The Niger State Police Command has intensified operations against criminal activities in Minna, with recent Niger police raids resulting in the arrest of suspected thugs and an alleged armed robber during separate raids across the state capital.
According to The PUNCH, the arrests were confirmed by the command’s spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun. He said police also recovered dangerous weapons, suspected cannabis and other items during the operations.
Police storm Minna blackspots
Abiodun said operatives attached to Chanchaga Division raided identified blackspots around Angwan-Dakoko, Angwan-Kwakwa and Angwan-Gwari. This happened shortly after midnight on September 1.
Twelve suspects were arrested during the operation.
Police said one of them, identified as Victor Solomon, popularly known as Tumbeleke, was allegedly found with a sharp dagger. Meanwhile, another suspect, Osama Saidu Baushe, was reportedly caught with a sword.
“All suspects are in custody for further investigation and prosecution,” Abiodun said.
Separate raid uncovers weapons, suspected drugs
In another operation, officers attached to Kpakungu Division raided the Angwan-Kanawa area on August 24 and arrested six suspects.
Police said suspected cannabis, a cutlass, two scissors and other items were recovered during the raid.
Three more suspects were arrested the following day at Marikichi after police responded to a fight.
One of the suspects allegedly attacked another with a cutlass, leaving him with a serious injury to his right hand.
The injured man was taken to hospital for treatment, while police said the suspects had been charged to court.
Suspected robber arrested in Maitumbi
Police also announced the arrest of 20-year-old Yusuf Musa of Angwan-Kadara, Maitumbi, over alleged armed robbery and housebreaking.
Investigators alleged that Musa and another suspect identified as Danjuma broke into a residence behind Dana on September 4. They stole several household and personal items.
The items allegedly taken included a television, generator, clothes, shoes, solar street lights, cameras and an orthopaedic bed.
Police said efforts were ongoing to arrest Danjuma and recover the stolen property.
Pistol recovered at mining site
The command also recovered a locally made pistol at a mining site in Dogon-Ruwa village, Bosso Local Government Area.
Police said officers moved to the location after receiving information that a firearm had been spotted at the site.
Investigations are ongoing to determine how the weapon got there. Authorities also want to know who may have been responsible for leaving it at the location.
