The Nigeria Police Force has announced a string of successful operations aimed at curbing insecurity across the country, including the arrest of suspected kidnappers, the rescue of kidnapped victims, and the recovery of illegal arms and ammunition.
In a statement issued by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police detailed coordinated efforts across Niger, Plateau, and Taraba States that led to the disruption of criminal networks and the safeguarding of lives.
In Niger State, suspected kidnappers had stormed Tungan-Boka and Masaha villages in Mashegu Local Government Area, abducting seven individuals. Police operatives, working with local security outfits, tracked the suspects to a forest near Tungan-Boka, where they engaged the criminals in a gun battle. The suspects were overpowered, and all seven victims were rescued unharmed.
In Plateau State, officers raided a criminal hideout along Bauchi Road in Jos North LGA. Although the suspects fled, an abandoned ash-colored Golf Wagon was recovered. A search of the vehicle revealed 500 rounds of 7.65mm ammunition. This is linked to an ongoing investigation into a May 3 homicide case, where an unidentified victim was killed. Investigators are continuing efforts to apprehend those responsible.
Further operations in Taraba State led to the arrest of two suspected kidnappers. Lookman Tanko was apprehended with one AK-47 rifle, one pump-action gun, and a long gun. Separately, detectives from the Force Intelligence Department – Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) arrested Peter Apai, 45, of Mubai District, Ardo Kola LGA. Seized from him were one AK-47 rifle, a pump-action shotgun, and an AK-47 magazine.
The suspects are currently in custody and will be prosecuted following the conclusion of investigations.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, commended the dedication and bravery of the operatives involved and reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to neutralizing criminal elements across the country. He urged citizens to support security efforts by providing timely and actionable intelligence to the police.
> “The Nigeria Police Force will not relent in its mission to dismantle criminal syndicates and safeguard communities. We call on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities,” said ACP Adejobi in the statement.