The Nigeria Police Force has recorded major operational successes across eight states, with the arrest of suspected gun-runners, armed robbers and other criminal suspects, while an alleged terrorist kingpin was neutralised and several firearms and ammunition recovered.
The operations, conducted between August 20 and 21, 2026, also led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, pistols, locally fabricated firearms, live ammunition and other exhibits, according to the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu.
In Imo State, police operatives acting on intelligence engaged suspected armed hoodlums allegedly planning to attack Agwa Police Station. A suspected kingpin was neutralised during the encounter, while two AK-47 rifles, four empty magazines and a Highlander SUV were recovered. Police said joint tactical operations were continuing to track fleeing members of the gang.
Jigawa State recorded the recovery of a severed human head following the discovery of a decomposing body at Shanya Babba Village, Maigatari Local Government Area. Police said the head was recovered during a search of the surrounding area, while efforts were underway to identify the victim and apprehend the perpetrators.
In Gombe, one suspect was arrested following a stabbing incident at Dinchi Village, Dukku LGA, while police continued efforts to apprehend a fleeing accomplice.
In Bayelsa, one suspected armed robber was fatally wounded during a police response to a robbery at Bozi Water Two, Yenagoa. The suspect was evacuated to the Police Clinic, where he was confirmed dead.
Meanwhile, detectives in Nasarawa re-arrested an escaped kidnapping suspect from Kano State after tracing him to Lafia. Police said the suspect resisted arrest before being overpowered.
Kano State recorded the arrest of four suspected gun-runners following further investigation into unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. Two pistols loaded with 17 rounds of live ammunition were recovered from two of the suspects.
In Ebonyi State, five suspects arrested by community members at Amudo Community, Ezza South LGA, were handed over to police operatives, with a locally made firearm recovered. Another two suspects were separately arrested at Ndiechi Onuebonyi, Izzi LGA, after allegedly brandishing firearms and threatening residents. A locally made firearm was recovered from their premises.
Delta State police also arrested two suspects in separate operations in Agbor, Ika South LGA. A female suspect was arrested in connection with alleged gun-running activities, with 10 live cartridges recovered from her hideout. In a separate sting operation, a 45-year-old man was arrested and a locally fabricated single-barrelled gun recovered from a shrine.
In Oyo State, two suspected armed robbers were arrested following a distress call over a robbery along Ido Road, Ibadan. Police said the suspects were linked to the theft of an iPhone 17 and gold earrings.
The Imo State Command also successfully provided security coverage for the movement of a high-profile VIP through the state, escorting the entourage safely to the Imo/Abia boundary without incident.
The Force said investigations into the various cases are ongoing at the respective State Criminal Investigation Departments, while tactical teams continue efforts to apprehend fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons and exhibits.
The police urged members of the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies as part of efforts to combat crime and protect lives and property.
