Abe Forest as he attempted to make his way into Bwari Area Council.
Investigations revealed that the 21-year-old criminal, originally from Baban Saural village in Kaduna State, was a deadly hitman for bandit leaders operating in Rijana Forest.
He had been deeply involved in multiple high-profile kidnappings, often demanding millions of naira in ransom from victims’ families.
What Was Found in His Possession?
During the operation, he attempted to escape but was eventually subdued. Police recovered:
- An AK-49 rifle with two magazines
- 60 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition
- ₦3,000,000 in cash, proceeds from previous kidnappings
A History of Deadly Kidnappings
Further investigations linked him to several criminal activities, including:
- Kyauta Village, Chikun LGA (two years ago) – Two people kidnapped and later killed after a huge ransom was paid.
- Kike Village (one year ago) – A security officer’s wife kidnapped; ransom paid in millions.
- Bagada Village (five months ago) – Three people kidnapped; ransom collected.
- Kaduna Refinery Area (one year ago) – Two men kidnapped; ransom paid.
- Attack on Security Outpost at Kujama Market (January 5, 2025) – Two security officers killed, firearms stolen.
The Final Showdown
Following his arrest, police operatives launched a high-risk follow-up operation on March 4, 2025, at Kwasau Forest, Kagarko LGA, Kaduna State, where his gang, led by Kanabaro, had a major hideout.
However, as the police closed in, the gang ambushed them, leading to a fierce gun battle. The criminals were eventually overpowered, forcing them to flee deep into the forest with severe gunshot wounds.
Shockingly, during the crossfire, Salisu Mohammed was fatally shot by his own gang members. He was later taken to Kubwa General Hospital, where he was confirmed dead.
Police Recover More Weapons
During the operation, security operatives recovered:
- An AK-47 rifle with a scratched-out serial number
- One magazine loaded with two rounds of live ammunition
What Next?
The Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism while assuring residents that operations to dismantle all criminal networks in the region are ongoing.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals with gunshot wounds through the following emergency lines:
☎️ 08032003913, 08028940883, 07057337653
📞 Complaint Response Unit: 08107314192
This marks a major victory in the fight against banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria’s capital region.
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