Tag: Police

• …as IGP commends officers for vigilance, commitment to safety

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) across the country have apprehended multiple groups of armed robbers, cultists and hoodlums targeting fun seekers and engaging in gangsterism during Christmas celebrations. 

The police said that twenty three  criminals have been arrested. 

The Force said the arrest is in furtherance of the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, to commands and formations to emplace unalloyed anti crime strategies towards ensuring adequate safety and security during the festive period.

According to a statement issued on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi: “On the 25th of December 2024, at about 1am, the police operatives attached to Lagos State Command, received a distress call that a group of hoodlums armed with dangerous weapons was operating around the Safejo area of Amukoko, Lagos State”.

The swift response by the police operatives to the scene, Adejobi said led to the arrest of 3 of the suspected hoodlums identified as: ” Emmanuel Okoli ‘m’, 20 years, Ogunde Tejiri ‘m’, 20 years, and Emmanuel Orji ‘m’, 18 years, and also the recovery of the weapons they had used in carrying out robbery attacks on innocent funseekers in the area. The police have emplaced intensified searches to apprehend the fleeing members of the gang. 

“In a similar development, Police Operatives attached to Saminaka Division of the Kaduna State Command on 25th December 2024, at about 8pm, successfully apprehended one Sule Muhammad ‘m’, 25 years, who has been actively involved in multiple kidnapping incidents within the Saminaka area”. 

Read Also: Yuletide: Senator Karimi fetes military, police, other security formations in Kogi West

Further investigation, he said led to the recovery of a fabricated AK-47 rifle from the suspect. 

The suspect, the police said confessed to being a member of a notorious kidnapping gang who had been evading arrest since the arrest of other gang members on August 16, 2024, until his recent arrest on 25th December 2024. 

“Following cooperation received from Muhammad, efforts are in top gear to apprehend other members of his gang and recover more arms and ammunition in their identified camp. Commendable efforts of the Nigeria Police Operatives have also been witnessed in states including Delta, Ogun Katsina, Benue, FCT and Imo, leading to the arrests of several suspects in various locations during the Christmas celebration period.

“The IGP has commended the officers involved in these operations for their vigilance and commitment to public safety, highlighting their display of exemplary dedication in safeguarding our communities, especially during this joyful season”, Adejobi added. 

The IGP urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. 

He assured citizens that the Force is fully committed to creating a safe environment for everyone as they partake in the joy and cheer of the holiday season.

“As the celebrations continue, the Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to protect all citizens and ensure that the spirit of festivities during this period remains unmarred by criminal activities”, he said.

The police command in Katsina State has foiled a kidnap attempt while rescuing 10 passengers at Kwanar Makera in Jibia Local Government Area of the state.

The police spokesperson, ASP Abubakar Aliyu, confirmed this in a statement on Wednesday in Katsina.

He said: “On Dec. 24,  at 8:30 p.m., some suspected armed bandits, armed with dangerous weapons and shooting sporadically, attacked a commercial vehicle at Kwanar Makera on Katsina-Magama-Jibia road in Jibia LGA, in an attempt to kidnap 10 occupants of the said vehicle.

“Upon receiving the distress call, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Jibia, swiftly led a team of operatives to the scene, engaging the bandits in a gun duel.

“The team successfully foiled the kidnap attempt, and rescued all the 10 victims”.

Aliyu said that four of the rescued victims sustained gunshot injuries as a result of the bandits’ attack and were rushed to the hospital for immediate medical attention.

Read Also: Police knock Catholic priest over comment on Abuja palliative stampede

“Unfortunately, two victims succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment,” he said.

Aliyu further said that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects as the investigation continued.

The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State, Mr Aliyu Abubakar-Musa, while commending the officers’ exceptional display of gallantry and dedication to duty, charged them to sustain the tempo.

He further urged the public to always give the police useful information on criminals’ activities for prompt and decisive action.

(NAN) 

…reaffirms comprehensive safety measures

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun on Wednesday ordered police operatives deployed during the festive season to remain on heightened alert.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said: “The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, extends heartfelt greetings and warm wishes to all citizens celebrating this joyful time of the year on behalf of all officers of the Nigeria Police Force. In this delightful moment to come together with family and friends, to share in love, peace, and the spirit of giving, the NPF wishes everyone safe, joyous, and memorable festivities.

“As we commemorate the festive season, it is also vital to prioritize the safety and well-being of all. Therefore, the Force once again reiterates its commitment to ensuring that our communities across the country remain safe as the festivities unfold.

“To this effect, the Inspector-General of Police has ordered Police Operatives to remain on heightened alert during the holiday period. Comprehensive safety measures are being implemented, and patrols will be intensified in areas of festive events and gatherings.

“The Nigeria Police Force urges citizens to remain vigilant and practice safety precautions. As we partake in the spirit of giving this Christmas, let us also embrace one another so as to key into the doctrines of the season. Together, we can ensure that this festive season is not only cheerful but safe for all.”

The Police Command in Anambra has apprehended a suspect, Chukwuma Obi who disguises as a member of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to issue kidnapping threat to unsuspecting residents.

SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Awka.

“The suspect is accused of demanding for N1.2 million through threats of abduction.

“The victim reported receiving a menacing message from an individual claiming to be a member of the proscribed IPOB, threatening abduction unless the demanded ransom was paid into a specified account.

“During the arrest of the suspect the sum of N1.2 million was recovered,” he said.

Ikenga said that Obi, a 32-year-old male, hails from Umuagu Village, Igboukwu, Aguata Local Government Area of the state.

According to him, operatives of the Anambra police command arrested the suspect in connection with an alleged case of attempted kidnapping and extortion.

Read Also: Soludo signs N606.99bn 2025 Budget, promises accelerated growth for Anambra

The arrest was made on December 24, 2024, by operatives of the Anti-Cultism Squad, Enugu-Ukwu.

He explained that during interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime and is currently assisting the police in identifying and apprehending fleeing members of the gang.

He quoted the Commissioner of Police (CP), Nnaghe Itam, as saying that the command was committed to pursuing all cases to a conclusive end to ensure that suspects were apprehended and justice served.

Itam emphasized that such efforts were vital in preventing further criminal activities and ensuring the safety and security of residents.

The PPRO urged the public to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through its emergency lines.

(NAN) 

• Receives kudos from Sanwo-Olu

Deputy Leader of Lagos Island Local Government, Taiwo Oyekan, has given N20 million to vulnerable residents in the council as part of his socio-economic intervention initiatives.

Widows, elderly citizens, the physically-challenged, petty traders, artisans technicians and underprivileged also got N30,000 each.

He donated hundreds of 5kg bags of rice and 3kg cylinders filled with gas to his constituents.

Oyekan presented a patrol van to Ebute-Ero Police Station and rolled out two buses to convey pupils from home to school.

He announced two hajj slots to beneficiaries from his ward.

Read Also: North will vote for Tinubu again in 2027 – Arewa Group

The grassroot politician reiterated his commitment to serve. He vowed to deliver people-centric projects on the island.

He said: “I know the needs of Lagos Island people and it is pertinent to upscale their standard of living. My all-encompassing and life-transforming initiatives are tailored to uplift residents and make our communities liveable”.

He urged beneficiaries to make good use of the gifts.

Oyekan reaffirmed his commitment to complementing the state and federal governments’ strides.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended Oyekan’s gesture. Represented by Special Adviser on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Tajudeen Afolabi, Sanwo-Olu said: “Taiwo Oyekan has displayed leadership. He is an exceptional individual.”

The governor said Oyekan’s programmes are in line with the THEMES+ Agenda.

Chairman of Lagos Governor’s Advisory Council Chairman, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, extolled Oyekan for his rare feats.

“Taiwo is upholding the legacy of the royal family,” he said.

…holds Strategic end of year conference in Abuja

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on Tuesday, disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has recorded a total of 30,313 arrests, and recovered 1,984 firearms, and 23,250 ammunition in 2024.

Egbetokun revealed this at a strategic meeting held at the Force Headquarters with top police officers of the NPF.

According to him, the meeting, which took place at the Goodluck Ebele Peacekeeping Hall, served as a platform for reviewing the achievements of the Force in the year 2024.

He added that the meeting also outlined strategic plans for innovation and adaptability as the Force gears up for the challenges of 2025.

Egbetokun acknowledged the hard work and dedication displayed by police officers throughout the year, particularly the significant accomplishments in crime reduction and community engagement, specifically noting the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering trust between the police and the public.

He said: “In the year under review, the Nigeria Police Force recorded major successes in tackling crime, leading to the arrest of 30,313 suspects for various heinous offences, the recovery of 1,984 assorted firearms, 23,250 rounds of ammunition of varying calibres, and the rescue of 1,581 kidnapped victims.”

The NPF boss added that the Force is set to embrace a forward-thinking approach in 2025, focusing on innovation and technological advancement to strengthen its operational strategies.

He also noted that the Force aims to learn from past experiences and adapt to emerging challenges, ensuring a proactive and efficient approach to crime prevention and investigation.

Egbetokun said: “The Force will prioritize innovation in technology and operational strategies in 2025, learning from experiences and adapting as we move on. The IGP also encouraged senior officers to embrace modern tools and progressive practices that enhance the Force’s effectiveness in crime prevention and investigation.

Read Also: JUST IN: Three suspected bandits killed, two police dead in Imo shootout

“As the nation approaches the festive season, the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, is poised to implement the necessary measures to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for all citizens.

“The IGP reiterates the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the public, ensuring safety, and fostering a culture of accountability”.

Reflecting on 2024, the IGP said it is clear that both the Nigeria Police Force and the country at large faced a range of security challenges, adding that: “but we also achieved notable successes. We dealt with a variety of internal threats, such as banditry, insurgency, kidnapping, and armed robbery, as well as external threats posed by groups like ISWAP and the Lakurawa terrorists, primarily in the North West region.

“The country also confronted other critical issues, including cultism, drug trafficking, arms trafficking, terrorism financing, money laundering, and cybercrimes, especially among our youth. Protests and civil unrest added to the challenges. However, despite these difficulties, the Nigeria Police Force has shown remarkable resilience, collaborating with sister agencies to ensure law and order. We have reaffirmed our commitment to addressing these threats and safeguarding the well-being of all Nigerians.

“Throughout 2024, we made substantial strides in enhancing the safety and security of Nigerians. Our officers displayed remarkable dedication in combating criminal activities across urban and rural areas. Through revitalized crime prevention efforts, we have made significant progress in reducing crime, ensuring public safety, and improving service delivery. These accomplishments reflect our firm commitment to holding perpetrators accountable for their crimes”.

Egbetokun said the National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) made considerable strides in cybercrime enforcement.

He said detectives uncovered a major fraud operation, recovering N3.9 billion and arresting individuals linked to a multi-bank scam.

Also, the NPF boss said in November, a coordinated raid led to the capture of 130 suspects, including 113 foreign nationals, involved in global cybercrime operations.

The Imo State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit has neutralized three suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a gunfight in Orogwe, Owerri West Local Government Area, on December 19, 2024.

Tragically, two police officers lost their lives during the fierce exchange.

The operation followed extensive investigations and intelligence gathering. 

A police source revealed that the suspects, upon sighting the operatives, opened fire, leading to the deaths of three suspects and the arrest of two others.

Police spokesman Henry Okoye confirmed the arrests of 20-year-old David Ifeanyichukwu and 24-year-old Abuchi Joseph. 

Okoye added that the group was behind the November 12, 2024, abduction of Osuji Caleb Chimereze and three others, during which they also stole a Mercedes Benz and other valuables.

“The police operation, which took place on December 19, 2024, in Orogwe, Owerri West Local Government Area, followed extensive investigation and intelligence gathering,” he said.

Read Also: Hadi’s sack: Wike not running FCTA based on religion, aide replies MURIC

He said : “During the confrontation, the operatives recovered six AK-47 rifles, 131 rounds of live ammunition, a locally made gun, and two stolen vehicles.

“Unfortunately, two police officers sustained injuries during the exchange of fire and later succumbed to their injuries. The Imo State Police Command mourns their loss and commends their dedication in the line of duty.

He said efforts are now focused on capturing the other members of the syndicate who managed to escape during the operation. 

He said that the State Police Command was intensifying patrols and security operations in synergy with other security agencies to ensure a hitch-free yuletide.

“We are committed to ensuring the safety of all residents, especially during the holiday season,” he said adding “We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via 0803 477 3600.”