Dr. Katch Ononuju, Director-General of the Heritage Centre, has said Nigerian security agencies already possess the technical means to trace kidnappers through their mobile phone activities if the available technology is properly used.
Speaking during an interview from 02:01 on SYMFONI TV, Ononuju explained that mobile devices leave digital records that can assist investigators in tracking criminal suspects after ransom calls are made.
He argued that kidnappers often believe using newly registered SIM cards protects them from detection, but said the devices used for those calls can still be traced.
According to Ononuju, “When Kidnappers Start Calling You With Phone, They Will Call You With A SIM That They Think Is Just Fresh. But That SIM Is Inserted Into A Phone That Has An IMEI Number.”
He explained that the IMEI number remains attached to the phone regardless of the SIM card inserted into it, making it possible for investigators to identify the device used in making the calls.
Ononuju said investigators can also examine other telephone numbers that have communicated with the same device, allowing security agencies to build a network of contacts linked to the suspects.
He maintained that questioning people connected to those phone records can provide useful information that helps investigators identify and locate those responsible for kidnappings.
Continuing his explanation, Ononuju said, “The Best Way To Always Do This Is Once You Have Those Calls You Start To Interrogate What Other Numbers On Any Network That Same Phone May Have Called… It’s Always Easy Every Time For Police To Find The People.”
He argued that consistent use of such investigative methods would strengthen efforts to combat kidnapping and improve the effectiveness of law enforcement operations.
Ononuju made the remarks while discussing the recent rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State, using the incident to explain how technology can support criminal investigations….See More