Police arrest 254 suspects, rescue 35 victims, recover 44 arms in major operations
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has achieved significant milestones over the past two weeks, leading to the arrest of 254 suspects, the rescue of 35 kidnapped victims, and the recovery of 44 arms and 477 rounds of ammunition.
The NPF’s targeted efforts resulted in the capture of 92 armed robbers, 153 kidnappers, and 9 suspected cultists. Among the successes is a breakthrough operation by the FID-IRT (Force Intelligence Department – Inspector-General of Police Response Team) in Plateau state, where ten suspects, including a transborder arms and ammunition supplier, were apprehended.
This syndicate was found to be supplying AK47 rifles, ammunition, and even rocket launchers to rebels and criminal elements in neighboring countries. A clandestine factory in Kuru, Jos, Plateau state, was also uncovered, leading to the recovery of 2 AK-47 rifles, 9 automatic pistols, and 1,800 rounds of live ammunition.
Another notable case involved the FID-IRT operatives in Taraba State, who arrested two individuals suspected of arms dealing and kidnapping in Sutai, Bali LGA.
Investigations revealed a previous possession of 12 AK-47 rifles by one suspect, intercepted by the police during a prior operation. The other suspect confessed to being part of a syndicate specializing in gun running and cattle rustling.
In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Special Intervention Squad successfully arrested a suspect from Audi village, exposing a gang of over 20 kidnappers. The apprehended suspect admitted to participating in two kidnapping operations, where victims were held captive for 21 days, and a ransom of 1.1 million was collected. He disclosed owning an AK-47 rifle, shedding light on the ruthless activities of his gang, including the killing of Ardo Shaibu and his family in Kaduna State.
These operations and others unmentioned underscore the dedication and effectiveness of the Nigeria Police Force in combating crime and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun Ph.D, NPM, reassures the public that the NPF remains steadfast in its duties, implementing necessary measures and strategies to create a safer environment for every resident of the country.
ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI,
FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
FORCE HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA
6th March, 2024
