The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a correctional centre escapee and 21 other suspects in a series of coordinated operations across several states, targeting crimes ranging from armed robbery and kidnapping to banditry, impersonation and drug trafficking.
The arrests were carried out by operatives of the Force Special Tactical Squad following intelligence-driven investigations, the police said on Thursday.
Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed that the operations led to the recovery of six firearms, including an LAR rifle, AK-47 and AK-49 rifles, a pump-action gun and an SMG rifle, alongside ammunition.
He added that several other items suspected to be proceeds or tools of crime were also recovered.
“During the operations, a total of 45 exhibits were recovered, including vehicles, motorcycles, illicit drugs and other materials believed to have been used in criminal activities,” Hundeyin said.
Giving details, the police spokesperson explained that along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway, STS operatives intercepted a J5 vehicle conveying 13 brand-new motorcycles, weapons and other incriminating items.
“Further investigations led to the arrest of a 35-year-old suspect, Luke Ifeanyi, in connection with armed robbery and economic sabotage,” he stated.
In the Federal Capital Territory, Hundeyin said operatives arrested a Kuje Custodial Centre escapee, Ayo Abiodun, who is suspected to have carried out a violent robbery against a serving Nigerian Army officer.
In another operation, a 40-year-old suspect, Yusuf Shehu, was arrested in possession of a stolen tricycle.
“Investigations revealed that Shehu was impersonating a police officer. Recovered from him were a police mobile uniform and a police identity card,” Hundeyin said.
The police also disclosed that operatives intercepted a vehicle conveying large quantities of leaves suspected to be cannabis, along with other controlled substances.
According to Hundeyin, four suspects were arrested in Edo State for unlawful possession of prohibited firearms and alleged violent attacks on a community.
“In Lagos and Ogun States, two suspects linked to a car-snatching syndicate were apprehended,” he added.
He further revealed that in Nasarawa State and neighbouring areas, 12 suspects connected to banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling were arrested, with several firearms recovered during the operations.
Hundeyin said investigations into all the cases were ongoing, noting that the suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
Commending the operatives, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, described the operations as a reflection of the Force’s resolve to tackle criminal networks nationwide.
“The IGP reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to protecting lives and property and ensuring public safety,” Hundeyin said.
He also urged members of the public to continue providing credible information to support law enforcement efforts across the country.
