Police Arrest Three Suspected Terrorist Collaborators, Recover Two AK Rifles in Imo

Police Arrest Three Suspected Terrorist Collaborators, Recover Two AK Rifles in Imo

By Our Reporter

Abuja (Core Reporters) The Nigeria Police Force has recorded operational successes across several states in the last 24 hours, including the arrest of suspected terrorist collaborators, the dismantling of an illegal firearms manufacturing operation, the recovery of firearms, and rescue efforts following attacks and abductions.

In Imo State, the police arrested three suspected terrorist collaborators and recovered two AK rifles. One of the suspects was identified as the alleged owner of a terrorist camp, while the recovered weapons include an AK-49 rifle reportedly linked to the killing of a Homeland Security Guard and an AK-47 rifle allegedly snatched from Agwa Police Station during an attack in 2022.

In Taraba State, police operatives dismantled an illegal firearms manufacturing operation, arrested a 50-year-old suspected manufacturer and recovered six firearms, comprising four locally made Dane guns and two single-barrel guns, alongside firearms-making tools. The suspect is assisting investigators with information on arms buyers as efforts continue to recover additional weapons and arrest other suspects.

Other operational successes were recorded in Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe, Ogun and Niger States.

In Plateau State, security personnel repelled an attack on Tanjol Village in Riyom Local Government Area, forcing the assailants to flee into the surrounding forest. A joint search-and-rescue operation subsequently led to the recovery of two injured security personnel, who were taken to hospital for treatment.

In Bauchi State, police arrested a suspect in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 25-year-old man during a fight in Bauchi metropolis and recovered the alleged murder weapon. In a separate operation, police teams, professional hunters and vigilantes were mobilised following the abduction of three persons in the Gwamnare Forest axis, with efforts ongoing to rescue the victims.

Gombe State recorded two separate operations. Police arrested a suspect in connection with the fatal assault of a 16-year-old victim in Gudukku District, Nafada LGA. In another incident, tactical teams, hunters and local vigilantes were deployed following the abduction of a 60-year-old man from his residence in Layi Village, Dukku LGA. The search-and-rescue operation remains ongoing.

In Ogun State, police arrested one suspected attacker following a report of threats and an alleged cult-related attack at Kajola, Ikenne, while efforts continue to apprehend other fleeing suspects.

In Niger State, police responded to a mob action in Nasko following the deaths of two suspected thieves who were allegedly attempting to dispossess an Okada rider of his motorcycle. The remains of the deceased were recovered and deposited at the General Hospital, Nasko, as investigation continues to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those involved.

The Nigeria Police Force said the operations demonstrate its continued efforts to disrupt criminal networks, recover illegal firearms, protect communities, rescue victims and bring suspected offenders to justice.