Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have successfully neutralized a notorious kidnap kingpin, Salisu Mohammed, also known as Dogo Saleh. He was wanted for leading several high-profile kidnappings and violent crimes along major highways and within the FCT.
The police noted that his gang operated primarily along the Kaduna–Lokoja–Enugu highway and neighboring states, causing fear among residents and travelers. His death marks a significant victory in the ongoing fight against criminal elements in the region.
On March 3, 2025, officers from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit acted on credible intelligence about bandits moving into the FCT. Led by the Officer-in-Charge, they blocked the gang’s routes and successfully intercepted Salisu Mohammed at Gidan Abe Forest while he was heading toward Bwari Area Council.
The 21-year-old suspect, originally from Baban Saural village in Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State, was identified as a key hitman for bandit leaders in Rijana Forest. He was responsible for multiple kidnappings, demanding large ransoms, and executing violent attacks on innocent civilians and security personnel.
During the operation, Mohammed attempted to escape, leaving behind an AK-49 rifle, two magazines, 60 rounds of live ammunition, and ₦3,000,000 in cash, suspected to be ransom money from previous kidnappings. Further investigations linked him to multiple high-profile abductions and killings over the past two years.
The police listed several incidents where he played a direct role. These included the kidnapping of two individuals in Kyauta Village, Chikun LGA, two years ago, where millions of naira were collected as ransom, and the victim, a security officer, was later killed. He was also involved in the abduction of a security officer’s wife at Kike Village a year ago, demanding a huge ransom. Additionally, he orchestrated the kidnapping of three people in Bagada Village five months ago, along with several other attacks across Kaduna State.
The police further noted that his gang was behind the January 5, 2025, attack on a security outpost at Kujama Market, Kaduna, where two security personnel were killed, and their weapons stolen. The gang, led by Mohammed and others, also kidnapped a tribal youth leader and several motorists along the Lokoja–Enugu highway.
On March 4, 2025, at around 11:14 pm, based on intelligence provided by the arrested suspect, police operatives launched a high-risk operation in Kwasau Forest, Kagarko LGA, Kaduna State, to dismantle his gang. However, upon arrival, the officers were ambushed by armed bandits attempting to rescue their leader.
A fierce gun battle ensued, forcing the criminals to retreat with severe gunshot wounds. During the exchange, Mohammed was fatally shot by his own gang members. He was taken to Kubwa General Hospital, where he was confirmed dead.
The operation successfully dislodged the gang’s hideout, and police recovered weapons and other evidence. One police inspector sustained minor injuries but has been treated and discharged.
