Police Bust Kidnap, Armed Robbery Syndicates, Arrest 50 Suspects, Recover Weapons Across Nigeria
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have recorded major breakthroughs in the fight against violent crime, arresting 50 suspects linked to kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, and terrorism, while recovering a cache of weapons and other incriminating items in coordinated operations across the country.
The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) Headquarters in Guzape, Abuja, describing the achievements as a testament to the police’s “relentless efforts in the pursuit of justice.”
According to him, the operations, conducted between January and April 2026, led to the recovery of 17 rifles, 111 rounds of live ammunition, magazines, communication devices, vehicles, and other exhibits linked to criminal activities.
“Today is yet another day that serves as testimonial of the endless and relentless efforts of the Nigeria Police Force in the pursuit of justice and apprehension of criminals,” Placid said.
Crackdown on Kidnapping, Banditry
Among the cases highlighted was the arrest of Musa Jibrin, linked to criminal conspiracy and unlawful possession of firearms. Police recovered an FNC rifle and a magazine from him, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend his fleeing accomplice.
Fake Police Checkpoints Dismantled
In Benue State, operatives arrested four suspects—Anuga Emmanuel, Peter John, Francis Abba Idoko, and Ohepo Ogwuche—who allegedly specialized in mounting fake police checkpoints to rob unsuspecting citizens.
Recovered from the gang were a locally fabricated rifle, a revolver pistol, live cartridges, and a Police Mobile Force uniform used as disguise.
‘One Chance’ Syndicate Nabbed in Abuja
Police also arrested four suspects along the Dei-Dei/Kubwa Expressway in Abuja for alleged involvement in abduction, “one chance” extortion, robbery, and attempted murder.
Items recovered include a vehicle, multiple mobile phones, and cash believed to be proceeds of crime.
Killers of Three Policemen Arrested
In Taraba State, operatives apprehended suspects linked to the killing of three policemen in Donga Local Government Area.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects are the brains behind the killing of three policemen… and have been linked to other violent attacks,” Placid stated.
33-Member Armed Gang Busted
In one of the largest operations, the police arrested 33 suspects linked to a violent gang involved in armed robbery, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and terrorism across Kwara and Kogi States.
The crackdown followed the 2025 attack on a church in Kwara State, with police recovering seven AK-47 rifles, magazines, an anti-aircraft launcher, ammunition, and communication उपकरणs.
Illegal Arms Possession, Car Theft Cases
Other arrests include a suspect found with an AK-47 rifle in Benue State, allegedly purchased for ₦1.5 million, and a car burglary suspect apprehended in Abuja with a fabricated master key used to break into vehicles.
Police Reaffirm Commitment
Reaffirming the Force’s commitment to national security, the police spokesperson emphasized ongoing efforts to track down fleeing suspects and dismantle criminal networks nationwide.
“The Force will continue to strengthen its investigative capabilities and collaborate with other law enforcement partners… We remain steadfast in our mission to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of every citizen,” he said.
He expressed confidence that sustained operations would “herald a more secure and peaceful Nigeria.”
