Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have intensified their crackdown on the criminal gang responsible for the abduction of Professor Samuel Avengbe Okunsebor, the Dean of Agriculture at Nasarawa State University. On Friday night, three more suspects believed to be members of the kidnapping ring were arrested, bringing the total number of arrests to five.
Arrests at a Local Brothel
The latest arrests were made at a local brothel located on the Mararraban Akunza, along the Lafia–Makurdi highway, according to a security source who spoke on condition of anonymity. The suspects were identified as 25-year-old Yakubu Abubakar, also known as Black or Starboy, from the Doemak tribe in Plateau State; 37-year-old Usman Abubakar Mairiga, a Hausa; and 27-year-old Sale Babauro Abubakar, a Fulani.
The source revealed that the suspects are currently in the custody of the State Command for further investigation. The arrests were made following a valid detention warrant obtained from a magistrate's court, the source added.
Background of the Kidnapping
Professor Okunsebor was kidnapped in the wee hours of Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Mile Uku, a border community between Lafia and Nasarawa-Eggon Local Government Areas. He was rescued by DSS operatives two days later. At the time of his rescue, two suspects, including a lady, had already been arrested.
With the latest arrests, a total of five suspects are now in custody, signaling a major breakthrough in the investigation. The DSS has not yet released an official statement, but the security source indicated that more arrests are likely as the investigation deepens.
Implications for Security
This development highlights the ongoing efforts of security agencies to combat kidnapping in Nasarawa State, which has seen a rise in such incidents. The arrest of the suspects at a brothel underscores the hideouts often used by criminals. The DSS's swift action in rescuing the professor and arresting the suspects demonstrates their commitment to ensuring the safety of citizens.
As the investigation continues, the public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies. The university community, particularly the faculty of agriculture, has expressed relief at the rescue and the arrests, hoping for a thorough prosecution of the suspects.
