By Joy Onu
The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a string of operational successes across several states, with security operatives arresting suspected criminals, recovering illegal firearms and ammunition, rescuing a kidnapped farmer and intensifying investigations into a number of violent crimes reported within the last 24 hours.
The operations, carried out in Enugu, Kano, Oyo, Ogun, Zamfara, Niger and Cross River states, formed part of the force’s sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks, curb violent crimes and improve public safety through intelligence-led policing and coordinated security operations.
One of the major breakthroughs came from the Enugu State Police Command, where operatives arrested Chinonso Umeh, also known as “Onye Army,” during an intelligence-driven operation conducted in neighbouring Imo State.
Police described Umeh as a suspected notorious member of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). Officers reportedly recovered an AK-47 rifle, a revolver pistol, assorted ammunition and charms during the operation. Detectives at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) have commenced further investigations.
In a separate operation within Enugu State, patrol officers intercepted and arrested two suspects, Asanya Nnamdi and Abugu Tochukwu, during routine security patrols.
According to police, a search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of a pump-action gun, 22 live cartridges, a knife, an Allen key and ₦239,200 in cash suspected to be connected to criminal activities. The suspects are currently being investigated by the SCID.
In Kano State, police operatives arrested a 28-year-old suspect, Muhammad Isa, over alleged involvement in banditry and impersonation of military personnel.
Police said two other suspects, identified as Atiku and Alhassan, escaped during the operation and are currently being tracked.
Recovered exhibits included an AK-47 magazine loaded with 30 rounds of live ammunition, an additional 79 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two pairs of military uniforms, three military caps, a suspected fake military identity card, a National Identity Card, ATM cards and a pair of desert boots.
Investigators believe the recovery could provide useful leads in ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal groups operating under the guise of security personnel.
In Oyo State, coordinated security efforts led to the successful rescue of a farmer, Owoade Mathew, who had been kidnapped by suspected criminals. The operation involved police officers working alongside members of the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and hunters who carried out extensive bush-combing operations before locating the victim.
Police confirmed that the farmer was rescued unharmed and reunited with his family, while investigations into the kidnapping and a related armed robbery case have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Ibadan.
Detectives in Ogun State also recorded a breakthrough while investigating an armed robbery incident in Simawa.
The investigation led officers to the Ogere Trailer Park Market, where two suspects, Mubarak Ibrahim and Mohammed Yusuf, were arrested over the alleged vandalism and theft of electrical infrastructure.
Police recovered stolen electrical conductors and other equipment believed to have been removed from public facilities. Authorities said the suspects would be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.
In a similar development, security has been reinforced in Zamfara State following a bandit attack on Geba village. Police said tactical teams, working in collaboration with other security agencies, have been deployed to strategic locations and suspected escape routes in an effort to intercept the attackers and prevent further attacks. Detectives attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Gusau have commenced investigations into the incident.
In Niger State, police have launched an investigation into the killing of two persons at Woko village. Detectives who visited the scene evacuated the victims’ bodies to the General Hospital in New-Bussa for autopsy, while efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack. The investigation is being handled by the State Criminal Investigation Department in Minna.
The Cross River State Police Command also announced the arrest of Henry Erim over an alleged rape incident after detectives tracked him to his hideout. Police said the survivor was immediately taken to Cottage Hospital, Akpet Central, for medical examination and treatment, while the suspect allegedly made confessional statements during interrogation. He remains in police custody as investigations continue.
The latest operations highlight the police’s renewed focus on intelligence-driven policing, inter-agency collaboration and rapid response to security threats across the country.
Police said detectives across the affected state commands have continued investigations into the various cases, with efforts focused on apprehending fleeing suspects, uncovering possible accomplices and ensuring that all those found culpable are brought to justice.
