Monarch abducted in Nasarawa rescued by police in daring operation

DDM News

The traditional ruler of Dari, Sangarin Dari, who was abducted last week, has regained his freedom following a daring police operation.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the monarch was rescued unhurt on Sunday, June 2, 2025, after spending nearly a week in captivity.

According to a statement released by the Nasarawa State Police Command, the operation was led by the Command’s Search and Rescue Team under tight security and strategic intelligence.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, confirmed that the rescue was executed in the Panwasa Mountains around Mada Station, where the monarch had been held.

He explained that sustained pressure and precise intelligence gathering were key to the monarch’s safe recovery.

The abduction had occurred on May 28, sparking outrage and concern among the residents of the region.

Security agents, with support from local informants, combed the forests and mountainous terrains over several days to narrow down the location.

The police noted that no ransom was paid and no casualties were recorded during the rescue operation.

After being freed, the monarch was taken to a nearby hospital where medical personnel confirmed that he was in stable condition.

He has since been reunited with his family amid joyous celebrations and relief across the Dari community.

Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, expressed appreciation to members of the public for their crucial support and timely intelligence.

He also acknowledged the role played by local vigilantes and sister security agencies who contributed to the success of the rescue mission.

CP Mohammed stated that the rescue once again highlights the value of community collaboration in addressing crime and insecurity.

He reiterated the police’s commitment to pursuing the fleeing suspects involved in the kidnapping.

The police also revealed that investigations are ongoing to determine the identities and motives of the kidnappers.

Residents of Dari and its environs have called on the government to enhance security presence in the region to prevent a recurrence.

The incident adds to the growing concerns about the safety of traditional rulers and community leaders in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region.

In recent years, several monarchs across the country have been targets of kidnappings, mostly for ransom.

Security experts believe that mountainous regions such as the Panwasa hills have become safe havens for criminal gangs due to their rough terrain and limited surveillance.

The Nasarawa State Government has yet to release an official statement on the incident, but community leaders have lauded the efforts of the police.

Many are calling for a permanent security post to be established around the Panwasa area to prevent it from becoming a hotspot for criminal activity.

The rescue of Sangarin Dari comes as a morale booster for law enforcement agencies in the state, who have come under pressure in recent times over rising insecurity.

Stakeholders have urged the government to increase funding for security operations and intelligence gathering in rural areas.

They also emphasized the need to empower local vigilante groups with logistics and training to complement official security efforts.

This incident serves as a reminder of the increasing dangers facing traditional rulers in Nigeria, who play pivotal roles in community stability and grassroots governance.

DDM will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more details emerge regarding the identities and arrest of the fleeing suspects.

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