Police Arrest 50 Suspects, Recover Arms and Ammunition — Force Spokesperson
By Admin
Abuja (Core Reporters) The Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant operational successes in its sustained efforts to combat crime nationwide, with the arrest of 50 suspects linked to offences including kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, and illegal arms possession.
Addressing journalists at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) Headquarters in Guzape, Abuja, the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, highlighted achievements recorded between January and April 2026.
According to him, coordinated operations by FID-IRT operatives led to the recovery of 17 rifles of various models, 111 rounds of live ammunition, 17 cartridges, magazines, communication devices, vehicles, and other exhibits connected to criminal activities.
Among the notable cases was the arrest of Musa Jibrin, linked to criminal conspiracy and unlawful possession of firearms. One FNC rifle and an empty magazine were recovered, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend his accomplice, who remains at large.
In a separate operation in Benue State, four members of an armed robbery syndicate—Anuga Emmanuel, Peter John, Francis Abba Idoko, and Ohepo Ogwuche—were arrested. The suspects specialised in mounting fake police checkpoints to rob unsuspecting members of the public. Recovered exhibits include locally fabricated firearms, live cartridges, and a Police Mobile Force uniform used as a disguise.
The police also arrested four suspects—Lucky Ogoibe, Chinedu Nwazak, Dorathy Ogu, and Nonso Uzo—along the Dei-Dei/Kubwa Expressway in Abuja for their involvement in abduction, “one chance” extortion, robbery, and attempted murder. Items recovered include a vehicle, mobile phones, and cash linked to their operations.
In Taraba State, operatives arrested three suspects—Shagari Ali, Sule Abdullahi, and Idris Akawu—believed to be responsible for the killing of three police officers in Donga Local Government Area. An AK-47 rifle was recovered during the operation.
In a major crackdown, 33 suspected members of a criminal network involved in terrorism, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and arms dealing were arrested across Kwara and Kogi states. The operation followed investigations into the attack on a church in Eruku, Kwara State. Recovered items include seven AK-47 rifles, an anti-aircraft launcher, ammunition, communication devices, and other operational gear.
Additionally, Nasiru Ibrahim was arrested in Benue State for illegal possession of an AK-47 rifle and ammunition, while Chimezie Uzo was apprehended in Abuja for car burglary and theft, with a fabricated master key recovered from him.
The police noted that investigations are ongoing in all cases, with efforts intensified to apprehend fleeing suspects and recover more weapons.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Force, DCP Placid said the Nigeria Police will continue to strengthen intelligence-led operations and collaborate with relevant security agencies to ensure the safety of all citizens.
He expressed confidence that ongoing efforts would significantly reduce crime and foster a more peaceful and secure Nigeria.
