Jane Salihu
Police Crack Kidnap, Cult and Armed Robbery Networks Across States, Rescue Teenager in Nationwide Security Sweep
The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a series of major operational successes across several states, including the rescue of a kidnapped teenager, the arrest of suspected kidnappers, cultists, armed robbers and rape suspects, as well as the recovery of firearms and other dangerous weapons.
According to a statement highlighting the Force’s operational achievements over the last 24 hours under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, the operations were carried out by tactical units and state commands as part of ongoing efforts to combat violent crime and strengthen internal security nationwide.
In Katsina State, operatives of the Police’s Victims and Crime Response Unit (VCRU) engaged suspected armed bandits in a prolonged gun duel along the Funtua-Dandume Local Government Area boundary, successfully rescuing 16-year-old Hafiza Rabiu, who had earlier been abducted from Babbangida village in Danja LGA. The bandits reportedly fled with gunshot wounds, while security operatives have continued bush-combing operations to recover rustled livestock.
In Delta State, police arrested additional suspects linked to cult-related violence and regional kidnapping activities following intelligence obtained from earlier arrests. The Force said the suspects are assisting investigators with useful information.
Police operatives in Osun State also arrested five suspected cultists after responding to reports of sporadic gunfire in the Jatta area. Recovered from the suspects were an unregistered Toyota Sienna bus, a single-barrel gun, live cartridges, a cutlass, a knife and suspected charms.
In Rivers State, police dismantled a suspected kidnapping syndicate following a coordinated investigation into the abduction of a female trader, Jane Ikechukwu. The victim, who regained her freedom after ransom negotiations, was rescued and taken to hospital, while five suspects were arrested during follow-up operations.
Similarly, operatives in Ondo State arrested three suspected armed robbers allegedly terrorising commuters along the Lagos-Ondo corridor. Recovered during the operation were an AK-47 rifle loaded with ammunition, an automatic Beretta pistol, a Mercedes-Benz ML350 vehicle, a battle axe and other items believed to have been used in criminal activities.
The Police also recorded significant breakthroughs in Benue, Imo, Akwa Ibom and Taraba states, where suspected offenders were arrested and several firearms, ammunition and dangerous weapons recovered in separate intelligence-led operations.
In Oyo State, two suspects were arrested over the alleged rape of a 16-year-old girl after reportedly luring her with money. The victim was taken to the Police Medical Hospital, Agodi, where medical examination confirmed penetration, while the suspects are expected to face prosecution.
The Police said investigations into the various cases are ongoing, with several suspects expected to be arraigned upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations aimed at protecting lives and property, while urging members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance crime-fighting efforts nationwide.
