Nasarawa State’s anti-kidnapping squad demonstrated exceptional efficiency by thwarting a kidnapping attempt on the family of Dr. Leon Usigbe, the Abuja Bureau Chief of the Nigerian Tribune, early Monday morning. The harrowing incident took place at Dr. Usigbe’s residence on Kurape Road in Karshi, near the Federal Capital Territory, around 12:50 am.

Newsmen understands that the assailants began their attack by shooting and injuring a vigilant neighbor who was guarding the property. Undeterred, one of the intruders managed to scale the perimeter fence and unlock the gate, allowing his accomplices to breach the compound.

Once inside, the attackers vandalized windows with stones and attempted to break down both the front and back doors. Fortunately, they were unable to gain entry into the house. The swift action of the anti-kidnapping squad, recently deployed in response to a rising wave of abductions in the area, turned the tide. After being alerted, the squad arrived promptly, and a fierce shootout ensued. During the exchange of gunfire, three soldiers sustained injuries, but the squad ultimately succeeded in repelling the attackers, who fled the scene.

Although Dr. Usigbe was not home at the time of the attack, his wife and children were present and left deeply traumatized by the terrifying ordeal. This incident marks the third kidnapping attempt in the Karshi area within the last three months, highlighting the persistent threat that residents face. Notably, two other families in the vicinity have previously paid ransoms for the release of their abducted loved ones, underscoring the growing crisis of kidnapping and banditry affecting states bordering Abuja, including Nasarawa.

Local authorities have acknowledged the alarming trend and are actively working to combat these criminal activities. Recent efforts have resulted in notable successes, including the arrest of two suspects linked to kidnapping and banditry operations across Nasarawa, Taraba, and Plateau States.