Security Forces Arrest “Gwandara,” Notorious Kidnap Kingpin, Logistics Supplier in Abuja

Security operatives have arrested a suspected kidnap kingpin identified as Y’au Ibrahim Dauda, popularly known as “Gwandara 01,” during an intelligence-led operation in Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory.

The suspect, long believed to be a major figure in several abduction networks across Abuja and parts of Niger State, was taken into custody following a coordinated raid by the Scorpion Squad.

According to security sources, the arrest took place around 5:40 p.m. after operatives tracked him to a location where he was allegedly planning further operations.

Investigators describe Gwandara as both a kidnap kingpin and a key logistics supplier for bandit groups, responsible for providing support in the form of weapons, information, transport, and operational coordination.

Authorities link him to a series of high-profile kidnapping incidents within the Bwari axis, including attacks recorded between 2024 and 2025. He is also suspected to have played a role in abductions in Garam, Tafa Local Government Area of Niger State, as well as the kidnapping of a pastor in 2024 at El-Rufai Estate near the Nigerian Law School in Bwari.

Security officials say his capture represents a significant break in ongoing efforts to dismantle the growing web of kidnap-for-ransom cells operating around the capital city.

They noted that several members of his network fled during the operation, and follow-up raids are underway to apprehend them and recover weapons believed to be in circulation.

The arrest comes amid heightened security operations in the Federal Capital Territory, following an upsurge in criminal activity and a renewed government push to neutralise syndicates threatening residents’ safety.

While operatives express confidence that the arrest will disrupt the gang’s activities, investigations are still ongoing, and a formal arraignment is expected once preliminary findings are completed.

Residents of Bwari and neighbouring communities, who have repeatedly raised the alarm over kidnappings in recent years, welcomed the development with cautious optimism as security forces continue to pursue other members of the network.