Police Parades Notorious Kidnaper, Arrest 1,245 Suspects, While 3,172 Various Ammunition Recovered in one month

From Aviashima Toom, Abuja 

The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun in order to ensure perpetrator of heinous crimes of various degrees are swept away from disrupting the peace of the country, has again recorded a milestone achievement in the fight against crime.

Briefing journalists  on Thursday in Abuja, Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi disclosed that, Since October 1st 2024, the Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant achievements in the fight against crime.

Adejobi noted that, the tremendous efforts of the Force under the guidance of the IGP serves as a beacon of hope in the fight against criminal elements, showcasing remarkable progress in advancing the primary objective of ensuring peace and security for all citizens. Embracing a multifaceted approach to law enforcement, the Nigeria Police Force has made significant advancements in curbing criminal behavior and fostering a safer environment for the populace. 

According to him, with each stride taken towards the drastic reduction in crime, the Nigeria Police solidifies its position as a pillar of strength within the community, inspiring confidence and trust among the citizenry.

He revealed that, since October 1st 2024, the Nigeria Police Force  recorded significant achievements in the fight against crime. "These include the arrest of 371 armed robbery suspects, 186 kidnapping suspects, 242 Murder/homicide suspects, 63 suspects connected with the unlawful possession of prohibited firearms, 217 rape suspects, 167 suspected cultists and recovery of 210 various firearms, 3172 ammunition of various calibres. The Police was also able to recover 118 stolen vehicles and rescue 64 victims of kidnapping across the country.

"Turning to recent crime-fighting achievements, today, we will be giving a comprehensive briefing on several significant Police operations conducted by the operatives of Nigeria Police Force that has led to the arrest of dangerous criminals involved in various heinous crimes and recoveries of several arms and ammunition as well as other items across the country.

 

"DELTA STATE COMMAND

The Delta State Police Command has also made significant breakthroughs in its operation involving the CP Special Assignment Team (SAT), which has led to the arrest of 52 suspects including; 34 suspected kidnappers, 12  suspected cultists, 2 suspected fraudsters and 4 suspected gunrunners. The operatives have also made the recovery of 7 AK-47 rifles, 1 AK-49 rifle, 1 G3 rifle, 6 pump action rifle, 9 LMG rifles, 16 Baretta Pistols, 35 live cartridges and 53 live ammunition, recovered the ransom of N5.5m and rescued 3 kidnapped victims during the time under review.

"FCT COMMAND

Acting on credible intelligence, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the FCT Police Command on 1st October 2024, trailed and arrested four notorious kidnappers who have been terrorizing the Federal Capital Territory namely: YAU SANI, a.k.a. Baba (an ex-convict), NUHU, a.k.a. Giwa, KABIRU MOHAMMED, and YUSUF HASSAN, at their criminal hideout in Sauka, Abuja. The suspects confessed to being responsible for series of kidnappings within the FCT and its environs, and the killing of seven (7) victims in the process. These gang have launched attacks in Dakwa, Dawaki, Aco estate, Dupe Village Zuma rock, Kuchiko village and some villages in Niger and Kaduna. They also led Police operatives to another hideout in Gauraka Forest, Suleja, Niger State, where they dug out four (4) AK-47 rifles, thirteen (13) AK-47 magazines, and one hundred and sixty-two (162) rounds of 7.6 mm live ammunition.

"KATSINA STATE COMMAND

On October 7th, 2024, beginning around 11 AM, the command received numerous reports regarding multiple kidnappings. Armed bandits, estimated to number four (4), intercepted two (2) women on the outskirts of Matarau village in the Danmusa Local Government Area in an attempt to abduct them. At approximately 10:30 AM, another set of armed individuals, equipped with lethal weapons, obstructed the Marabar Bangori-Unguwar Boka route along the Funtua-Gusau road, resulting in the kidnapping of four (4) individuals. Furthermore, at around 2:30 PM, suspected armed bandits blocked the Unguwar Kafa junction on the Yankara-Faskari road, abducting two (2) women along with their children. Upon receipt of the reports, operatives were instantly dispatched to the scene, where they engaged the assailants in a gun duel and successfully rescued all the kidnapped victims unhurt as the assailants fled the scene with various degrees of bullet injuries.

"On October 19th, 2024, at about 11:35 PM, a distress call was received at the Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters on a bandits' attack on Unguwar Batsaka, quarters in Jibia Township. The DPO Jibia mobilised a team of operatives in collaboration with the military, members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps (KSCWC), and vigilantes to the scene, where they engaged the bandits in a fierce gun duel that lasted about an hour, forcing the bandits to flee the scene. 

"The team successfully rescued six (6) kidnapped victims who were immediately rushed to the hospital for medical attention due to injuries sustained as a result of the bandits attack Regrettably, one of the victims identified as Rabe Mai Shayi gave up the ghost while receiving medical attention due to the level of injuries sustained in the process of the bandit attack. Efforts are being intensified to ensure these criminals are apprehended.

"YOBE STATE COMMAND

On October 20, 2024, at about 1830 hours, operatives of the Yobe State Command attached to 'A' Divisional Police Headquarters, Damaturu, received credible intelligence regarding a suspected gunrunner en route to Damaturu from Bunu Yadi. Swift and decisive action of the officers led to the interception of a Golf 3 saloon car, and a thoroughly conducted search revealed 350 rounds of live 7.62x39 MM ammunition concealed in the suspect's luggage. The suspect identified as Hamsatu Modu is currently undergoing interrogation as to the source of the ammunition and would subsequently be prosecuted in accordance with the law upon conclusion of investigation.

"ENUGU STATE COMMAND

On October 17, 2024, at about 1800hrs, joint operatives of the Enugu State Police Command tactical squads, raided a kidnappers' hideout in Nokpa-Nike, Enugu East Local Government Area. Upon the operatives' arrival, the kidnappers opened fire, prompting a return of fire. This fierce gun duel led to the death of two(2) of the kidnappers and the police operatives successfully rescued one kidnapped victim and also recovered one G-3 rifle, two AK-47 rifles, three magazines, and one hundred twenty-five rounds of live ammunition. Manhunt has been launched to ensure all other gang members are apprehended in quick time and made to face the consequences.

"

Also, following the tragic and unwarranted shooting and killing of Enugu-based Ogene musician, one Chikezie Okezie Nwamba "m" (a.k.a. Igbo-Jah), by one Inspector Ozonwanji Joseph attached to the Command’s Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad, the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu ordered the immediate arrest of the Inspector and directed a full scale investigation be launched to unravel the misery behind the incident.  

"The investigation has been concluded and the said Inspector upon conclusion of orderly room trial in accordance with the Nigeria Police Force’s disciplinary procedures was found culpable and awarded the punishment of dismissal from the Force, and has been charged before the court of law accordingly.

"The Inspector-General of Police, on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force sympathizes with the Government and good people of Enugu State, most especially the family and friends of the deceased, and assures them no stone will be left untouched as regards the unfortunate incident.

"BORNO STATE COMMAND

On the 25th of October 2024, the Command Crack Squad coordinated a covert operation in Chingowa Village, Konduga LGA, Borno State, which led to the arrest of six (6) suspected kidnappers identified as Modu Bindimi, Koso Modu Gana, Kassim Bulama, Isah Muhammed, Zarami Fantami and Modu Bunu. The suspects were found in possession of One pump action rifle, one live cartridge and other dangerous weapons, with the cash sum of N2,637,000. 

"Upon interrogation, the suspects confessed to responsible for several armed robberies and kidnapping incidents in Magumeri and Konduga LGAs, as well as forceful extortion as tax from the villagers to spare them from their criminal operations. Investigation is still ongoing, and the suspects would be charged to court at its completion. 

"NIGER STATE COMMAND

On 09/10/2024 at about 12:25 AM, report was received at Mokwa Division that a victim was abducted by suspected kidnappers at Takuma village, Mokwa area, and one other was shot on the hand, but taken to hospital for treatment. On the receipt of this, combined team of Police/vigilante members of the Division mobilized and trailed the suspected kidnappers to Kpakiko forest where the Police-led team engaged the hoodlums in a gun duel. 

"Three suspected kidnappers were neutralized in the process, and one AK-47 rifle with three live ammunition was recovered. The victim was rescued, and investigation into the kidnapping incident is in progress, as effort is on top gear to arrest the fleeing members of the gang.

Similarly, on 28/10/2024 at about 5 AM, the command received a distress call that, at about 02:30 AM of same date, some suspected armed robbers were attacking residences around Toll-gate area of Boyi, Gurara LGA and robbed occupants of their valuables. 

"On receipt of this, Police tactical team stationed at Boyi outstation attached to Gawu-Babangida Division mobilised to the scene. The team engaged the robbers in a fierce gun battle. Consequently, one of the hoodlums was neutralized, one Ak-47 rifle, one automatic pump action rifle and some of the valuables robbed were recovered. Efforts are in gear to apprehend the fleeing members of the gang. 

Today, right here on the premises of the FID-IRT, we have a total number of  criminal suspects, apprehended for several horrific crimes, and are ready to give voluntary confessions about their criminal escapades leading to their arrests. Also displayed at today’s press briefing are the following items connected to their committed crimes: -

The First among these cases we would be bringing before you is the case of…

"ILLEGAL DEALING IN FIREARMS 

SUSPECTS: 

1. HARUNA MUKAILU ‘m’ 25 YRS

2. IBRAHIM BELLO ‘m” 20 YRS

EXHIBITS: 1 AK-47 RIFLE, 30 ROUNDS OF 7.62MM LIVE AMMUNITION 

CASE DESCRIPTION: Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the FID-IRT proceeded to chinge, lafia nassarawa state at about 10 PM on 2nd October 2024. The first suspect, Haruna mukailu was arrested and a conducted search led to the discovery of an Ak47 at his house. Upon interrogation, he confessed to have bought the rifle from an unidentified gunrunner and sold to Bello, his friend at the rate of 1.2 million naira. Haruna led to the arrest of Ibrahim Bello who confessed to sourcing the rifle for one Awwal based in Iqra village just after Kaduna. Investigation is ongoing to apprehend other parties involved.

"CASE OF CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY AND KIDNAPPPING

SUSPECTS: 

1. AHMADU ABDULMUMNI

2. GARBA ISA

3. TOGAI GAPTAS

EXHIBITS: DIGGER

CASE DESCRIPTION: The operatives of the  it was reported that suspects gathered at the Chelsea Hotel in Yelwa, Chendam LGA, Plateau State. Locals alerted the IRT operatives, who quickly intervened and apprehended the suspects. During the investigation, it was revealed that Gaptas, a local from Chinge, identified potential targets among the villagers for the gang. The suspects operated with two AK-47 rifles, which remain with their leader, who is currently at large. They disclosed that the ransoms collected per victim ranged from 500,000 naira to 7 million naira. Ahmadu Abdulmunmi admitted to using his share of the ransom to buy fertilizer for his farm, while Garba Isa confessed to being part of another kidnapping syndicate in Birkin Lada. The suspects also confessed to kidnapping in various locations, including Gidan Adamu, Darlit Village, Yelwa Village, and Chendam Town, all within Chendam LGA.

"ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF PROHIBITED FIRE ARMS.

SUSPECTS: 

YAHAYA ILIYA “m”

EXHIBITS: 178 ROUNDS OF 7.62MM SPECIAL AMMUNITION

CASE DESCRIPTION: On October 28, 2024, operatives of the IRT intercepted a suspect in Kugbo, AYA Area, Abuja, based on credible intelligence from the DIA. The suspect confessed that he was on his way to deliver a consignment of ammunition to a notorious bandit named Yahaya, who operates in Nasarawa, Jos, and Katsina States. He explained that the consignment had been left by the roadside for him to pick up and transport to Yahaya. The suspect reported that he was paid 70,000 naira for the delivery and was to receive the balance upon completion of the job. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend Yahaya.

"ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF ARMS AND AMMUNITION

SUSPECTS: 

JUBRIL MUSA “M” 56 YRS

EXHIBITS: 

2 ROUNDS OF  7.62MM LIVE AMMUNITION(LONG)

1 MAKAROV PISTOL WITH BREACH NUMBER AD 41-1130

1 FABRICATED BRONNY PISTOL

1 ROUND OF 7.8MM LIVE AMMUNITIONS

2 ROUNDS OF G3 LIVE AMMUNITIONS

4 ROUNDS OF 7.6MM LIVE AMMUNITIONS (SHORT)

1 ROUND OF 9MM LIVE AMMUNITION

CASE DESCRIPTION:  On September 30, 2024, at approximately 0500 hours, IRT operatives, acting on credible intelligence from the DIA, arrested a suspect, a native of Mabo Village in Wase LGA, Plateau State, at his residence. During the search, they discovered several exhibits related to his activities. The suspect confessed to being an arms supplier for notorious kidnappers and bandits in Plateau State. He also indicated that the arms found in his house belonged to his friend Marafa, who is currently evading arrest. Other members of his gun-running ring are under intense surveillance.

"ARREST OF WANTED NOTORIOUS ARMED ROBBERY/KIDNAPPING KINGPIN:

SUSPECT: Ibrahim Shehu ‘M’ 30yrs

EXHIBITS RECOVERED: NIL

CASE DESCRIPTION:  On 29 September 2024, operatives from the DFI-IRT, in conjunction with personnel from the military, NPF-DFI-IRT, DSS, and local vigilantes, conducted a special clearance operation in Ankomi Village along the Kaba Agbede Highway in Kogi State. 

"During this operation, the team successfully arrested Ibrahim Shehu, a 30-year-old male from Odepei Village, Kogi State, who is a wanted notorious kingpin involved in armed robbery and kidnapping. Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to participating in multiple armed robbery, kidnapping, and cattle rustling incidents across Kano, Katsina, Niger, and Kaduna states. He disclosed that he and his fleeing gang members had collected significant amounts of ransom from their victims. He revealed that his gang was armed with four AK-47 rifles, which were primarily used for their kidnapping and armed robbery operations. He also identified some of his gang members including the gang’s leader who are currently under surveillance to be apprehended. Investigation is in high gear to track and arrest the other fleeing gang members.

"CASE OF ARMED ROBBERY, HOUSE BREAKING AND UNLAWFUL POSSESION OF FIREARMS

SUSPECTS: 

Umar Shaibu aka (sarki) age 23 yrs ‘m' of uk durumi area FCT Abuja.

 Abubakar Adamu age 20yrs of durumi Opposite market road FCT Abuja.

 Yusuf Yakubu ‘m’ age 24yrs of durumi Of FCT Abuja.

Muhammad Umar age 22yrs of durumi FCT Abuja

EXHIBITS: 

Two combat knifes, one iron bar, one cutlass, one car jack, atn staffs identification card

CASE DESCRIPTION: Based on credible intelligence received by operatives of the IGP-IRT operatives led to the arrest of the notorious gang of armed robber who engaged in armed robbery, house breaking and stealing who are known for disturbing the FCT. 

"The said suspects arrested in deferent location of the FCT Abuja, based on credible intelligence revealed that these suspects were operating with different dangerous weapons such as English pistol, car jack, combat knife, and other incriminating weapons, they also confessed to have used the affirmatives arms to terrorize innocent motorist in during traffic, residents and vulnerable passersby within the FCT.

"CASE OF KIDNAPPING, ARMED ROBBERY, TERRORISM AND CATTLE RUSTLLING

SUSPECTS:

Abdullahi Mohammed 'm' 60yrs

Mohammadu Sani 'm' 36yrs

EXHIBITS: ak47 rifle, five rounds of live ammunitions, and fifteen empty shells.

CASE DESCRIPTION: At about 2200hrs on 28/10/2024 operatives of the IRT arrested one Abdullahi Mohammed 'm' 60yrs and one Mohammadu Sani 'm' 36yrs both of Kachia local government area of Kaduna state.  They are notorious kidnappers and have also engaged in armed robbery, terrorism, cattle rustling and they have been operating in Kaduna state. 

"The both of them confessed to these crime and that they have led the operatives of the IRT to their residence and recovered one ak47 rifle, five rounds of live ammunitions, and fifteen empty shells". He stressed 

He explained that the operations exemplify the unflinching dedication and commitment of the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun Ph.D, NPM to ensure perpetrator of heinous crimes of various degrees are swept away from disrupting the peace of our dear country. The Nigeria Police Force will continue to build on this progress, addressing security concerns across our nation, and establishing a safe haven for the good citizens of our dear nation.

" We will continue to enhance the safety and security of the country, implementing various tactical operations, intelligence-led policing, and community engagement strategies. The goal of these initiatives is to establish a substantial decrease in crime rates across the country and the record of significant strides in combating several times of violent crimes such as banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, and cybercrime.

In reaction to the growing concerns regarding the spread of fake news, recycling of old videos in efforts to malign the police authority, the Inspector-General of Police remains firm and committed to personnel welfare and underscores his unwavering commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all officers of the Force, emphasizing the paramount importance of their safety, security, and overall welfare within the organization.

"We must take a moment to address the critical issue of misinformation and its detrimental effects on the credibility and operations of the Nigeria Police Force. The recent article by Eons Intelligence about an alleged funding scandal within the NPF has raised significant concerns. This negative portrayal aims not only to tarnish the reputation of the police but also to erode the vital trust that exists between the Force and the communities they serve. 

"We urge reporters to ensure proper verification of information before posting, as the Force is well committed to protecting its image and will not tolerate any attempt aimed at soiling its reputation as a respected institution or any form of slander against its officers who toil day and night to secure our Nation.

"The claims made in that article are not only misleading but also unfounded. Spreading such falsehoods serves no purpose other than to create unnecessary doubts, distrust, and confusion within the public sphere. 

"Moreover, I would like to address another issue that has recently resurfaced in the form of a video circulating on social media concerning alleged maltreatment of recruits on training at various training colleges across the country. I must emphasize that this video is old and has previously been acted upon. 

"The Nigeria Police Force is committed to the welfare of all its personnel and has implemented measures to ensure a supportive training environment for recruits. By revisiting and circulating outdated material, we risk distorting the public's perception and disregarding the progress that has been made.

"We urge everyone to think critically about the information they consume and share, as well as reporters to consider the impact their words and information can have on real lives and the important work being done every day by the men of the Nigeria Police Force, as the Force remains dedicated to transparency, and accountability". He stated