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Tag: Police

  • We’re committed to equipping police, security agencies to tackle insecurity – Tinubu

    We’re committed to equipping police, security agencies to tackle insecurity – Tinubu

    …charges new police academy cadets to uphold integrity, professionalism 

    …says reforms prioritise modern equipment, training, welfare

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equipping the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies with modern tools, advanced training and sustained logistical support to combat insecurity nationwide.

    Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, the President delivered the assurance on Saturday at the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the Regular Course 7/2019 Cadets of the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil, Kano.

    Addressing senior government officials, security chiefs, traditional rulers and thousands of families in attendance, Tinubu described the graduation ceremony as “a momentous milestone” and a testament to the country’s progress in strengthening its security architecture.

    According to a statement issued by Special Adviser to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, the President applauded the academy’s evolution, noting significant improvements in infrastructure, academic standards and training quality, leading to its establishment as a fully accredited degree-awarding institution. 

    He commended patriotic citizens whose contributions helped mould a new generation of officers “equipped with the knowledge, discipline and values needed to secure the nation.”

    He restated that his administration is focused on building a modern, people-centred police force anchored on integrity, accountability, professionalism and respect for human rights.

    “Our vision remains clear, to raise a Police Force that is well educated, well trained and fully equipped to manage internal security with dignity and fairness,” the President said.

    Tinubu praised the academy’s management for aligning with ongoing police reforms, emphasising the need for intelligence-driven and community-oriented policing capable of earning public trust.

    The President charged the newly commissioned cadets to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct.

    “You are not just law enforcers; you are guardians of our collective security and well-being. The nation expects you to serve with honour, fairness and selfless dedication,” he said.

    The President stressed that the cadets must treat every citizen with dignity, uphold the rule of law and maintain exemplary character both on and off duty. 

    He assured that their welfare and career development would remain a priority for the Federal Government.

    Tinubu also noted that the administration is tackling the root causes of insecurity by promoting economic growth, social cohesion and inclusive development across the country, alongside direct investments in security agencies.

    He paid tribute to the families of the graduating cadets for their sacrifice and support, which he said had helped nurture disciplined and patriotic officers.

    As the ceremony ended, the President urged Nigerians to stay united in the pursuit of national security and prosperity.

    “Let us look to the future with hope and determination; together, we can build a Nigeria that is secure, just and prosperous for all,” he said.

  • Police dismantle kidnapping, robbery syndicates in Imo, arrest 10 suspects

    Police dismantle kidnapping, robbery syndicates in Imo, arrest 10 suspects

    The Imo State Police Command has arrested more than ten suspects linked to kidnapping, armed robbery, and cult-related activities in various parts of the state.

    In a series of coordinated operations carried out by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, police operatives dismantled multiple criminal syndicates, rescued kidnapped victims, and recovered an assortment of weapons, including three pump-action guns, two AK-47 rifles, a locally made pistol, 31 rounds of ammunition, and 37 live cartridges.

    Among those apprehended were Odinaka Ekwebelem, Ejike Sunday, and Chinedu Duru, who allegedly abducted a young man at Faith Glorious Assembly Church, Awo-Omamma, on November 16, 2025.

    Two assault rifles were recovered from them.

    Police spokesman Henry Okoye confirmed the arrests and added that operatives also detained 26-year-old Frank Onyemaechi and his 24-year-old wife, Chidimma, after disturbing images of victims were found on their phone, and they attempted to conceal a weapon.

    Read Also: FCC boss Oladele lauds Tinubu’s massive police, Army recruitment drive

    “A locally made pistol was also recovered, and his wife, Chidimma, was trying to hide the weapon when she was arrested,” he said

    He said that in another operation, two robbery suspects, Okon Uket, 25, and Uzoma Ezugo, 25, were arrested while one driver was tragically killed during a shootout with the police in Ohaji LGA.

    Speaking further, Okoye said   three suspects who confessed to being members of the NBM cult group were arrested in Nchoko, Oru-East,

    He said that the suspects would be arraigned in court after completing the investigations.

  • Hostage-swap report between villagers and bandits in Katsina communities false — Police

    Hostage-swap report between villagers and bandits in Katsina communities false — Police

    The Police Command in Katsina State has dismissed as false the social media reports claiming that bandits and some communities engaged in a hostage-swap arrangement in Safana Local Government Area.

    The command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO) DSP Abubakar Aliyu, on Friday in Katsina made the denial in a statement issued on Friday in Katsina.

    “The Katsina State Command is aware of fake news making the rounds in social media.

    “The news is alleging that bandit groups and villagers in Safana Local Government, specifically in Babban Duhu, Sabon Birni, and Babanli villages, have engaged in the swapping of hostages.

    “The reports appeared to stem from a claim that bandits kidnapped some villagers from the above‑mentioned villages.

    “The villagers in turn abducted relatives of the bandits, forcing the bandits into a hostage swap,” he said according to the report.

    However, investigations have confirmed that “no such incident occurred in Babban Duhu, Sabon Birni, or Babanli.

    “The command, therefore, wishes to state in the strongest terms, that those rumours are baseless, false, and malicious.

    “A thorough investigation, including intelligence verification and coordination with community leaders, has found no evidence of any hostage exchange between bandits and villagers in Babban Duhu, Sabon Birni, or Babanli.

    “The spread of such misinformation is dangerous, as it inflames public fear, erodes trust in institutions, and could endanger lives,” he said.

    The PPRO stressed that the command remained committed to protecting lives and property, and appealed to all stakeholders to cooperate with the police and other security agencies in maintaining peace and security in the state.

    He urged people to remain calm and vigilant, and to refrain from sharing unverified information.

    Aliyu further urged the people to report any credible information to the nearest police station or make use of the following emergency numbers: 08156977777, 07072722539 and 09022209690, for prompt response.

    (NAN)

  • Akure youths condemn killing of Police Inspector, call for justice

    Akure youths condemn killing of Police Inspector, call for justice

    The Akure Youths Coalition has condemned the killing of a police inspector by suspected ticket touts at Arakale in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    The officer, whose identity is yet to be officially released, was reportedly attacked on Wednesday while attempting to arrest a commercial tricycle operator waiting to obtain a daily ticket.

    Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two suspects, identified as Shina Jacob, 25, and Felix Olalekan, 32. Both are currently being investigated over their alleged involvement in the incident.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the coalition denounced the act, stressing that those responsible do not represent the character or values of Akure youths. The statement was signed by the group’s president, Tuyi Adekanbi.

    According to the group, the conduct of the perpetrators is a stain on their own reputation, and they must face the full weight of the law without implicating the integrity of the wider youth population.

    Read Also: No Boko Haram suspects held in Lagos, CP Jimoh

    “We fiercely repudiate every insinuation, commentary, or narrative attempting to lump these deviants together with the peace-loving, forward-thinking, and civically responsible youths of Àkúré. We will not permit anyone – whether out of ignorance, prejudice, or deliberate mischief – to weaponize this tragic incident as a tool to malign our collective reputation,” it said. 

    The coalition reaffirmed that Akure youths remain committed to peace, order, and community development.

    “Àkúré youths stand firmly for order, progress, and community harmony. Any narrative suggesting otherwise is malicious, intellectually dishonest, and dead on arrival,” the statement added. 

    The group also assured residents that normalcy has returned to the affected areas, adding that Akure youths will continue to support lawful processes and cooperate with security agencies to prevent future occurrences.

    The group explained that as investigations into the killing continue, it urged the security agencies and media to avoid sensationalism and rely only on verified information.

    “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased officer and to the Nigeria Police Force. We share in their pain and call for a thorough, transparent, and diligent investigation to ensure that all culprits are identified, apprehended, and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” it further stated. 

  • Police Inspector dies after attack by ticket touts in Ondo

    Police Inspector dies after attack by ticket touts in Ondo

    The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the death of a police inspector who was allegedly attacked by ticket touts along Arakale Road in Akure South Local Government Area.

    The officer, whose identity is yet to be officially released, was reportedly assaulted on Wednesday while attempting to arrest a commercial tricycle operator waiting to collect a daily ticket.

    Sources said a disagreement erupted between the inspector and the ticket touts during the attempted arrest, leading to the officer being stabbed in the back with a broken bottle.

    The wounded inspector was immediately taken to the police hospital for treatment, and the situation initially appeared calm. However, tension resurfaced later in the evening after news emerged that he had died from his injuries.

    A source told The Nation that some of the deceased officer’s colleagues returned to the scene to make arrests, during which nearby shops were allegedly attacked, and individuals who were not present during the earlier altercation were picked up.

    Confirming the incident in a statement on Thursday, Police Public Relations Officer Olayinka Ayanlade said two suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing.

    Ayanlade, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, said the inspector was carrying out his lawful duties when the attack occurred, adding that the incident prompted an immediate and coordinated response from the command.

    “To set the record straight, the Command confirms that an incident occurred in the early hours of yesterday involving a police officer who was performing lawful duty in the said area.

    “An altercation ensued between the officer and some recalcitrant individuals, during which the officer was tragically stabbed.

    “Acting swiftly, the Commissioner of Police deployed a team of operatives to the scene, resulting in the arrest of two suspects directly connected to the incident,” he said.

    He added, “They include Shina Jacob ‘m’ aged 25 years and Felix Olalekan ‘m’ aged 32 years. The injured officer was also rescued and rushed to the hospital; however, despite all efforts, the police inspector sadly passed away while receiving treatment.”

    Ayanlade explained that a follow-up operation conducted later in the night formed part of the command’s ongoing efforts to rid the state of violent criminal elements and avert further breaches of public peace.

    He emphasised that the command would not condone any form of human rights abuse by its personnel, while warning that anyone who assaults security operatives in the line of duty would face the full weight of the law.

    The police spokesman, however, said the arrested suspects would be charged in court upon the conclusion of the police’s investigations. 

  • Police, PSC launch joint committee to fast-track recruitment of 30,000 officers

    Police, PSC launch joint committee to fast-track recruitment of 30,000 officers

    The Police Service Commission (PSC) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have inaugurated a high-powered joint ad-hoc committee to commence the immediate recruitment of 30,000 new police personnel, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to strengthen national security.

    The committee was formally launched by PSC Chairman DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (rtd) at the Commission’s headquarters in Jabi, Abuja. 

    Its mandate is to design and oversee a seamless, transparent, and merit-driven recruitment process, ensuring integrity and adherence to established standards.

    Representing the PSC Chairman, DIG (Bar) Taiwo Lakanu (rtd), FDC, described the collaboration as crucial for the success of the exercise and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to fairness and due process.

    CP Edwin Eloho of the NPF’s Department of Training and Development, representing the Inspector-General of Police, highlighted the recruitment’s importance in enhancing the operational capacity of the police and assured full cooperation with the PSC.

    The initiative forms part of the Federal Government’s broader effort to improve the police-to-citizen ratio and bolster the nation’s response to evolving security challenges.

    The PSC oversees the appointment, promotion, discipline, and dismissal of police officers, excluding the Inspector-General of Police, while the NPF remains the country’s primary law enforcement agency, tasked with preventing and detecting crime, protecting lives and property ensuring public safety.

  • Repentant cultists surrender arms to police in Ondo

    Repentant cultists surrender arms to police in Ondo

    The Ondo State Police Command has achieved a major peace breakthrough in Ondo town, the headquarters of Ondo West Local Government Area, as several repentant cultists voluntarily surrendered their weapons to the police.

    Ondo town had, in recent months, recorded violent clashes among rival cult groups in a series of supremacy battles that left casualties in their wake.

    The latest truce, driven by a disarmament initiative launched by the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, forms part of broader efforts to curb violent crime and restore stability in communities long troubled by cult-related attacks.

    The command’s spokesman, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, who disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Akure, said the initiative reflects the police command’s proactive strategy to rid the state of miscreants and reinforce public safety.

    Ayanlade revealed that some of the individuals who surrendered had been on the police watchlist for their roles in previous violent clashes, including incidents that claimed at least eight lives in Ondo city.

    “The police will intensify efforts to encourage others still in hiding to surrender,” he said.

    He explained that the intervention brought two long-feuding factions together for reconciliation, with both groups agreeing to end years of hostility and embrace peaceful coexistence.

    According to him, several repentant members expressed relief at exiting the cult lifestyle, admitting that fear of arrest had forced many to flee the state until the disarmament initiative provided a safe and supervised path for their return.

    During the exercise, the police recovered 17 arms and 12 rounds of ammunition, including locally fabricated weapons and Beretta pistols – representing a significant step toward reducing the circulation of illegal firearms in the area.

    Ayanlade said CP Lawal commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Ekimogun youths, and the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Adesimbo Kiladejo, for their support in facilitating the disarmament process.

    He urged others still in hiding to surrender, warning that those who continue to engage in criminal activities would be tracked down and prosecuted.

    The police spokesman added that CP Lawal, alongside senior officers and members of the Ondo Ekimogun Youths under the “End Miscreants in Ondo” initiative, personally supervised the arms surrender.

    He said all repentant individuals will be enrolled in counselling and mentorship programmes as part of their rehabilitation, reaffirming that anyone who renounces cultism, surrenders arms, and demonstrates good conduct will be reintegrated into society.

    The command reiterated its commitment to strengthening community engagement and sustaining people-oriented policing to ensure lasting peace and security across Ondo state.

  • Ondo varsity female student drugged, raped by colleague

    Ondo varsity female student drugged, raped by colleague

    • Two suspects arrested

    Ondo State Police Command has arrested two students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) over the alleged rape of a 20-year-old female undergraduate (name withheld).

    One of the suspects, identified as Tom Samuel, allegedly lured the victim to a residence on Cele Street in Akungba on November 21, last year, where she was reportedly drugged after consuming an alcoholic drink served to her.

    Samuel’s arrest led to the arrest of the second accomplice.

    The Nation gathered that a medical report from General Hospital, Iwaro-Oka, confirmed that the victim was sexually assaulted, following tests conducted on November 22, last year.

    A video obtained by reporters also showed friends arriving at the scene to find the young woman unconscious beside Samuel.

    Confirming the incident in a statement yesterday, Police spokesperson Deputy Superintendent of Police Olayinka Ayanlade said the Commissioner of Police has ordered the immediate transfer of the case to the Gender Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for  investigation.

    Read Also: ‘How alleged terrorists’ negotiator, Mamu got N50million for his efforts,’ DSS official tells court

    Ayanlade said preliminary findings indicated the involvement of a female friend, Queen Sodo, who allegedly supplied the drug-laced drink and invited the male accomplice.

    “Preliminary investigation reveals that the victim was invited to the residence of her long-time friend, Queen Sodo, 19, also a student of the same school.

    “Trusting their long friendship from secondary school to university, the victim accepted a drink provided by her friend, which was later found to be laced with drugs, causing her to lose consciousness,” he said.

    According to Ayanlade, Sodo allegedly left the room after the victim became incapacitated, summoned her male co-conspirator, and stood guard while the assault took place.

    He added in the statement that the victim was reportedly rescued by a neighbour who heard unusual noises and found her unconscious, naked, and in a compromising position with the male suspect.

    “She was rushed to a hospital for urgent medical care and later referred to a specialist hospital, where she is receiving treatment and recuperating,” the police spokesperson said.

    Ayanlade confirmed that both suspects have confessed to their roles in the crime. Investigators also recovered key exhibits, including the bottle of the drug-laced drink, which will undergo toxicology testing.

    “The suspects are in lawful custody and will be transferred to the Gender Desk Office, Akure, for further discreet investigation and prosecution,” he added.

    However, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, assured the public that the command remains committed to bringing perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence to justice, regardless of their relationship with victims.

    He urged parents and guardians to educate their children on the importance of caution in relationships, warning that even long-term friendships can be manipulated for criminal purposes.

  • Police launch manhunt for community leader, accomplices over murder of three youths in Delta

    Police launch manhunt for community leader, accomplices over murder of three youths in Delta

    The Delta State Police Command has activated a full-scale manhunt for Chief Jerry Nkeeshe, the Owelle of Onicha-Olona, and all members of the armed group responsible for the deadly attack that claimed the lives of three innocent youths on Monday, November 24, 2025, near ‘B’ Division, Asaba, the state capital.

    Police spokesman SP Bright Edafe said preliminary investigations revealed that the said Chief allegedly led a group of vigilantes and suspected cult members, some brazenly disguised in Army camouflage, to a parcel of land at Okwe community along the Asaba–Onitsha Road in a deliberate attempt to lay claim to the property.

    He said the group proceeded to enforce an unauthorised quit notice, without a court order.

    Edafe indicated that their illegal operation encountered resistance, resulting in a violent confrontation.

    He noted the armed group allegedly opened fire indiscriminately, causing severe gunshot injuries to three youths, who were later confirmed dead while receiving treatment at the hospital.

    The spokesman said in response to the criminal attack, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, immediately ordered the deployment of tactical teams, intelligence operatives, and specialised investigators to track, identify, and arrest all individuals involved.

    The CP has condemned the act as an unprovoked, reckless, and brazen display of lawlessness that will not be tolerated under any guise.

    He called on residents of Onicha-Olona, Asaba, and neighbouring communities to support the ongoing manhunt.

    He emphasised that the Command would not relent until every perpetrator of the violence, irrespective of title, influence, or backing, is apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law.

    Abaniwonda further reassured the public that normalcy had been restored in the area, noting that sustained surveillance, intelligence-led patrols, and coordinated search operations are in progress to prevent any further breakdown of law and order.

    The CP said, “The Delta State Police Command remains steadfast in protecting the lives and property of all residents.

    “Members of the public are encouraged to report any sighting, suspicious movements, or credible information about the suspects through the Command’s dedicated emergency lines: 08036684974.”

  • Police to Kogi residents: Ignore false alarms, reports of attacks by bandits

    Police to Kogi residents: Ignore false alarms, reports of attacks by bandits

    The Kogi Police Command has urged residents to disregard false alarms and reports circulating on social media regarding imminent attacks by bandits in the eastern part of the state

    The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Kankarofi, gave the charge in a statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, CSP William Ovye-Aya on Monday in Lokoja.

    “Such reports are unverifiable and did not constitute any elements of truth.

    “The command has taken security matters very seriously and has put measures in place to ensure the safety of lives and property in the state,” he said.

    The commissioner said that he has ordered the deployment of tactical teams, including Police Mobile Force, counter terrorism, Quick Response and intelligence units, to strategic locations across the state…

    Read Also: ADC faults Tinubu’s police redeployment directive

    “Additional security assets have also been deployed to carry out operations and meet any unforeseen situations in critical areas.

    “We, hereby, urge the public to remain calm and verify information through official sources before sharing.

    “This is necessarily because false claims can cause unnecessary panic and fear among residents, ” he said.

    Kankarofi, however, appealed to the residents to work together with the police and other security agencies to keep the state safe.

    He added, “If you notice anything suspicious, please report without hesitation. Security is a shared responsibility.”

    (NAN)