The Nigeria Police Force, through strings of operations has once again recorded significant successes against several forms of violent crimes and threats to national security. 

A press statement by the Force Public Relations Officer (PRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Monday in Abuja, said the operatives of the FCT Police Command, in a coordinated joint operation, have successfully dismantled a notorious armed robbery and carjacking syndicate known for a string of high-profile robberies and vehicle thefts across the capital.

“Acting on credible intelligence, the operatives intercepted the gang as they prepared to strike an unsuspecting victim around Maitama area.

“Upon sighting the operatives, the criminals opened fire, leading to a gun duel. One of the gang’s most wanted suspects, Abdulmininu Bello a.k.a. Babanle, was neutralised during the encounter, while seven other suspects were apprehended at the scene, including Ibrahim Muhammad, 22 years and ex-convict; Abubakar Abdullahi, 22 years; Sarajo Yusuf, 20 years; Sanusi Ali, 51 years; Abubakar Sani; Isiaka Adamu, another ex-convict and Abdullahi Isah. “Exhibits recovered from the scene include four AK-47 rifles, two locally made pistols with ten rounds of live 9mm ammunition, eleven rounds of live 7.62mm ammunition, one locally made shotgun,2004 Toyota Camry LE, and a red boxer motorcycle,” the spokesperson disclosed.

The statement further noted that, “In a similar development, the Jigawa State Police Command has successfully rescued an 80-year-old kidnap victim, Hajiya Hajara, and neutralised five members of a kidnapping gang in a daring rescue operation.”

He said recently intelligence at the command’s disposal revealed that a group of about twelve armed bandits, had abducted the elderly woman from her residence in Sarbi Village, Minjibir LGA, Kano, and had attempted to escape through Jigawa State.

“In a swift and coordinated response, combined teams of police operatives attached to the Jigawa State Command mobilised, alongside other local security outfits, and stormed the suspected criminal hideouts between Danzomo and Medi villages.

“A fierce gun battle ensued resulting in the arrest of five suspects, including the gang’s kingpin, Yahaya, 35 years and five other suspects were neutralized during the exchange of fire. The kidnap victim was rescued unhurt and taken to the Hospital for medical evaluation, after which, she was discharged. “Exhibits recovered in the operation include two AK-47 rifles, one locally fabricated LAR rifle, 14 live rounds of ammunition, two motorcycles, and two mobile phones.”

According to Adejobi, “The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, commends these gallant operatives for their successful strides and appreciates the cooperation of the public, urging continued vigilance, especially in reporting suspicious movements and gatherings in their communities.” He said IGP further reiterates the commitment of the NPF to solidifying public safety and national security of our great country.