The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a series of operational successes across several states, including the neutralisation of bandits, rescue of a kidnapped victim, arrests of suspected criminals and recovery of firearms and illicit drugs.
In Sokoto State, police tactical teams foiled an alleged bandit attack on Yadiya Village on September 6, following credible intelligence of an impending assault. Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the VCRU engaged the attackers in a gun duel, while subsequent bush-combing operations led to the neutralisation of four suspected bandits.
The police recovered an AK-47 rifle, one magazine and 28 rounds of live ammunition. No casualties were recorded among security personnel or villagers.
In Rivers State, police operatives rescued 41-year-old Kingsley Aleaga, who had reportedly spent four days in captivity. The rescue operation was conducted at Ogale, Eleme Local Government Area, following intelligence on his abduction. Three suspects were arrested, while quantities of suspected hard drugs were recovered.
Meanwhile, in Niger State, police operatives engaged armed bandits who attacked Pelegi Community in Mashegu Local Government Area. One bandit was neutralised during the gun battle, while five victims were reportedly abducted. Police said efforts were ongoing to rescue the victims and apprehend the fleeing attackers.
In Kebbi State, personnel of the Police Mobile Force came under heavy attack from armed terrorists while on routine patrol. The ensuing gun battle lasted more than two hours, with the police reporting that several attackers were neutralised while others fled with gunshot wounds and casualties. Reinforcements were subsequently deployed to restore normalcy.
In Abia State, four suspects were arrested over an alleged attempt to negotiate the sale of a one-year-four-month-old child. Police operatives rescued the child and placed the minor in protective custody as investigations continue.
Anambra State also recorded a major anti-drug operation, with Rapid Response Squad operatives arresting five suspected major illicit drug dealers at a criminal hideout in Umuota Village, Obosi. Large quantities of suspected cannabis sativa, methamphetamine, cocaine and Colorado were recovered, alongside other exhibits and ₦19,000 cash.
In Katsina State, joint police and local tactical teams engaged heavily armed bandits who attacked communities across Bakori Local Government Area. The operation forced the attackers to retreat and restored normalcy to the affected communities.
In Kwara State, police arrested two suspects allegedly involved in kidnapping and banditry. The operation resulted in the recovery of ₦770,000, two Infinix smartphones, a locally made bulletproof vest and a power bank.
A separate operation in Offa led to the arrest of 25-year-old Afolabi Ayomide after he was reportedly found threatening residents with a firearm at Avalon Hotel. Police recovered a locally crafted Beretta pistol loaded with six rounds of live ammunition.
In Cross River State, police operatives rescued two severely injured victims who had allegedly been assaulted over an unconfirmed allegation of stealing. The victims were taken to the General Hospital, Calabar, for medical treatment, while the principal suspect was arrested for investigation.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, said the various operations demonstrated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to protecting lives and property and tackling violent crime, kidnapping, banditry, drug trafficking and other criminal activities across the country.
Investigations into the incidents are ongoing in the respective state commands.
