The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Police

  • Confusion as FCT Police Command faults report of rescued man abducted in Abuja

    Confusion as FCT Police Command faults report of rescued man abducted in Abuja

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has described as false report that police has rescued a man abducted in Abuja and has also arrested the kidnapper.

    Report has it that police on Thursday, January 18, rescued an Abuja resident, Segun Akinyemi who was kidnapped while driving out of his house after heavy gun battle.

    According to a statement issued by the Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, the kidnappers were taking Akinyemi from Abuja to Kano State when the police swooped on them.

    He said on January 18, 2024, operatives attached to Kawo Divisional Headquarters, Kaduna, received a distress call of a kidnapping incident from Abuja.

    He said they were alerted that the culprits and their victim were transiting through Kaduna.

    “The Operatives, at about 0010 hours, blocked a grey Toyota Hilux van with registration number Abuja RBC 90 DC, carrying four passengers, the driver inclusive, suspected to be the vehicle conveying the kidnappers and their victim.”

    “On sensing danger and in an effort to escape, one of the kidnappers fired at the policemen, and they responded.

    “In the resulting gun duel, the victim, a certain Segun Akinyemi of block 10, flat 2 FCDA quarters Area 3 Garki, Abuja, was rescued, and one of the kidnappers, a 28-year-old Chinaza Philip of Life Camp Abuja, was arrested,” he said.

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    Hassan said the three other suspects who escaped are being trailed, adding that the vehicle belonging to the victim, two Retay G17 model pistols, one Beretta pistol, ten 9mm P.A.K. ammunition, and five 9mm special ammunition were recovered from the kidnappers.

    He said preliminary inquiries revealed that the victim was abducted on January 17, 2024, by the kidnappers just when he was leaving his home situated at the aforementioned address.

    He said the three escaped suspects were: Chidibere Nwodibo of Life Camp, Abuja, one Auwal surname unknown, and the gang leader whose identity is yet to be ascertained.

    He said: “The Commissioner of Police Kaduna State Command, CP A.D Ali, while commending the operatives for the brave feat, still tasked them to continuously go after criminal elements in the state.

    “He called on the members of the public to avail themselves of security agencies’ hotlines for any distress call requiring a prompt response”.

    However, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh told reporters that the report was not true.

    Adeh while reacting to the development said: “not true please disregard”.

  • Police launch manhunt for killers of Rivers CDC chairman

    Police launch manhunt for killers of Rivers CDC chairman

    Police have launched  a nationwide manhunt for  the killers of Ndidi Livingstone, Chairman , Community Development Committee, Mgbuoshimini community in Obio/Akpo Local Government Area of Rivers.

    The Commissioner of Police in the state , CP Olatunji Disu ,said this  during a visit to the family of the deceased  at their residence in Port Harcourt on Thursday

    The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN)reports that Livingstone was shot to death on Saturday by unidentified assailants after a church service at the Rumueme Waterfront area in Port Harcourt.

    The attackers, who were in a black Sport Utility Vehicle, quickly fled the scene, after firing multiple shots.

    Disu commiserated with the deceased’s family ,assuring that Livingstone’s killers would not go unpunished.

    “We have come to offer our condolences to the family of late Livingstone, who is survived by his wife, children, and other relatives.

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    “I empathise with the pain the family is going through and felt compelled to come and commiserate with them.

    “We will not allow this matter to go unresolved. The killers of Ndidi Livingstone will not go unpunished, and we will soon unravel those behind this dastardly act

    “A manhunt is already underway for the killer squad, and we are edging closer to apprehending them.

    “The police cannot combat crime in isolation, and therefore, we need all the support we can get,” he said.

    Disu emphasised that the police required the support and cooperation of the public to effectively combat crime and criminalities.

    Mr Godspower Livingstone, the elder brother  of the deceased CDC chairman, praised Disu for the visit and appealed to him  to ensure the swift arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators. (NAN)

  • We’re arresting kidnappers, traffic robbers, say Lagos Police

    We’re arresting kidnappers, traffic robbers, say Lagos Police

    • 37 suspects held, 16 firearms, others recovered

    The Police in Lagos have assured residents that kidnapping, armed robbery and cultism would soon become things of the past following the clampdown on perpetrators.

    Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, gave the assurance at his maiden press briefing and parade of suspects held yesterday at the command’s headquarters in Ikeja.

    According to him, within the one month of his headship of the command, 37 suspects had been arrested for various offences, 16 firearms, 72 live cartridges, 75 live ammunition, an expended cartridge, one pistol magazine, six axes, four daggers, five cutlasses, two vehicles, a POS machine, fake vehicle registration plates and various charms recovered.

    Fayoade said that with the establishment of the Tactical Squad to combat kidnapping, the menace would be reduced to the barest minimum.

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    He said an Intelligence Network and Tracking team has been established, adding that the government was making an effort to eradicate the problem.

    “We are also gathering information on areas where kidnapping is very common and with all these efforts, kidnapping will be a thing of the past very soon. Traffic robbery will also be a thing of the past soon. We are making arrests and have picked up more than 30 of them and weapons recovered.

    “Due to the diversion of traffic on  the Third Mainland Bridge, we have people policing the roads especially during peak hours so that there are no chances for them to harass residents.

    “We have enhanced our security apparatus and strategy. We have created more tactical teams. By the time the tactical teams start operating fully, there won’t be worries,” he said.

  • Case for diligent prosecutions

    Case for diligent prosecutions

    SIR: The issue of Police arresting gun runners is not new, but the nabbing of some gun runners by men of the Plateau State Police Command last week stands out. 

    However, Nigerians are clamouring for more. They equally, are making a case for the swift prosecutions or thorough investigations of suspected criminals, post-arrest.

    In recent times, and under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, the Nigeria Police Force’s tireless efforts have been notably effective in apprehending criminals engaged in various nefarious activities, across the length and breadth of the country. 

    The Police Intelligence Department and Tactical Response Team last week arrested about 67 suspects, including those involved in kidnapping, gun-running, one-chance robbery, and banditry. They recovered 5,454 rounds of live ammunition, 300 live cartridges, 50 empty shells of ammunition, 68 rifles, and 33 different ATM cards. 

    The feat, undoubtedly, is a testament to the dedication and strategic approach of law enforcement, showcasing the unwavering commitment of the police force to curbing crimes and maintaining community safety.

    While applauding these crime-busting accomplishments, it is crucial to consider the next steps to ensure justice serves as a deterrent to potential offenders and criminal-minded persons. 

    Beyond arrests, there is a need for thorough police investigations into the root causes and motivations for criminal activities, by Nigerian youths mostly. This will go a long way to curb the perpetration of crimes.

    The delay in the prosecution of arrested suspects is a matter of concern, which is not to undermine the complexities of the legal process, but to emphasize the urgency in delivering justice as prompt adjudication of cases related to criminal activities, is crucial for maintaining public trust in the legal system. 

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    In order to prevent innocent victims from being wrongfully accused, investigating officers should adopt a meticulous approach. Utilizing advanced forensic techniques, gathering credible intelligence, and collaborating with relevant agencies are imperative. 

    A careful examination of identified evidence, coupled with the application of modern technology, will contribute to a more accurate and unbiased investigation process. Regardless of the influence and power a criminal may wield, justice should be made to prevail. 

    It should be glaringly emphasized that no individual, no matter how influential, should be above the law. Law enforcement agencies should remain committed to upholding justice, irrespective of external pressures.

    The fight against crime is not, and will never be a stroll in the park. But it is winnable, especially by the time crime offenders are diligently prosecuted to send a strong message to their ilk.

    •Haroon Aremu,  Abuja.

  • JUST IN: Police kill hoodlum, foil robbery attack in Anambra

    JUST IN: Police kill hoodlum, foil robbery attack in Anambra

    Police in Anambra state have killed a robbery suspect in a gun duel in Ubiahuikwem, Ihiala local government area of the state.

    Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga who confirmed this in a statement on Monday, January 15, said the suspect was neutalized while attempting to rob a middle-aged man of his vehicle at Ubiahuikwem, Ihiala. 

    He said an Automatic Pump Action gun and two motorcycles were recovered from the hoodlums during the clash.

    He said: “Police Special Crack Squad deployed to Ihiala by Anambra State Commissioner of Police weeks before Christmas has foiled an armed robbery operation and neutralised one of the hoodlums.

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    “The Crack Squad which works with the local vigilante had restored calm in the ancient city making it possible for Ihiala sons and daughters who trooped in from the Diaspora and elsewhere to enjoy the  festive season.

    “The encounter with the gunmen occurred in the night of 12 January, 2024 as they attempted to rob a middle-aged man of his vehicle at Ubiahuikwem, Ihiala. 

    “On sighting the Squad the gunmen who operated on two motorcycles opened fire on the Police. Operatives professionally engaged them to avoid hitting the would-be victim of the armed robbery who then zoomed off from the scene.

    “One Automatic Pump Action Gun and two motorcycles were recovered from the hoodlums.

    “The Commissioner of Police who expressed satisfaction with the tremendous work the Police Squad has done charged them not to relent in flushing out all criminal elements out of Ihiala  and neighbouring communities like Isseke, Lilu, Orsumoghu and Azia. 

    “He promised continuous logistics support to the Squad to ensure it fulfils its mandate.”

  • Firm donates traffic booths to police

    Firm donates traffic booths to police

    CWAY Group, a leading player in water, food and beverage industry, has donated 50 units of police traffic booths to the Lagos State Command of the Nigeria Police.

    This is aimed at contributing its quota to decongesting traffic in Lagos and enhancing the working conditions and safety of officers.

    The event, held at the command headquarters in Ikeja, attracted top officials of the Force, management and workers of CWAY Group and other stakeholders in security and transport in the state.

    Deputy Marketing Director, CWAY, Mr. Samuel O. Akinrimisi, said the gesture was also in furtherance of the firm’s corporate social responsibility to foster meaningful relationships and contribute positively to the community.

    “In recognition of the challenging conditions faced by our traffic wardens, especially within the police, who tirelessly labour amid the bustling and often challenging traffic in Lagos State, CWAY Group has decided to extend a helping hand,” he said.

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    He said the traffic booths would provide shelter to officers during adverse weather conditions, ensure their safety amid reckless driving behaviour on the roads and promote a sense of appreciation and support through the distribution of the firm’s products.

    “We believe in partnerships and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives that go beyond our business interests. The Nigeria Police deserves this extension of love, and we are proud to play our part in contributing to their well-being,” he said.

    Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adegoke Fayoade Mustapha, thanked the firm, saying the booths would play a crucial role in managing traffic and reducing the time spent by the public on the roads.

    He said the booths would be used efficiently to manage the flow of traffic.

    He expressed the readiness of the command to work closely with organisations for the security and development of the state.

  • Police advisory

    Police advisory

    The Ogun State Police Command has advised the general public especially those who lost their motorcycles to theft or abandoned around the city to report at ImasayiDivision for identification and claim within 14 days.

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    The motorcycles are: Two  unregistered Bajaj; a motorcycle with number AKM 018 VK;one Bajaj with number GD 436 Q; two  Haojue with numbers QP 268 LND and QD 390 AKM and one Commuter with number 320 EKY, a statement by Omolola Outola, Poloce Public Relations Officer said. 

  • Rivers police kill two notorious cult leaders in gun duel

    Rivers police kill two notorious cult leaders in gun duel

    The Rivers state police command has overpowered gunmen identified as cultists in a gun duel, killing a wanted cult leader, identified as Silas Oderereke, and his accomplice during a shoot-out in the Oderereke community, Ahoada West local government area of the state.

    The command confirmed that Oderereke, also known as ‘general’ was the leader of the Greenlanders’ cult group in the Ubie clan in Ahoada West and was on the run for the past four years.

    Spokesperson of the State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the death of the cultists in a statement she issued in Port Harcourt on Sunday, January 14.

    Iringe-Koko, a Superintendent of Police explained that the notorious cult leader and his gang were involved in armed robbery, land grabbing, unauthorized sales of buildings, and brutal attacks on those who dared to stop them.

    She said: “On January 11, 2024, the police received information about Oderereke’s gang’s robbery operation, which also involved vandalizing the property of the late monarch, Eze Robinson O. Robinson.

    “Responding swiftly, the police chased the criminals out of town. However, the defiant ‘General’ rallied his gang and launched an attack on a community-owned tank farm in Oderereke, intending to loot its contents.

    “It was during this sabotage attempt that the police managed to apprehend the gang. Silas Oderereke and one other member of his gang opened fire on the police team, leading to an exchange of gunfire. In the shootout, Oderereke and his accomplice were neutralized while others sustained injuries.

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    “Two other clan leaders, Danger-boy and 2-Man, who frequently collaborated with Oderereke, managed to escape and are currently at large.

    “Upon searching the gang’s hideout, the police discovered a G3 Rifle and nineteen 7.62x51mm ammunition.”

    The state police image maker added: “Further investigations uncovered a camp Oderereke had established between Oderereke and Olokuma communities.

    “This camp served as a base for the cult leader and his numerous followers, from where they launched robbery attacks on innocent members of neighbouring communities.

    “The affected communities expressed their relief and shared accounts of residents who had relocated to Port Harcourt due to the mayhem caused by the cult group.”

    The State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, commended the operatives for their neutralizing the hoodlums.

     Disu warned cultists and other criminal gangs to change their ways or be ready to face the law, saying the command under his leadership would make the state unbearable for them.

  • Police arrest two over murder of Ondo socialite

    Police arrest two over murder of Ondo socialite

    The Ondo State Police Command said it has arrested two persons in connection with the alleged killing of a socialite, Oladoyinbo Sunday.

    The Nation had reported that Oladoyinbo Adebayo Sunday popularly known as Saybayo was dumped naked on the street of Akure after he reportedly slumped and died.

    Sunday’s lifeless body was found in Ijapo Estate in Akure, the Ondo State capital, on December 10, 2023, by policemen.

    In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs Funmilayo Odunlami, the suspects were arrested through intelligence gathering by the state command.

    The PPRO said: “The SWAT team through intelligence-led policing apprehended one Atinuke Adeniyi aged 29 years who claimed she and the deceased were involved in a romantic affair and that on the day before the corpse was dumped, she and the deceased made out in a brothel in Ijapo, after which the deceased started convulsing and out of fear, she abandoned him and quietly left the room.

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    “The suspect led the police team to the brothel where one Adeojo Ilesanmi aged 50 years, the owner of the brothel, was arrested. He confessed to having taken the corpse to the scene where it was found with claims that he was afraid when he realized the deceased died in his brothel.”

    Odunlami said the probe was still in progress and the suspects would be charged in court after the investigation

  • Police set for 14th Biennial games in Ibadan

    Police set for 14th Biennial games in Ibadan

    The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), has commenced intensive plans towards its 14th Biennial Games, scheduled to hold from 25th February to 2nd March 2024, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

    According to a statement issued on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi: “Sequel to the approval of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the Force Sports Officer, CP Patrick Atayero, and heads of various committees are expected to converge in Ibadan from Friday 12th January to Sunday 14th January 2024 for meetings and assessments of facilities, in conjunction with the Oyo State Government’s team to perfect the arrangement for a successful sports festival in Oyo State.

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    “The last edition, 13th Biennial Police Games, was held in uyo, Akwa Ibom State from 23rd to 30th of November, 2023”.