The Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant operational successes across 12 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) within the last 24 hours, leading to the rescue of a kidnapped victim, the arrest of armed robbery, cultism, cattle rustling and human trafficking suspects, as well as the recovery of firearms, stolen property and vehicles.
The Force said the operations, carried out by police operatives in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilantes, underscore its sustained commitment to tackling crime and ensuring public safety nationwide.
In Anambra State, police operatives recovered an abandoned Toyota Hiace bus concealed in a bush after receiving information from local vigilantes. Joint security teams have since launched bush-combing operations to locate any possible abducted passengers or identify the owners of the vehicle.
In Benue State, police rescued two victims who sustained gunshot injuries during a suspected cattle rustling attack and rushed them to hospital for treatment. One suspect was arrested based on credible intelligence, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing suspects and recover the stolen cattle.
Ekiti State recorded multiple breakthroughs. Police foiled an armed robbery operation following a distress call, neutralising one suspect during a gun duel before taking him into custody for treatment. The operation led to the recovery of stolen valuables worth over ₦3.6 million and a locally made firearm. In a separate operation, three suspected cattle rustlers were arrested, while two stolen cows were recovered. One suspect remains at large.
In Ebonyi State, vigilantes disarmed an armed suspect and recovered a pump-action gun, one live cartridge and handcuffs, while police intensified efforts to arrest other fleeing suspects. In another development, three suspects linked to a murder case were arrested, with investigations continuing to apprehend additional accomplices.
Joint security operatives in Enugu State raided a hotel based on credible intelligence and arrested eight suspected members of the Vikings Confraternity. The suspects have been transferred to the Anti-Cultism Unit for further investigation.
In the Federal Capital Territory, police foiled an attempted vehicle snatching during a routine patrol. The victim, who sustained a gunshot injury, was rescued and taken for medical treatment, while the vehicle was secured. Police have launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects.
In Katsina State, police successfully repelled an attack by armed bandits after a fierce exchange of gunfire, forcing the criminals to flee with suspected gunshot wounds. One civilian was killed during the attack, while another victim is receiving medical attention. Security operatives have commenced bush-combing operations to track down the fleeing bandits.
A major rescue operation in Kwara State led to the safe rescue of a kidnapped victim following a gun duel between joint security operatives and kidnappers. The victim has since been reunited with her family. However, one vigilante lost his life during the operation, while another sustained injuries. Efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing kidnappers.
In Nasarawa State, a joint police and vigilante team disrupted suspected armed robbers, arresting one suspect in possession of a stolen motorcycle. The suspect reportedly confessed and provided information on other members of the gang, who are currently being tracked.
Police in Ogun State also intensified investigations into a suspected human trafficking syndicate, taking one suspect into custody while continuing efforts to rescue another victim believed to be in captivity.
In Rivers State, police rescued two suspected “one chance” operators from mob action after they were accused of robbing commuters. The suspects reportedly confessed and implicated other gang members. Police officers were attacked during the rescue operation, while investigations and efforts to arrest other members of the gang continue.
Meanwhile, in Yobe State, police arrested three suspects over conspiracy and armed robbery. The suspects reportedly confessed to the crime and are assisting investigators.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, all the cases are being investigated by the respective State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs), while efforts remain ongoing to apprehend fleeing suspects, recover additional exhibits and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the country, urging members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information to enhance crime prevention and public safety.
