Officers of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have arrested a 40-year-old man, Yahaya Saleh, for allegedly attempting to bribe police investigators with ₦1.5 million in a bid to derail an ongoing kidnap investigation.

The suspect reportedly approached officers from the Command’s Scorpion Squad, who are handling a case involving a suspected kidnapping syndicate operating within Abuja and surrounding areas.

According to the police, Saleh offered the cash inducement in exchange for the unlawful release of one of the suspects currently under investigation.

Rather than accept the bribe, the officers documented the attempt and immediately arrested Saleh. The development was confirmed in a press statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh.

“In a clear demonstration of professionalism and integrity, the officers rejected the offer and followed due legal procedures, which led to the suspect’s arrest,” the statement read.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao S. Adewale, praised the officers for upholding ethical standards, describing their actions as a reaffirmation of the Command’s commitment to justice and accountability.

“The FCT Police Command remains unwavering in its resolve to root out corruption and ensure the integrity of ongoing investigations is not compromised,” Adewale stated.

The Command also said that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals linked to the kidnapping ring.

The arrest is in line with the renewed efforts by law enforcement to not only clamp down on violent crime in the capital but also curb attempts to prevent justice through bribery and undue influence.