The Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant breakthroughs in the fight against violent crimes across the country, neutralizing three bandits, arresting nine suspected kidnappers, rescuing two kidnap victims, and recovering a cache of arms and stolen vehicles in separate operations.
According to a press release signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, with reference numberCZ.5300/FPRD/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.6/431 and dated May 4, 2025, the operations were carried out in Benue and Delta States by operatives acting on credible intelligence.
In Benue State, operatives engaged in a fierce gun battle with a group of suspected bandits from Shitele and Ukum during a raid on a meeting point in Sankera where the gang was allegedly plotting attacks on security personnel. The exchange near Tse-Gondo resulted in the deaths of three suspected bandits who later succumbed to gunshot wounds at the hospital. Two locally fabricated firearms and live cartridges were recovered from the scene.
In a separate operation in Delta State, the CP Special Assignment team arrested Henry Okpor, a notorious car snatcher, recovering a pump-action rifle and two stolen vehicles—a Toyota Highlander (Reg. No. RBC-414-BL) and a Hyundai (Reg. No. LSD-367-DU). On April 25, the same team apprehended two cultists, Mudiaga Okparume and Arinze Humble, alleged members of the Vikings confraternity. The suspects were found in possession of two Beretta pistols and five rounds of ammunition.
The statement also detailed the rescue of two kidnap victims abducted on April 26 in Agbarho, Delta State. Acting swiftly, police operatives trailed the kidnappers to Uvwiama forest in Ughelli North Local Government Area, where they rescued the victims and arrested nine suspects. The police also recovered a large cache of arms, including three pump-action guns, three other firearms, a locally made weapon, and 13 rounds of live cartridges.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, praised the operatives for their gallantry and emphasized the Force’s renewed commitment to tackling insecurity. He urged officers nationwide to intensify efforts and reassured citizens of the Police Force’s resolve to maintain law and order.
“All suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations,” the statement concluded.
