The Nigeria Police Force has recorded another major breakthrough in its nationwide fight against violent crime after rescuing 12 kidnapped victims and arresting 15 suspects in coordinated operations across several states.
The latest operations also led to the recovery of firearms, ammunition, stolen vehicles and military items. However, the successes came as fresh attacks in Plateau and Benue states claimed several lives, highlighting the country’s ongoing security concerns.
Security agencies say intelligence-led operations have continued to put pressure on criminal groups. Meanwhile, police commanders across the country have intensified tactical patrols and joint missions to improve public safety.
According to a Daily Situation Report obtained by The Nation, the operations covered 11 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The report stated that 15 suspects were arrested, 12 kidnapped victims were rescued, two firearms and 60 rounds of ammunition were recovered, while two vehicles were also retrieved.
The latest achievement follows recent security successes, including the rescue of abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State. Furthermore, police say the operations reflect their renewed commitment to tackling kidnapping, armed robbery, illegal arms possession and other violent crimes.
One of the biggest breakthroughs was recorded in Niger State. Police tactical teams, working alongside local vigilantes, confronted heavily armed bandits during a gun battle at Mangoro Village in Mariga Local Government Area.
Following the operation, officers successfully rescued 11 kidnapped victims without injuries. They were later reunited with their families after medical checks and debriefing.
In addition, the Niger State Police Command arrested another suspect linked to a deadly land dispute in Agaie Local Government Area.
The operations also produced major results in Oyo State. Anti-kidnapping officers used technology-driven intelligence to rescue five-year-old Fikayo Gbemiga, who had earlier been abducted.
Police arrested two suspects identified as Adegboye Seyi Sunday, 37, and Adegboye Elijah Adefemi, 25, after raiding their hideout.
Investigators disclosed that the suspects allegedly demanded a ransom of N10 million. However, they reportedly received N1 million before security operatives arrested them.
The child was rescued safely. Meanwhile, investigations have continued as officers search for other gang members who escaped during the operation.
Also in Oyo State, officers arrested a 21-year-old suspect during a stop-and-search operation in Bodija, Ibadan. A locally made pistol, one live cartridge and suspected tramadol were recovered.
Furthermore, police in Kano State arrested a suspected fake soldier during an intelligence-led operation.
Recovered items included a military uniform, an AK-47 magazine loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition, another 29 live rounds, military caps, desert boots and a suspected fake military identity card.
The suspect reportedly identified two accomplices who remain on the run.
In the Federal Capital Territory, operatives attached to the Gwagwalada Division arrested a suspect identified as Success Arison.
A locally made firearm was recovered during the operation. Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the weapon and whether it had been used in previous crimes.
Moreover, Edo State Police Command arrested three suspects allegedly involved in vandalising telecommunications facilities.
Recovered exhibits included a Toyota Yaris, 12 industrial batteries, a cutlass and a dagger.
In Gombe State, detectives intercepted a vehicle transporting two suspected stolen cows and arrested two suspects.
According to the report, one suspect allegedly fractured the hand of a police corporal while resisting arrest before he was subdued.
Police also recorded fresh arrests in Ogun State involving separate cases of child defilement, impersonation and assault.
One of those arrested was reportedly a serving military officer accused of supplying uniforms allegedly used for criminal activities.
However, despite the security gains, violent attacks continued in some parts of the country.
In Plateau State, armed attackers invaded Kum Village in Riyom Local Government Area, killing nine residents before escaping.
Police immediately deployed tactical teams, including personnel from the Police Mobile Force and the Village Crime Reduction Unit, to restore calm and begin investigations.
Similarly, suspected armed herdsmen attacked the Otukpo-Nobi Community in Benue State.
The attack reportedly claimed eight lives and left five others injured.
Commissioner of Police Cletus Nwadiogbu later visited the area with tactical teams. He also supervised efforts to restore order, reopen blocked roads and strengthen security around vulnerable communities.
Meanwhile, joint security operatives responded to another armed attack in Zamfara State after bandits reportedly set a truck ablaze and killed one person in Anka Local Government Area.
A manhunt has since been launched for the fleeing attackers.
Police in Bauchi State have also intensified efforts to rescue another kidnapping victim in Kirfi Local Government Area.
Furthermore, investigations have commenced in all reported cases. Police authorities say efforts have also been intensified to arrest fleeing suspects and dismantle criminal networks operating across the affected states.
