Police Neutralise Bandits, Rescue Kidnap Victims, Arrest 21 Suspects Across Eight States

By Chibuzo Obidike

The Nigeria Police Force has recorded major operational successes across eight states, including the neutralization of suspected bandits, rescue of kidnapped victims, arrest of 21 suspects and recovery of firearms and illicit drugs.

In Sokoto State, police tactical teams on September 6 foiled an alleged bandit attack on Yadiya Village, neutralising four suspects during a gun battle. An AK 47 rifle, a magazine and 28 rounds of ammunition were recovered.

Police said no security personnel or residents were injured in the operation.

In Rivers State, operatives rescued 41 year old Kingsley Aleaga, who had reportedly been held captive for four days in Ogale, Eleme Local Government Area. Three suspects were arrested, while suspected hard drugs were recovered.

In Niger State, police engaged bandits who attacked Pelegi Community in Mashegu Local Government Area, neutralising one suspect. Five victims were abducted during the attack, with efforts ongoing to rescue them and apprehend fleeing assailants.

In Kebbi State, Police Mobile Force personnel engaged armed terrorists in a gun battle lasting more than two hours after coming under attack during a routine patrol. Several attackers were reportedly neutralised before reinforcements restored normalcy.

In Abia State, four suspects were arrested over an alleged attempt to negotiate the sale of a one year four month old child. The child was rescued and placed in protective custody.

In Anambra State, Rapid Response Squad operatives raided a suspected drug hideout in Umuota Village, Obosi, arresting five alleged major illicit drug dealers. Suspected cannabis, methamphetamine, cocaine and Colorado, alongside ₦19,000 cash, were recovered.

Police tactical teams in Katsina State also engaged heavily armed bandits who attacked communities in Bakori Local Government Area, forcing the attackers to retreat and restoring normalcy.

In Kwara State, two suspected bandits were arrested during intelligence led operations, with police recovering ₦770,000, two Infinix phones, a locally made bulletproof vest and a power bank.

Also in Kwara, police arrested 25 year old Afolabi Ayomide after he allegedly threatened residents with a firearm at Avalon Hotel in Offa. A locally made Beretta pistol loaded with six rounds of ammunition was recovered.

In Cross River State, police rescued two severely injured victims who were allegedly assaulted over an unconfirmed accusation of stealing. The victims were taken to General Hospital, Calabar, for treatment, while the principal suspect was arrested.

The Police Force said investigations into the various incidents are ongoing through the respective State Criminal Investigation Departments.