NPF arrests cop-killer, dismantles child-trafficking syndicate in nationwide crackdown
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has recorded significant achievements in its ongoing fight against crime with the arrest of a notorious cop-killer, the dismantling of a child-trafficking syndicate, and the recovery of illicit arms and ammunition. These milestones are part of the Force’s proactive, intelligence-driven strategies to enhance safety and security across the country.
On November 1, 2024, operatives of the Force Intelligence Bureau Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) arrested Ogaga Dickson, a 35-year-old member of a deadly armed robbery gang responsible for the death of CSP Hassan Jega, the Divisional Police Officer of Agbarho Division, Delta State.
CSP Jega was killed during a fierce gun battle on October 14, 2024, when his team foiled one of the gang’s robbery operations. Following an earlier raid on the gang’s hideout that neutralized four members, the police tracked and arrested Ogaga. Recovered from him were one AK-47 rifle, one English pistol, one locally-made pistol, various calibers of ammunition, and six exotic vehicles.
In another operation on December 2, 2024, police operatives busted a child-trafficking ring led by Pastor Dayo Bernard of the End Time Army Ministry, Bukuru, Plateau State. The operation rescued five children, aged between two and four, who had been abducted from homes in Jos, Plateau State.
Additional suspects, including Rita Agboeze, Victoria Ugwu, Nanman Puntel, and Peter Ukwuani, were also arrested. During interrogation, Pastor Bernard confessed to abducting and selling 13 children at varying prices. The police have since recovered all 13 children, who have been reunited with their families through the Plateau State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
In compliance with the Inspector-General of Police’s (IGP) directive to curb the circulation of illegal firearms, operatives of the FID-IRT successfully recovered 14 AK-47 rifles in separate operations.
These operations underscore the unwavering determination of the Nigeria Police Force to dismantle criminal networks, reduce organized crime, and enhance national security.
A statement from the NPF read: “These operations exemplify the unwavering resolve of the Nigeria Police Force and highlight the effectiveness of our efforts to combat crime and enhance national security.”
The NPF reassured Nigerians of its dedication to ensuring public safety and urged citizens to collaborate with law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information.
