The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Police

  • JUST IN: PSC approves Olanrewaju Ogunlowo as Ogun Commissioner of Police

    JUST IN: PSC approves Olanrewaju Ogunlowo as Ogun Commissioner of Police

    The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the posting of CP Olanrewaju Ogunlowo from Kwara state as the new substantive Commissioner of Police Ogun State.

    CP Ogunlowo takes over from CP Abiodun Alamutu who has retired from the service of the Nigeria Police Force.

    Read Also: Yuletide: Police arrest armed robbery suspects, recover firearms, others in Enugu

    According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, the Commission’s approval has been communicated to the Inspector General of Police for implementation in a letter signed by the Secretary to the Commission, Chief Onyemuche Nnamani. 

    Commission Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd congratulated the new Ogun State Command Commissioner and advised that he should use his new office to ensure that Ogun State is properly policed where law and order are maintained and crime and criminality drastically reduced.

    Argungu said the Commission will continue to support the Police in any way possible to ensure a safe environment for Nigerians.

  • Yuletide: Police arrest armed robbery suspects, recover firearms, others in Enugu

    Yuletide: Police arrest armed robbery suspects, recover firearms, others in Enugu

    The Enugu State Police Command, Thursday, announced the arrest of two armed robbery suspects and the recovery of five firearms, two live cartridges, a snatched tricycle, and other incriminating items.

    One of the suspects, according to a release by the state police public relations officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, is Daniel Aniude, 29, of 27, Isiekenise Street, Abakpa-Nike, Enugu.

    Ndukwe said Aniude’s arrest was effected by police operatives from the Abakpa Division in collaboration with the neighbourhood watch group of the area.

    “The suspect and his accomplices, who fled, were intercepted in the act of robbing a female victim. One imitation pistol was recovered during the operation.

    “Following the conclusion of further investigations by the Anti-Robbery (D9) Section of the State CID, Aniude was arraigned in court and remanded in the Nigerian Correctional Custodial Service,” Ndukwe said.

    Read Also: Police dislodge illegal youth group, arrest three members in Akwa Ibom

    He disclosed that another suspect, Uzor David, aged 25, from Isu community in Aniocha LGA of Ebonyi State, was arrested on November 12, 2024, around 2 p.m., by operatives from the Nkanu East Division, supported by Neighbourhood Watch members and vigilant citizens.

    The statement read: “The suspect had earlier chartered a tricycle from Holy Ghost, Enugu, to Nara in Nkanu East LGA. Upon arrival, he used a locally made pistol to shoot the tricyclist in the hand, snatched, and attempted to escape with the tricycle.

    “However, security operatives swiftly intervened, arresting the suspect and recovering the tricycle and firearm. The injured victim is receiving treatment and is in stable condition. The suspect will face court charges upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.

    “Furthermore, on December 10, 2024, at about 2 a.m., police operatives from the Emene Division, aided by the Neighbourhood Watch, thwarted an armed robbery attempt at Upper Rehab, Emene, Enugu.

    “The robbers fled, abandoning a locally made pistol and an expended cartridge, which were subsequently recovered. Moreover, another attempted robbery at College Road, Abakpa-Nike, Enugu, on December 2, 2024, around 8 p.m., was foiled by Abakpa Division operatives working with the Neighbourhood Watch. The fleeing suspects left behind a locally made pistol and two live cartridges, which were recovered.

    “Additionally, police operatives from Enugu Metro Area Command, on December 6, 2024, at about 2:30 p.m., acted on credible information and discovered a Beretta pistol hidden in a sack containing cassava flakes (garri) at Abakpa Junction Bus Stop, Enugu. A discreet investigation is ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible”.

    Meanwhile, the state commissioner of police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, has reaffirmed the command’s unwavering resolve to make Enugu State unsafe for criminals throughout the yuletide season and beyond. He urged residents to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and proactive in supporting the police with credible information and intelligence.

  • Police dislodge illegal youth group, arrest three members in Akwa Ibom

    Police dislodge illegal youth group, arrest three members in Akwa Ibom

    The Akwa Ibom state police command has dismantled an illegal youth organization, the Ibom Youth Council, operating in Ikot Isighe, Mkpat Enin local government area.  

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Timfon John, confirmed the arrest of three members of the group during a raid.  

    John revealed that the group was engaged in procuring arms to launch attacks on security formations and private properties within the state.  

    The police spokesperson also noted that despite being recently proscribed by Governor Umo Eno, the group had begun military training as part of their plans for the attacks.  

    The statement reads in part: “Following the proscription of the Ibom Youth Council by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, and his directive to security agencies to immediately end the nefarious activities of the group, a joint security team, acting on credible intelligence, visited the building serving as the operational headquarters of the illegal group at Ikot Isighe, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area. 

    “On arrival at the locus criminis, members of the group fled in different directions. The operation led to the arrest of three (3) suspects, and their headquarters was demolished.

    “Available evidence shows that the group had not only begun procuring arms but had also commenced military training, attacks on security formations, and infractions on private property. Their plan was to launch a full-scale disruption of law and order in the closing days of 2024 and sustain the unrest into the New Year.

    “The security apparatus, with the full backing of the state government, is determined to use all legal means to maintain Akwa Ibom’s hard-earned status as the most peaceful state in the country. 

    “To this end, citizens are advised to remain vigilant and share information about persons or groups engaging in activities capable of disturbing public peace. 

    “Landlords are warned to be cautious before leasing their properties to individuals or organizations. Any property used in the commission of crimes, especially acts of subversion against the state, will be demolished, and the owners will be treated as accomplices”.

  • Insecurity: FCT Police CP calls for synergy among law enforcement agencies

    Insecurity: FCT Police CP calls for synergy among law enforcement agencies

    • …as Disu visits sister security agencies

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT)Commissioner of Police (CP), Olatunji Disu has called for synergy among law enforcement agencies to further tackle security challenges in the nation’s capital.

    Disu said this during a series of familiarization visits to key security stakeholders in Abuja.

    A statement issued by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josphine Adeh said: “The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Olatunji Disu, on Tuesday, 10th December 2024, undertook a series of familiarization visits to key security stakeholders in Abuja. He visited the Commander, Guards Brigade, Commander 053 NAF Camp, The Commandant NSCDC, The State Director of Security and the Commander Naval Unit, Abuja.

    Read Also: South Korean police raid President’s office over martial law

    “The courtesy visits are a part of ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration among security agencies within the Federal Capital Territory. During these engagements, CP Disu emphasized the importance of fostering inter-agency cooperation, enhancing synergy, and building mutual understanding to effectively address the uprising security challenges facing the FCT and its environs.

    “CP Disu highlighted the significance of strong partnerships among security agencies in ensuring the safety and security of all residents in the FCT.

    “The Commissioner of Police extends his gratitude to heads of all the sister security agencies for their hospitality, pledging his continued collaboration in the pursuit of a secure and peaceful FCT.”

  • Kano police arrest three suspects with N129.5b counterfeit currencies

    Kano police arrest three suspects with N129.5b counterfeit currencies

    • 59 others paraded for various crimes

    The Kano State Police Command yesterday arrested Muhammed Muktar, 35, Nura Ibrahim, 26, and 30 year-old Muhammed Abdullahi for trading in counterfeit currencies.

    The fake currencies recovered from the trio included $3,366,000, CFA51,970,000 and N1.4 million, totalling N129.5 billion.

     Also, 59 other suspects arrested for various offenses included eight armed robbers, 10 cattle rustlers, three kidnappers and one suspect for abduction and four drug dealers.

    Other suspects included six tricycle thieves, four motorcycle thieves, four fraudsters and 22 thugs (Yan Daba).

    A kidnap victim, another abduction victim and human traffic victims were rescued by the police.

    Read Also: Businessman decries ‘forced’ invasion by EFCC officials

    Some of the recoveries included live ammunition, three tricycles, eight motorcycles, three parcels and 175 wraps of Indian Hemp, 250 pieces of Diazepam tablets, 278 sheep and seven cattle.

    Other recoveries included five necklaces and five earrings, 10 SIM cards, 15 ATM cards and 10 mobile phones.

    Police Commissioner, Salman Garba, said the arrests were made within two weeks, from November 25 to December 9, 2024.

    A Superintendent of the Police (SP), Abdullahi Kiyawa, who briefed reporters on behalf of the Police commissioner, said as a result of the “multifaceted approach“ adopted by the command, Kano has become safer and more secure.

    “Businesses are thriving, residents are feeling safer in their homes, and the general sense of security and well-being has been greatly enhanced,” he said, promising to remain committed to improving efforts and strengthening partnership with other security agencies and the community to ensure that Kano remains a beacon of safety and security for residents and visitors.

  • Kaduna Police neutralise bandit, foil kidnap

    Kaduna Police neutralise bandit, foil kidnap

    The Kaduna State Police Command has announced a series of successful operations against criminal elements, including neutralising a bandit, foiling a kidnapping attempt, and arresting three suspected armed robbers and gunrunners.

    The Command’s  Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mansir Hassan, who made this known in a statement, also said several  firearms and ammunition were also recovered during the  operations.

    Read Also: Sokoto police nab two car theft suspects, recover five vehicles

    He said the operations were carried out between December 8 and 10, following credible intelligence.

    According to Hassan, on  December 8, about 2:45 a.m., officers from the Kasuwan Mata Division arrested a 35-year-old suspect, Adamu Yahaya, at a brothel in Zaria.  He added that the suspect was found in possession of a locally fabricated pistol, a live cartridge, and a pair of handcuffs.

  • Kaduna police neutralise bandits, foil kidnap attempt, arrest robbers

    Kaduna police neutralise bandits, foil kidnap attempt, arrest robbers

    The Kaduna state police command has announced a series of successful operations against criminal elements, including neutralising a bandit, foiling a kidnapping attempt, and arresting three suspected armed robbers and gunrunners.

    The command’s public relations officer, ASP Mansir Hassan who made this known in a statement also said several firearms and ammunition were also recovered during the operations.

    He said the operations were carried out between December 8 and 10, 2024, following credible intelligence.

    According to Hassan, on December 8, at about 2:45 a.m., officers from the Kasuwan Mata Division arrested a 35-year-old suspect, Adamu Yahaya, at a brothel in Zaria.  He added that the suspect was found in possession of a locally fabricated pistol, a live cartridge, and a pair of handcuffs.

    He said: “In another operation on the same day, a patrol team from the Barnawa Division intercepted two suspects, Andrew Emmanuel and Mendwas Peter Bulus, during a stop-and-search operation. Recovered items included a service pistol, two Infinix phones, and quantities of suspected Indian hemp. The suspects confessed to armed robbery activities in Kaduna, and investigations are ongoing to uncover their network.

    “On December 9, a surveillance team attached to the Dan Magaji Division intercepted three individuals along the Kano-Kaduna expressway. A search revealed 216 rounds of 9mm ammunition and one round of 7.62x39mm ammunition. The suspects, identified as Buhari Suleiman, Jamil Yakubu, and Aliyu Abdullahi, are believed to be involved in arms trafficking. Preliminary investigations revealed Yakubu had purchased ammunition from Suleiman before being apprehended.

    Read Also: Kaduna Police arrest notorious gunrunner, recover 20 AK-47 rifles

    “Additionally, on December 10, the Damakasuwa Divisional Police Officer (DPO) responded to intelligence about a suspected bandit attack on Tudu Gishere residents. A joint operation involving the Police, Kaduna State Vigilance Service (KADVS), and Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) repelled the attack, neutralizing one bandit while others escaped with injuries,” the PPRO stated.

    The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Abdullahi, however, commended the officers for their bravery and urged residents to provide timely and credible information to aid the fight against crime in Kaduna state.

  • Police, CSOs sensitise Southeast youths on cybercrime consequences

    Police, CSOs sensitise Southeast youths on cybercrime consequences

    Personnel of the Nigerian police, along with members of various civil society organisations, embarked on a freedom walk in Enugu on Tuesday to sensitize the youth and residents of the Southeast region about the ills of cybercrime.

    The event, organized by the South Saharan Social Development Organization and Spaces for Change (S4C), in collaboration with the Nigerian Police National Cyber Crime Centre, aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of cybercrime in society.

    The walk saw policemen, CSOs, and youths marching through the streets of Enugu and visiting several schools to educate the public.

    Speaking during the event, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Nigerian Police National Cybercrime Centre, Force Headquarters, Henry Ifeanyi Uche, lamented that many young people are getting involved in cybercrime, defrauding and scamming numerous individuals.

    “Some of them don’t even know that there are consequences for their actions. I believe that anybody who goes into cybercrime should be able to understand that there are consequences for their actions.

    “So, we’re here basically to tell our youngsters that it’s not good to go into cybercrime,” he said.

    He added that part of the sensitisation was on how people, especially the youth, can stay safe online.

    “This is because it’s a very big issue. You can’t get what you don’t have. It’s only when you understand your right as a citizen and what to do so that you won’t become a victim of online scammers.

    “So many of our citizens don’t even know what to do when confronted with cyber-attacks. So, when you see unsolicited messages, you are not supposed to click on them. You must ensure that you have a very strong password. Some of us who normally use our date of birth, first names, family names etc as passwords should desist because they’re very weak passwords. You should be able to generate complex passwords that will help you stay safe online.

    “Our walk here is simply to tell our people how to wash their cyber hands and practice cyber hygiene. What I mean by all this is observing the security tips as I have already enumerated to protect yourself,” he said.

    Read Also: Defamation: Police oppose appearance of SAN for Dele Farotimi in Court

    Uche, who appreciated the organisers of the event, called on the citizens to join hands in the fight against cybercrime because it is not something the Nigerian police or security agencies can do alone.

    “It requires a collective approach. That’s why we’re working with some non-governmental organisations, who organised this in conjunction with the Nigerian Police Force Cyber Crime. So, we need all hands to be on deck,” the CP said.

    The finance and administration manager of South Saharan Social Development Organization, Udoamaka Okoye, noted that the group with her S4C partners organnised the freedom walk on cybercrime because it had become a very serious issue with teenagers and young adults, some of who are only concentrating attention on how to hack into systems, yahoo boys and those kind of thing.

    “For us, as a civil society organization, we think that our contribution to curbing this menace is to make people aware of the dangers that come with cybercrime. And in line with Nigerian laws, if you are caught, there are punishments for such actions. We’re telling the youth that whatever it is they are doing, they must be careful not to fall a victim,” she said.

  • Sokoto police nab two car theft suspects, recover five vehicles

    Sokoto police nab two car theft suspects, recover five vehicles

    The police in Sokoto have arrested two men, Austin Anthony and Mansur Abubakar, suspected of being members of a car theft syndicate on Sokoto-Birnin Kebbi Road.

    The Police Command also recovered two vehicles with one other suspect arrested in separate operations carried out by the command.

    The suspects were arrested after a complaint which prompted a swift action by the Striking Force Unit of the command to alert police checkpoint on the Birnin Kebbi Road, the Command image maker, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Ahmad Rufa’i, yesterday in Sokoto.

    “The state Police Command received a report from One Adamu Muhammad and Kabiru Shehu all ‘M’ of Badon Barade Area, Sokoto that on the same date at about 0400hrs their vehicles: Corolla LE Ash and Pontiac Vibe were stolen.

    “Upon the report, police checkpoints along Birnin-Kebbi Road were alerted and one of the stolen vehicles was found driven by one of the suspects at Bodinga town heading to Birnin-Kebbi Road.”

    Rufa’i said Anthony was, prior to the latest incident, arrested in possession of three stolen vehicles.

    Read Also: FCT police declare 68-year-old woman missing in Abuja

    “Our operatives from the CID, arrested the suspect in possession of the vehicles and arraigned for the same offence.

    “In the course of investigation, the suspect confessed to the crime and additional two vehicles were recovered and one other suspect arrested,” the command spokesperson said.

    He said the suspects would be charged to court upon completion of investigation. Rufa’i reiterated the command’s 24-hour strategic readiness to weed out crime and criminals in the state. He added: “ We are always alive and alert to ensure lives and property are safe and protected as we urge members of the public to be vigilant and not hesitate to promptly  report any suspicious activity to the nearest police formation.’’

  • Sokoto police nab two suspects of car theft, recover five vehicles

    Sokoto police nab two suspects of car theft, recover five vehicles

    The Sokoto State Police Command has apprehended two suspected members of a car theft syndicate operating along the Sokoto-Birnin Kebbi road.

    In separate operations, the police also recovered two stolen vehicles and arrested an additional suspect.

    The suspects, identified as Austin Anthony and Mansur Abubakar, were taken into custody following a complaint that prompted swift action by the command’s Striking Force Unit. 

    Acting on the tip-off, officers alerted a police checkpoint on the Birnin Kebbi road, leading to the arrests, according to the command’s spokesperson, ASP Ahmad Rufa’i, who confirmed the development on Monday in Sokoto.

    “The state police command received report from One Adamu Muhammad and Kabiru Shehu all ‘M’ of Badon Barade Area, Sokoto that on the same date at about 0400hrs their vehicles: Corolla LE Ash colour and Pontiac Vibe were Stolen.

    “Upon the report, police check point along Birnin-Kebbi road were alerted and  one of the stolen vehicles was found driven by one of the suspects at Bodinga town heading to Birnin-Kebbi road.”

    Rufa’i said Anthony was prior to the latest incident, arrested in possession of 3 stolen vehicles.

    “Our operatives from the CID , arrested the suspect in possession of the vehicles and arraigned or same offence.

    Read Also: Insecurity: Sokoto police consolidate on intelligence approach against crime

    “In the Course of Investigation,  the suspect confessed to the crime and additional two vehicles were recovered and one other suspect arrested”, the command spokesperson said.

    He said the suspects would be charged to court upon completion of investigation as Rufa’i reiterated the command 24hrs strategic readiness to weed off crime and criminals in the state.

    He added: “We are always alive and alert to ensuring lives and property are safe and protected as we  urge members of the public to be vigilant and not hesitate to promptly  report any suspicious activity to the nearest police formation.”