The Niger State Police Command has recorded major successes in its recent operations against crime, leading to the arrest of twelve suspects for various criminal offences including armed robbery, car snatching, and kidnapping. Seven kidnapped victims were also rescued in a daring operation
In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP W.A. Abiodun, on May 6, 2025, the Command disclosed that three suspects were apprehended on May 4 at about 12:30 a.m. by operatives attached to Tafa Division. The suspects Umar Mukhtar, 25, and Shuaibu Ahmed, 30, both of Okada Road, Minna, and Mohammed Ibrahim Abba, 25, of Tafa, Kaduna State were caught at Dikko junction with a stolen white Toyota Camry.
During interrogation, Umar confessed that one Mustapha, currently at large, led them to a robbery operation at Bosso Estate, Minna, using a toy gun and screwdrivers. The victim’s wife arrived during the incident, and her vehicle, with registration number KNT 785 SN, was forcefully taken. Preliminary investigations revealed the suspects intended to transport the stolen vehicle to Kaduna for disposal.
In a separate case, two suspects were arrested for stealing a tricycle. On May 3, operatives attached to Maje Division nabbed Abdulaziz Salisu, 19, of Madalla, Suleja, and Abubakar Mohammed of Chachi village, Sabon-Wuse. Abdulaziz reportedly stole a tricycle during early morning prayers at a mosque in Dakwa and was intercepted by officers during a stop-and-search operation.
Also, on May 1, police operatives arrested seven armed robbery suspects in Suleja. Following a robbery at APC Quarters, one Mubarak Mohammed, 16, was arrested and led authorities to his accomplices. The gang leader, Ibrahim Mohammed, 20, and five others were later apprehended. Recovered items included 14 mobile phones, four bags, six cutlasses, charms, and other weapons.
In a separate operation on May 3, the police rescued seven kidnapped victims in Mashegu LGA. According to the statement, suspected kidnappers had invaded Tungan-Boka and Masaha villages and abducted seven individuals. Unfortunately, one Garba Mohammed was shot dead during the attack. Prompt action by police and vigilante members led to a gun battle in the forest, resulting in the successful rescue of all victims unhurt.
SP Abiodun assured that investigations are ongoing, and efforts are being intensified to apprehend fleeing suspects and bring all culprits to justice.