NPF Nabs 23 Suspects, Recovers Weapons, Frees 12 Kidnap Victims Across Nigeria
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has recorded significant operational successes across the country, arresting 23 suspects, rescuing 12 kidnapped victims, and recovering three firearms, 10 rounds of ammunition, and one vehicle during coordinated security operations.
According to the Force’s Daily Situation Report released on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, the operations were carried out across several states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with investigations ongoing into the various criminal cases.
In Akwa Ibom State, police operatives arrested a suspect identified as Edet Akpan George after recovering a single-barrel gun and eight live cartridges from his residence in Uyo. The suspect allegedly threatened his neighbours and family members with the firearm.
In Ebonyi State, police rescued three underage girls who were allegedly trafficked under the guise of overseas employment. Fourteen suspects were arrested during a raid on a hotel in Ohaukwu Local Government Area. The victims told investigators they had been deceived with promises of travelling abroad.
In the Federal Capital Territory, a joint operation involving the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and other security agencies led to the rescue of three persons abducted during an attack in Mpape. One person was killed in the initial attack, while another sustained gunshot injuries.
Police also arrested a suspect following a communal clash between Gwari and Fulani communities in Kwali Area Council.
In Kano State, operatives arrested a motorist during an enforcement operation and recovered a Beretta pistol, suspected Indian hemp, a knife, electric wires, 120 lithium batteries, and the vehicle used by the suspect.
In Kogi State, police rescued six kidnapped passengers after suspected kidnappers attacked a commercial bus along the Ajaokuta Highway. Four victims, however, remain in captivity as security operatives continue search and rescue efforts.
Similarly, in Nasarawa State, police arrested a suspected kidnapper linked to the abduction of students of the Federal University of Lafia.
According to the report, the suspect made useful confessional statements that are assisting efforts to rescue the remaining abducted students.
In Rivers State, police arrested three suspects allegedly attempting to recover proceeds of fraud with a firearm. A Beretta pistol and two rounds of live ammunition were recovered during the operation.
The report also highlighted serious security incidents recorded during the reporting period. Five homicide cases were reported in Kaduna, Kogi, Niger, Oyo, and Sokoto states, while two armed robbery incidents occurred in Bauchi and Rivers states.
Police further recorded three kidnapping incidents in the FCT, Kogi, and Nasarawa states, one banditry incident in Niger State, and one terrorism-related attack in Sokoto State.
According to the operational statistics, the Force arrested 23 suspects, recovered three firearms, 10 rounds of ammunition, and one vehicle, while successfully rescuing 12 kidnapped victims. No suspect was neutralised during the reporting period.
The Nigeria Police Force said investigations into the various cases are ongoing and assured Nigerians that efforts have been intensified to apprehend fleeing suspects and strengthen the protection of lives and property across the country.
