The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has achieved notable success in its ongoing efforts to combat crime and restore order to troubled regions. Enhanced tactical deployments and collaborative initiatives have led to the arrest of seventy-two (72) criminal suspects, including thirty-four (34) involved in kidnapping, within the last two weeks. The Intelligence Response Squad (IRT) and Special Tactical Squad (STS) played pivotal roles in these accomplishments.
During this period, a total of twenty-two (22) kidnap victims were successfully rescued, bringing hope and relief to communities affected by criminal activities. The strategic efforts of the NPF Tactical Squads have also resulted in the seizure of illicit military equipment, further contributing to the enhancement of public safety and security.
One significant arrest occurred in Edo State, where operatives from FID-IRT apprehended Edosa Obasuyi, Abumere Endurance, Monday Otubu, and Esther Abumere in the Ekpoma area. The suspects, affiliated with the Eiye confraternity, confessed to their involvement in killings and cult activities in the region. The operation led to the recovery of two (2) pump-action guns, live cartridges, voter cards, charms, illicit drugs, and cell phones.
In another operation on January 27, 2024, IRT operatives arrested Bello Umar, a 28-year-old Fulani man from Tsafe LGA, Zamfara State, suspected of being a kidnapper. Umar and his gang, operating along the Abuja-Kaduna State expressway, were found responsible for numerous kidnappings. The arrest led to the recovery of ₦2.2 million, Umar’s share from a recent ransom collection.
In Niger State, police operatives swiftly acted on a threat received by the inhabitants of Kwarra Village. Lawal Mohammed, the perpetrator, was arrested for demanding ₦4 million and threatening an attack if not paid. Investigation revealed that Mohammed had previously escaped police custody. He confessed to giving out his uncle’s contact, who was the village head, to the kidnappers for extortion.
Furthermore, FID-STS intercepted the movement of military accoutrements from Kaduna to Zamfara state. The recovered items included military uniforms, camel packs, hats, cardigans, t-shirts, belts, and anklets. Two suspects, Mushiri Abubakar and Ahmed Mohammed, were arrested. Abubakar disclosed his association with an Airforce personnel and involvement in selling military accoutrements to criminal elements.
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, commended the dedication of the Nigeria Police Force in ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians. He affirmed that public safety remains a top priority, and the recent achievements demonstrate the commitment of the Force to combat crime and restore peace to troubled regions.