Police Rescue 20 Victims, Arrest Suspects in Multi-State Anti-Crime Operations

The Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant operational successes across several states, rescued kidnap victims, arresting suspected criminals, and recovered arms, ammunition, and other exhibits in coordinated intelligence-led operations carried out on August 4, 2026.

According to a state-by-state operational summary released by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the operations underscored the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to tackling kidnapping, armed robbery, rape, cattle rustling, and other violent crimes across the country.

In Ogun State, police operatives arrested a suspected fraudster and kidnap suspect linked to the abduction of multiple victims across Ogun, Oyo, and Osun states. The operation also led to the rescue of 16 abducted foreign nationals from a hideout in Onipanu-Ota. A Malian international passport was recovered, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the principal suspect. The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, is handling the investigation.

In Enugu State, a joint security operation resulted in the rescue of two kidnapped victims after a gun battle with suspected kidnappers. Security operatives recovered 15 rounds of live AK-47 ammunition, mobile phones, cash, and other exhibits from the suspects’ hideout. The victims, who were rescued unhurt, received medical attention before being reunited with their families.

Similarly, in Plateau State, police operatives arrested two suspected kidnappers and recovered one AK-47 rifle with 30 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition. Efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the criminal gang.

In Oyo State, three suspected armed robbers and cultists were arrested during a stop-and-search operation, leading to the recovery of a locally fabricated pistol and an axe. In a separate operation, joint security operatives rescued a kidnapped victim unhurt after engaging suspected kidnappers in a gun duel.

In Delta State, police arrested a suspect over the alleged rape of a pregnant woman. The victim was taken for medical examination and treatment, while investigations continue at the SCID in Asaba.

Meanwhile, in Benue State, police acting on credible intelligence arrested three foreign nationals suspected of engaging in clandestine activities. The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.

In Katsina State, police operatives foiled a cattle rustling operation after engaging armed bandits in a gun battle. The suspects fled with suspected gunshot injuries, while three rustled cows were recovered. A manhunt has been launched to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

The Police said all cases are under investigation by the respective State Criminal Investigation Departments, reaffirming the Force’s commitment to protecting lives and property and sustaining intelligence-driven operations against criminal elements across the country.

The Force also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, emphasized that collaborative efforts remain vital in the fight against crime.

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