Nigeria Police Strike Big: 134 Firearms Seized, 302 Kidnap Victims Rescued

Nigeria Police Strike Big: 134 Firearms Seized, 302 Kidnap Victims Rescued
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has made significant progress in its fight against crime, dismantling several criminal syndicates across the country. In an impressive crackdown, the force recovered 134 firearms and 1,012 rounds of ammunition, rescued 302 kidnapped victims, and arrested hundreds of suspects involved in various crimes.
At a press briefing held on January 22, 2024, at the Force Intelligence Bureau–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) headquarters, police operatives highlighted their recent achievements. These operations underscore the Force’s renewed commitment to safeguarding lives and property under the leadership of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM.
Breaking Down the Numbers
In the past months, the police recorded the following arrests and recoveries:
- 179 armed robbery suspects
- 100 kidnapping suspects
- 152 murder/homicide suspects
- 34 suspects for illegal possession of firearms
- 77 rape suspects
- 110 suspected cultists
- 73 various firearms and 310 rounds of ammunition recovered
- 56 stolen vehicles recovered
- 22 kidnapped victims rescued
These achievements reflect the Force’s improved strategies in tackling various forms of crime and criminality nationwide.
High-Profile Arrests
Among the notable arrests was a criminal gang led by Muhammed Kabir, aged 36, who, along with his accomplices Donald Okpere and Haruna Ibrahim, impersonated military personnel to defraud victims of millions of naira. The gang used fake alerts to scam individuals after purchasing gadgets and medical equipment.
In another operation, the police apprehended a notorious group involved in motorcycle theft across Lagos and Ogun States. The gang members, identified as Sunday Okwo Ade, Monday Solomon, David Emmanuel, and Shakiru Badmus, targeted farmers in rural communities. Police operatives recovered 15 stolen motorcycles during the raid.
IGP Egbetokun’s Assurance
Inspector-General Egbetokun reaffirmed the Force’s dedication to protecting citizens and ensuring criminals face justice. “The core principle of policing is the safeguarding of lives and property,” he stated. “We remain steadfast in our pursuit of criminal elements to create a safe and peaceful environment for all Nigerians.”
He also emphasized the importance of collaboration with communities in achieving these successes, encouraging citizens to report suspicious activities to the police promptly.
Strategic Policing in Action
The latest achievements showcase the NPF’s strategic focus on intelligence-led operations. By identifying and dismantling criminal networks, the force has demonstrated its resolve to combat crime effectively. The recovery of stolen vehicles, firearms, and ammunition further underscores the operatives’ vigilance and tactical expertise.
Combating Kidnapping
One of the most heartening outcomes of the recent operations is the rescue of 302 kidnapped victims. These individuals, who were held in various locations across the country, have now been reunited with their families.
Kidnapping has remained a significant security challenge in Nigeria, but the recent breakthroughs show the police’s determination to tackle the menace head-on.
Building Public Trust
As the Nigeria Police Force intensifies its efforts to fight crime, the IGP emphasized the need to rebuild public trust. By demonstrating transparency, accountability, and results-driven strategies, the Force aims to strengthen its relationship with the public.
0 comment