The Nigeria Police Force has recorded another major breakthrough in its nationwide fight against crime after carrying out a series of successful operations across several states within 24 hours.
The latest security operations led to the arrest of a suspected IPOB/ESN commander, the rescue of a kidnapped farmer in Oyo State, and the capture of a suspected fake soldier believed to have links to bandit activities.
Furthermore, police also arrested suspects connected to rape, illegal firearms possession, and vandalism.
One of the biggest breakthroughs was recorded in Enugu State, where police operatives arrested Chinonso Umeh, popularly known as “Onye Army.” He was identified as a suspected IPOB/ESN commander during a coordinated operation carried out in neighbouring Imo State.
During the operation, security officers recovered one AK-47 rifle, one revolver pistol, several rounds of ammunition, and charms believed to have been used by the suspect.
In another operation within Enugu State, patrol teams arrested Asanya Nnamdi and Abugu Tochukwu after recovering a pump-action gun, 22 live cartridges, a knife, an Allen key, and ₦239,200 suspected to be proceeds of criminal activities.
Both cases have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.
Meanwhile, police officers in Kano State arrested 28-year-old Muhammad Isa, who allegedly posed as a military officer while being linked to bandit operations.
During the arrest, two suspected accomplices identified as Atiku and Alhassan escaped. However, security agencies have launched efforts to track them down.
Recovered items included an AK-47 magazine loaded with 30 rounds of live ammunition, 79 additional rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, military uniforms, military caps, a suspected fake military identity card, ATM cards, a national identity card, and desert boots.
In Oyo State, relief came after police officers, working alongside Amotekun Corps, local hunters, and vigilante groups, rescued kidnapped farmer Owoade Mathew.
The victim was found alive during an extensive bush search operation and was safely reunited with his family.
Investigations into the kidnapping and related armed robbery incidents are still ongoing at the State Criminal Investigation Department in Ibadan.
Furthermore, detectives in Cross River State arrested rape suspect Henry Erim following detailed investigations into the reported incident.
The survivor was taken to Cottage Hospital, Akpet Central, for medical attention.
Police said the suspect reportedly confessed during questioning and remains in custody while investigations continue.
In Ogun State, officers also recorded another success after responding to an armed robbery report in Simawa.
Their investigation led to the arrest of Mubarak Ibrahim and Mohammed Yusuf, who allegedly vandalised electrical infrastructure.
Several stolen electrical conductors and equipment were recovered during the operation.
Meanwhile, police tactical teams in Zamfara State have continued operations following an attack on Geba village.
Security personnel have been deployed to suspected escape routes as efforts continue to arrest those responsible.
Similarly, detectives in Niger State visited the scene of a double homicide in Woko village.
The victims’ bodies were moved to the General Hospital in New-Bussa for autopsy.
A manhunt has also been launched to identify and arrest those behind the killings.
As security challenges continue in different parts of the country, authorities say they remain focused on protecting lives.
