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Tag: Police

  • Police arrest 124 suspected cultists in Edo

    Police arrest 124 suspected cultists in Edo

    The Edo State Police Command said its operatives have arrested 124 suspected cultists and 40 suspected kidnappers within the last three months.

    It said 11 suspects were apprehended for armed robbery and other violent crimes while 46 were arrested with firearms, dangerous weapons and cult paraphernalia.

    Ondo Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, who spoke at a press briefing in Benin City, said the arrest was made possible through coordinated intelligence-driven operations, community support, and inter-agency collaboration.

    Agbonika listed items recovered to include 45 assorted firearms, including AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns and 163 rounds of live ammunition.

    The Edo CP said 62 kidnapped victims were rescued from their abductors, saying a 12-year old girl was killed by her abductors.

    He said, “In various operations, 40 suspected kidnappers were arrested. Eleven other suspects were arrested for armed robbery and other violent crimes.

    Read Also: Retired police officers in Katsina shun nationwide protest

    “Cultism remains a major concern in parts of the state. The Command has intensified its efforts through the ongoing house to house search of cultists and has so far arrested 124 suspected cultists, many of whom have confessed to belonging to proscribed confraternities such as the Maphites, Ayes, NBM, Jurists Confraternity and Eiye.

    “Forty-six (46) suspects were apprehended with firearms in Benin, while others were arrested in Jattu, Auchi, Ekpoma, Igbanke, Ikoro community etc with dangerous weapons and cult paraphernalia. These arrests have helped to significantly reduce the wave of inter-cult violence that recently plagued parts of the state.”

  • Delta man arrested for killing mother of his two sons

    Delta man arrested for killing mother of his two sons

    The Delta State Police Command has arrested 27-year-old Kelvin Obakpororo for the alleged murder of his lover, simply identified as Excellence, who was also the mother of his two young sons.

    Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrest on Sunday in Asaba, the state capital. He said the tragic incident occurred between June 26 and 27, 2025, in the Sapele area of the state.

    According to Edafe, the suspect initially went into hiding after committing the crime but has since been tracked down and taken into custody.

    “You may recall that between June 26 and 27, 2025, social media was flooded with reports about the mysterious murder of a lady named Excellence in Sapele, who was killed by her boyfriend, the father of her two children,” he said.

    “For those demanding justice for Excellence, we want to inform you that the suspected killer is in custody, and we will ensure he is arraigned in court soon,” he added.

    During interrogation, Obakpororo reportedly confessed to the crime, claiming he was under the influence of drugs at the time.

    “She was doing a hook-up. Whenever she came to my house, she would take some clothes and change to meet another man. On that fateful day, we argued; she grabbed a knife, and I picked up a hammer,” he recounted.

    Read Also: Delta school seeks urgent reforms to secure quality education in Nigeria

    He further admitted to hitting her on the forehead three times with the hammer, leading to her death. “I didn’t know she would die, and it wasn’t my clear eyes. I took 200mg of tramadol. It’s a mistake. I’m so sorry,” he said remorsefully.

    Obakpororo also confessed to being involved in Internet fraud (popularly known as Yahoo Yahoo) and expressed regret over killing the mother of his three- and two-year-old sons.

    The Delta State Police Command assured the public that justice will be pursued diligently and the suspect will be charged in court without delay.

  • Adamawa police arrest 567 suspects, rescue 13 trafficked children in three months

    Adamawa police arrest 567 suspects, rescue 13 trafficked children in three months

    The Adamawa State Police Command has arrested a total of 567 suspects in connection with various crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, rape, and drug-related offences over the last three months.

    The state Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo Morris, disclosed this during a quarterly press briefing held on Monday at the police headquarters in Yola. He said the command also rescued 13 children who were allegedly trafficked within and outside the state during the period under review.

    According to CP Morris, the police recovered a cache of weapons from the suspects, including six AK-47 rifles, three pump-action guns, 11 fabricated assault rifles, and various rounds of live ammunition. Other recovered items include three vehicles, five tricycles, four motorcycles, two gas cylinders, computers, mobile phones, and fetish charms.

    The CP identified two major child trafficking suspects as 43-year-old Mrs. Ngozi Abdulwahab of Jambutu in Yola North LGA and 55-year-old Mrs. Uche Okoye of Kabiku in Nnewi, Anambra State. Both women are alleged to be involved in a syndicate that steals and trafficks children from Adamawa to other parts of the country.

    Read Also: Adamawa police arrest man for snatching phone, stabbing victim

    He also revealed that seven members of the notorious youth gang known as “Shilla Boys” were arrested for conducting violent house-to-house robberies in parts of the state.

    In another notable case, the CP said the command arrested a 36-year-old drug dealer, Tukur Adamu, who reportedly murdered a young man over a N50,000 dispute related to the sale of Indian hemp.

    CP Morris reaffirmed the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order, urging residents to support police efforts by reporting suspicious activities.

  • Planned protest by retired police officers diversionary, says PSC

    Planned protest by retired police officers diversionary, says PSC

    • IG orders tight security ahead of action

    The Police Service Commission (PSC) has said the planned protest by retired police officers over unpaid allowances is ill-advised.

    A statement yesterday in Abuja by the commission’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani said: “[The] PSC has noted the ill-advised plan by retired police officers across the nation to embark on a planned protest over issues that are already receiving the attention of relevant government agencies.

    “The commission says the intended protest at a time when there is almost a consensus that the state/condition of some retired police officers deserves immediate consideration and improvement is diversionary and in bad taste.

    “Chairman of the commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (retd.), has at several fora condemned the poor and discriminatory pension scheme for some categories of retired officers and had called for a streamlined police pension scheme.

    “DIG Argungu had also made several interventions in this direction and, till date, had remained an advocate of a democratised police pension scheme.

    “The commission believes that relevant government agencies are currently looking into the obvious disparity to bridge the gap. It advises that the affected Officers should consider the path of dialogue and continuous engagement rather than confrontation.

    “The commission wishes to state that it will at no time deviate from its determined efforts to ensure an improved welfare for police officers, senior or junior, and serving or retired.

    Read Also: IGP orders tight security over planned protest by retired police officers

    “It wishes to advise the drivers of this intended planned protest to review its intentions and return to the negotiating table in the interest of the existing peace in the country. The commission is of the strong belief that the nation can not afford this distraction at this time of our democratic journey.”

    Also, Inspector–General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun yesterday ordered police commissioners across the states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to put security measures in place ahead of the planned protest by retired police officers.

    A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), described attempts by certain individuals to politicize the retirees’ grievances as “disruptive and manipulative”.

    “It is disheartening to observe how certain actors have chosen to politicise a sensitive welfare issue, weaponising the legitimate grievances of our retired colleagues for ulterior motives,” the statement said.

    Adejobi noted that while the agitation for improved pensions, particularly the call for exit from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), is valid and longstanding, some agitators were exploiting the issue to inflame public sentiments and erode public trust in law enforcement institutions.

    The statement, titled: Peaceful Protest by Retired Police Officers: Police Sets Records Straight, Assures of Security, Preservation of Dignity, explained that the police are not opposed to the protest but are committed to ensuring it remains peaceful and respected.

    “The IGP has ordered that the rights of our retired officers who have chosen to protest must be protected, and the protest should serve as a model of dignified expression of grievance,” the statement added.

  • Planned protest by retired police officers, diversionary – PSC

    Planned protest by retired police officers, diversionary – PSC

    The Police Service Commission (PSC), on Sunday described the planned protest by retired police officers as ill- advised. 

    The protest is over issued of unpaid allowances. 

    A statement issued by the PSC Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani said, “PSC has noted the ill-advised plan by retired Police Officers across the nation to embark on a planned protest over issues that are already receiving the attention of relevant Government Agencies.

    “The Commission says the intended protest at a time there is almost a consensus that the state/condition of some retired Police Officers deserve immediate consideration and improvement is diversionary and in bad taste. 

    Read Also: Police probe killing of 300-level student in Rivers

    “Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu, rtd has at several fora condemned the poor and discriminatory pension scheme for some categories of retired Officers and had called for a streamlined Police pension scheme.

    “DIG Argungu had also made several interventions in this direction and till date, had remained an advocate of a democratised Police Pension scheme.

    “The Commission believes that relevant Government Agencies are currently looking into the obvious disparity with a view to bridging the gap. It advises that the affected Officers should consider the path of dialogue and continuous engagement rather than confrontation.

    “The Commission wishes to state that it will at no time deviate from its determined efforts to ensure an improved welfare for Police Officers, senior or junior, and serving or retired. 

    “It wishes to advise the drivers of this intended planned protest to review its intentions and return to the negotiating table in the interest of the existing peace in the country. The Commission is of the strong belief that the nation can not afford this distraction at this time of our democratic journey.”

  • IGP orders tight security over planned protest by retired police officers

    IGP orders tight security over planned protest by retired police officers

    • …warns against misinformation

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed all Commissioners of Police across the country and in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to provide maximum security for the planned peaceful protest by retired police officers.

    Egbetokun, in a statement issued on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, also cautioned against the spread of misinformation surrounding the protest. 

    He noted that some narratives were being deliberately twisted to discredit the federal government and undermine the current leadership of the Nigeria Police Force.

    The IGP further warned against efforts by certain individuals to politicize the grievances of the retirees, describing such attempts as “disruptive and manipulative.”

    He said, “It is disheartening to observe how certain actors have chosen to politicize a sensitive welfare issue, weaponizing the legitimate grievances of our retired colleagues for ulterior motives”.

    Read Also: IGP working towards better pension, retirement benefit, CP Jimoh assures retirees

    According to him, while the agitation for improved pensions particularly the call for exit from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) is valid and longstanding, some agitators are exploiting the issue to inflame public sentiments and erode public trust in law enforcement institutions.

    The statement, titled “Peaceful Protest by Retired Police Officers: Police Sets Records Straight, Assures of Security, Preservation of Dignity,” clarified that the Police are not opposed to the protest but are committed to ensuring it remains peaceful and respected.

    Adejobi noted that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has directed all state Commissioners of Police especially in the FCT and other locations where formal notice has been given to provide adequate security for the protesting retirees and prevent the hijack of the protest by miscreants or political actors.

    “The IGP has ordered that the rights of our retired officers who have chosen to protest must be protected, and the protest should serve as a model of dignified expression of grievance,” he added.

    The Force Headquarters highlighted ongoing efforts by the current Police leadership to address retirees’ welfare through both policy engagement and innovative support mechanisms.

    According to the statement, since 2014, successive IGPs have supported the push to remove the Police from the CPS, but legal and fiscal constraints have limited progress.

    Recognizing these limitations, the present leadership is now pursuing a “dual-track” approach, which includes:

    Exploring internally generated revenue to provide supplementary pension benefits, and mobilizing private sector support for targeted welfare programmes.

    “These interventions are already underway and reflect a broader, holistic strategy to elevate the welfare of our retired personnel—not just through debates but through tangible outcomes,” the Force said.

    The planned peaceful protest is scheduled for Monday, July 21, 2025, primarily in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and other locations where prior notification has been duly given.

    The IGP urged all Police officers to show utmost respect and professionalism in handling the protest.

    “This is more than a directive; it is a test of our institutional maturity and our commitment to dignity and order,” the statement concluded.

    He also warned serving officers against being misled by “those ignorant of the ethics of our profession or intent on causing disruption.”

  • Police probe killing of 300-level student in Rivers

    Police probe killing of 300-level student in Rivers

    The Rivers State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the cult-related killing of Julius Okpor, a 300-level student of Ignatius Ajuru University.

    Okpor, who hailed from Okposi in Ogba-Egbema Local Government Area of Rivers State, was shot dead by suspected members of a rival cult group on Saturday in the Rumuolumeni area of Port Harcourt.

    Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident, stating that the attack occurred around Cecilia Road. According to her, operatives who responded to the distress call rushed the victim to the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), where he was pronounced dead.

    Read Also: AAUA: NANS demands transparent probe into death of murder suspect in police custody

    Preliminary findings indicate the killing is linked to ongoing clashes between rival cult groups in the city.

    “The Rivers State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice,” Iringe-Koko assured.

  • Police condemn officers’ conduct in viral arrest video

    Police condemn officers’ conduct in viral arrest video

    The Zone 2 Police Command has condemned the conduct of some of its operatives caught on tape manhandling a Lagos State University undergraduate, Mercy Attababa.

    Ms Attababa who the operatives allegedly assaulted at the instance of her landlord, Emeka Okoye, was accused of contracting some cultists who allegedly threatened the life of Okoye.

    But on the contrary, the girl had earlier filed a sexual harassment complaint against the landlord with the Lagos State Police Command following alleged threats and indiscretions from Okoye.

    While the Lagos State Police Command was still investigating the case filed last week and looking for Okoye, who was alleged to have fled his residence, the man decided to take policemen from Zone 2 to intimidate Ms Attababa and turn the case against her.

    But the whole incident blew open after video of the unprofessional conduct of the arresting team surfaced online, causing public outcry.

    Reacting to the backlash, the zonal command condemned the conduct of the operatives, assuring that necessary actions would be taken against them.

    It said: “The Police Management at the Zone 2 Command Headquarters, under the leadership of AIG Adegoke M. Fayoade has noted the conduct displayed by officers during an arrest depicted in a viral video.

    Read Also: Presidency slams ADC over Buhari’s burial remarks

    “The arrest in question was initiated following a petition filed against Ms. Mercy Attababa and others by Mr. Emeka Okoye, who accused them of assault and threat to his life.

    “The petitioner asserted that a group of armed individuals, suspected to be cult members invaded his residence on 13th and 14th July, 2025 issuing threats against him and his family, which compelled him to relocate for their safety.

    “Following an inquiry and the collection of her statement, Ms. Mercy Attababa was released to the Lagos State University Student Union Government Welfare Director.

    “The AIG has directed that the case be transferred to the Commissioner of Police Lagos for comprehensive investigation and subsequent reporting.

    “The officers involved in the incident have been identified, and appropriate actions will be taken against them.

    “The command assures members of the public that justice will be transparently served.”

  • Police halt planned Obi birthday rally in Kaduna

    Police halt planned Obi birthday rally in Kaduna

    • Warns of security threat, clash with by-election primaries

    The Kaduna State Police Command has warned against a planned political rally being organised by supporters of former Labour Party (LP) Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, to mark his birthday, citing security concerns and a ban on unauthorised political gatherings.

    In a security advisory issued on Friday night, the Command said it received credible intelligence indicating that criminal elements were planning to infiltrate the rally to incite violence and disrupt public peace.

    The statement, signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, noted that political rallies and gatherings remain suspended across the state until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially lifts the embargo on campaigns.

    “The Command wishes to bring to the attention of the general public that it has received credible intelligence regarding a planned political rally by supporters of Mr. Peter Obi,” the statement read in part.

    It added that the timing of the rally also clashed with party primaries scheduled for the same day by political parties participating in an upcoming bye-election in the state—events which have been formally communicated to the Police in accordance with the law.

    According to the Command, the Obi birthday rally was expected to overlap with areas already designated for the primaries, increasing the risk of clashes, tension, and disruption of the electoral process.

    Read Also: FAAC shares highest allocation of N1.818tr in June

    In view of this, the Command strongly advised organisers to shelve any planned gathering or procession in honour of the former presidential candidate, stressing that public safety must not be compromised.

    “If they wish to hold any form of event in honour of their principal, it is advised that such activities be suspended to ensure public safety and prevent potential hijack by miscreants,” the statement advised.

    The Police warned that any group or individual found violating the advisory would face legal consequences, even as it reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.

    The Command thanked residents for their continued cooperation and urged them to remain law-abiding as the state navigates a sensitive political period.

  • Imo police arrest 2,785 murder, robbery, kidnap suspects in crackdown

    Imo police arrest 2,785 murder, robbery, kidnap suspects in crackdown

    The Imo State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, alongside other Divisions and Formations, has apprehended 2,785 suspects for various crimes, including kidnapping, terrorism, murder, armed robbery, cultism, and child trafficking.

    These operations also resulted in the rescue of 58 kidnapped victims and 42 stolen children, many of whom have been joyfully reunited with their families.

    The operatives also recovered during the operations large cache of arms, ammunition, and explosives, including 2 GPMG, 14 AK-47s, 20 pump-action guns, 4 fabricated rocket launchers, 7 gas-cylinder explosives, locally made hand grenades, assorted rounds of live ammunition, cartridges, Biafran flags, and criminal charms, among others.

    Among the key suspects arrested are Amechi Onyebuchi (38), Ozioma Ihedoro (39), Cyprian Ikpegbunam (50), and Uchenna Opara (30)—notorious members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN.

    Read Also: South-East Investment Company: A Renaissance for Igbo enterprise and Nigeria’s economic future

    Speaking, the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma who confirmed this, said the suspects were responsible for multiple attacks on security formations and public infrastructure in Njaba LGA.

    “Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, in collaboration with other tactical teams, raided an IPOB/ESN camp in Njaba, arrested the suspects, and recovered high-grade weapons and explosives,” he said.

    During interrogation, they confessed to the kidnap and murder of one Emmanuel Oguzie, allegedly on the orders of a wanted ESN commander known as Asari.

    In a separate but related case, two suspected kidnappers, Uche Nwachukwu (24) and Chinonso Ozirim (32), were arrested for abducting one Anayo Iwuoha in his compound at Akabo on June 20, 2025.

    The  syndicate held the victim at Chinonso Ozirim’s residence, collecting a N2.2 million ransom before a joint operation by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and local vigilantes led to his rescue and the arrest of the suspects.

    Also the command apprehended one Wisdom Chinazaekpere Ogbonna (36) of Orlu LGA, suspected to be a member of the Vikings Confraternity. Ogbonna had been on the run for two years following the brutal murder of a young man known as “Pikin,” who was mistakenly identified as a rival cultist.