The Nigeria Police Force has rescued 12 kidnapped victims and arrested 15 suspects during coordinated police nationwide operations across 11 states. These actions took place within 24 hours.
According to Vanguard, the police disclosed this on Monday in a situation report. The report covered operations against kidnapping, armed robbery, vandalism, impersonation and other criminal activities.
The Force said operatives also recovered two firearms, 60 rounds of ammunition, two vehicles and other exhibits. These items were found during the nationwide operations.
Victims rescued in Niger, Oyo
In Niger State, police tactical teams worked with local vigilantes and engaged suspected bandits in a gun battle. This happened at Mangoro Village in Mariga Local Government Area.
Police said the teams rescued 11 kidnapped victims unharmed and later reunited them with their families.
In a separate operation in Agaie Local Government Area, detectives arrested a suspect linked to a fatal land dispute.
In Oyo State, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad rescued a five-year-old child after carrying out a technology-driven investigation.
Police said two suspects were arrested in connection with the abduction. The suspects allegedly confessed to demanding a ₦10m ransom, out of which ₦1m had already been paid.
Also in Oyo, officers on stop-and-search duty in Ibadan arrested another suspect. They also recovered a locally made pistol, one live cartridge and suspected illicit drugs.
Police recover arms, stolen items
In Edo State, police arrested three suspects linked to the vandalism of telecommunications infrastructure in Benin City.
Investigators also recovered a Toyota Yaris car and 12 heavy-duty batteries believed to have been stolen in an earlier operation.
In Kano State, operatives acting on intelligence arrested a suspect accused of impersonating military personnel.
Police recovered an AK-47 magazine loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition, another 29 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, military uniforms, desert boots, suspected fake military identity cards and other items from him.
In the Federal Capital Territory, police arrested a suspect in Gwagwalada during an intelligence-led operation. They also recovered a locally fabricated firearm.
In Gombe State, police arrested two suspects after intercepting a vehicle conveying two suspected stolen cows. The Force said one suspect escaped and that operatives had launched efforts to arrest him.
In Ogun State, detectives arrested four suspects in separate cases involving alleged defilement, criminal impersonation and assault.
Police also recovered military uniforms allegedly used in the impersonation.
Tactical teams deployed to troubled states
The Force said it deployed tactical teams to Plateau, Zamfara, Akwa Ibom, Benue and Bauchi states after violent incidents in those areas.
Police said the teams evacuated casualties, restored public order and began investigations to track those responsible.
The Force added that investigations remain ongoing to arrest fleeing suspects and ensure prosecution.
The police nationwide operations come amid rising concern over kidnapping, armed attacks and violent crimes. These incidents are happening in several parts of the country.
All suspects remain presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
