The Nigeria Police Force has disclosed the successful apprehension of 254 individuals involved in various criminal activities, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and cultism, over the past two week. This was made known by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, during a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday.
According to ACP Adejobi, the law enforcement agency achieved notable milestones across the country, resulting in the arrest of 92 armed robbers, 153 kidnappers, and nine suspected cultists. Additionally, the police successfully rescued 35 kidnap victims, recovered seven stolen vehicles, and seized 44 arms along with 477 rounds of ammunition of diverse calibers.
During the parade of the suspects, ACP Adejobi presented a group of 32 individuals who were arrested in possession of seven AK-47 rifles, nine automatic pistols, 1,804 rounds of live ammunition, a Point of Sale (PoS) machine, assorted illicit drugs, and one Mazda Saloon car.
The Force PRO expressed confidence that the collective efforts of police personnel in combating crime would contribute to a more secure and peaceful Nigeria in the near future.
Providing details on some of the cases, ACP Adejobi highlighted an operation on February 9, 2024, targeting a syndicate of transborder gunrunners operating in Plateau State. The operation resulted in the arrest of key suspects, including Mahos Jatau Mancha, also known as Adis, Justin Abugieye, Joseph Zingkur Ayuba, Davou Chuwang, and Yakubu Benedict Bonat. The investigation revealed that Justin Abugieye served as a transborder arms and ammunition supplier based in Obudu LGA of Cross River State, facilitating the distribution of weapons to criminal elements across borders.
In another operation on February 12, 2024, police operatives received intelligence about individuals engaged in arms dealing and kidnapping in Suntai, Bali LGA of Taraba State. Two suspects, Modo Haruna and Buba Ruwa, were apprehended, with revelations about their involvement in gun running and cattle rustling.
The Nigeria Police Force continues to intensify efforts to combat criminal activities, ensuring the safety and security of citizens across the nation.
