OPERATIVES of the Nigeria Police Force across the states have apprehended many armed robbers, cultists and hoodlums targeting fun seekers and engaging in gangsterism during Christmas celebrations.
This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Friday by the Force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police.
According to the statement, the arrests were in furtherance of the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Dr Kayode Egbetokun, to commands and formations to emplace anti-crime strategies towards ensuring adequate safety and security during the festive period.
The statement reads in part: “On the 25th of December 2024, at about 1 am, police operatives attached to the Lagos State command received a distress call that a group of hoodlums armed with dangerous weapons was operating around the Safejo area of Amukoko, Lagos State.
“The swift response by the police operatives to the scene led to the arrest of three of the suspected hoodlums identified as Emmanuel Okoli ‘m’, 20 years, Ogunde Tejiri ‘m’, 20 years, and Emmanuel Orji ‘m’, 18 years, and the recovery of the weapons they had used in carrying out robbery attacks on innocent fun seekers in the area. The police have emplaced intensified searches to apprehend the fleeing members of the gang.
“In a similar development, police operatives attached to Saminaka division of the Kaduna State command on 25th December 2024, at about 8 pm, successfully apprehended one Sule Muhammad ‘m’, 25 years, who has been actively involved in multiple kidnapping incidents within the Saminaka area. Further investigation led to the recovery of a fabricated AK-47 rifle from the suspect.
“The suspect confessed to being a member of a notorious kidnapping gang who had been evading arrest since the arrest of other gang members on August 16, 2024, until his recent arrest on 25th December 2024.
“Following cooperation received from Muhammad, efforts are in top gear to apprehend other members of his gang and recover more arms and ammunition in their identified camp.
“Commendable efforts of the Nigeria Police operatives have also been witnessed in states, including Delta, Ogun, Katsina, Benue, Imo and the FCT, leading to the arrests of several suspects in various locations during the Christmas celebration period.”
IGP Egbetokun commended the personnel involved in operations for their vigilance and commitment to public safety, highlighting their dedication to “safeguarding our communities, especially during this joyful season.”
The police chief, who urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities, assured citizens that the Force is committed to creating a safe environment for everyone as they partake in the joy and cheer of the holiday season.
“As the celebrations continue, the Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to protect all citizens and ensure that the spirit of festivities during this period remains unmarred by criminal activities,” the statement added.
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