In a concerted effort to combat violent and organized crimes across Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force has ramped up its operations, yielding significant successes in neutralizing criminal activities and strengthening internal security.
On 14th February 2025, unknown armed men attacked Gobiraje Village in Suru LGA, Kebbi State, abducting a 60-year-old man, Umaru Bawa. Upon receiving the distress report, police operatives from the Kebbi State Command launched a manhunt, tracking the suspects to Tundafari Forest, located in the Dakingari axis. A fierce gunfight ensued, resulting in the neutralization of 4 kidnappers, while 1 was arrested with fatal injuries. The victim, Umaru Bawa, was safely rescued, unharmed, and the police recovered N3,000,000—the ransom previously paid to the kidnappers.
Earlier, on 8th February 2025, the Nigeria Police Force operatives from the Imo State Command, working alongside other security agencies, executed a high-impact operation targeting a notorious IPOB/ESN terrorist camp in Ezioha Mbaitolu, Umuaka Njaba LGA. The operation led to the neutralization of 2 ESN Kingpins and the recovery of 7 AK-47 rifles, 13 pump-action guns, and hundreds of live ammunition. The camp was successfully dismantled, crippling the terrorist group’s operations.
In a follow-up operation on 9th February 2025, police forces moved to the Nkwukwo Forest in Mbaitoli LGA, near the boundary with Ubachima Forest in Awomama Oru West LGA, where they encountered another group of terrorists. The terrorists engaged in a gun battle, but 3 kingpins were neutralized, and police recovered 2 AK-47 rifles, 1 pump-action gun, 4 motorcycles, and various criminal charms.
These operations underscore the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to maintaining law and order and dismantling criminal networks that threaten the safety of Nigerian citizens. Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, praised the officers involved for their bravery and called for ongoing vigilance in the fight against crime.
In his statement, the IGP reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force will continue these operations with renewed intensity, ensuring a safer environment for all Nigerians. He also emphasized the importance of intelligence gathering, community engagement, and prompt reporting of suspicious activities by citizens to further strengthen internal security.
The Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to protect lives and property, foster community trust, and contribute to a peaceful and secure nation.