The Nigeria Police Force Special Tactical Squad (STS) has arrested 22 suspects and recovered firearms, vehicles, motorcycles, illicit drugs and other incriminating items following a series of intelligence-led operations across several states of the federation.
In a statement, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja CSP Benjamin Hundeyin said the suspects were apprehended for offences ranging from armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, cattle rustling and car snatching to economic sabotage, impersonation and drug trafficking. Items recovered during the operations include six firearms—comprising a Light Automatic Rifle (LAR), a pump-action gun, AK-49 rifle, AK-47 rifle and an SMG rifle—as well as two rounds of live ammunition. A total of 45 exhibits, including vehicles, motorcycles and suspected illicit substances, were also seized.
In a major operation along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway, STS operatives intercepted a J5 vehicle conveying 13 brand-new motorcycles alongside weapons and other suspected criminal items. Further investigations led to the arrest of a 35-year-old suspect, Luke Ifeanyi, in connection with armed robbery and economic sabotage.
Related operations within the Federal Capital Territory resulted in the arrest of a Kuje Custodial Centre escapee, Ayo Abiodun, who is suspected to have robbed a serving Nigerian Army officer. In another incident, a 40-year-old suspect, Yusuf Shehu, was arrested with a stolen tricycle. Police investigations revealed that Shehu was impersonating a police officer, with a police mobile uniform and identity card recovered from him. STS operatives also intercepted a vehicle transporting large quantities of leaves suspected to be cannabis and other controlled substances.
In Edo State, four suspects were arrested for unlawful possession of prohibited firearms and alleged involvement in violent attacks on a community. In Lagos and Ogun states, two suspects linked to a car-snatching syndicate were apprehended. Meanwhile, in Nasarawa and neighbouring states, 12 suspects connected to banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling were arrested, with several firearms recovered during the operations.
The police said investigations into all the cases are ongoing and that the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations, in line with extant laws.
Commending the operatives for their courage and professionalism, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, said the successes underscore the Force’s commitment to protecting lives, dismantling criminal networks and ensuring public safety. He also urged members of the public to continue providing credible information to support the fight against crime across the country.
