The Nigeria Police Force has announced major breakthroughs in its ongoing efforts to curb banditry, kidnapping, and the illegal possession of firearms across the country.
In a statement, Force Public Relations Officer Force Headquarters, Abuja ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said in a series of coordinated intelligence-led operations, police operatives apprehended key suspects, rescued kidnapped victims, and recovered dangerous weapons.
In Niger State, suspected kidnappers invaded Tungan-Boka and Masaha villages in Mashegu Local Government Area, abducting seven individuals. A swift response by operatives of the Niger State Police Command, in collaboration with local security teams, led to a successful rescue operation. The suspects were traced to a forest near Tungan-Boka, where they engaged the operatives in a gun battle. The kidnappers were overpowered, and all seven hostages were rescued unharmed.
Similarly, in Plateau State, operatives acting on credible intelligence raided a criminal hideout along Bauchi Road in Jos North LGA. An abandoned ash-colored Golf Wagon was recovered, and a search revealed 500 rounds of 7.65mm ammunition. The cache is linked to an ongoing homicide investigation from May 3, 2025, involving an unidentified victim. Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the culprits.
In Taraba State, operatives arrested a suspected kidnapper, Lookman Tanko, during a tactical operation. Recovered from him were an AK-47 rifle, a pump-action shotgun, and a long gun. In a related operation, detectives from the Force Intelligence Department’s Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) arrested another suspect, Peter Apai, 45, in Ardo Kola LGA. Recovered items included an AK-47 rifle, a pump-action shotgun, and a magazine. Both suspects remain in custody and will be charged in court following the conclusion of investigations.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, commended the dedication and bravery of the officers involved, urging continued vigilance and collaboration to dismantle criminal syndicates. He also called on the public to support police efforts by sharing timely and relevant information that could aid ongoing investigations.
