The Nigeria Police free 13 kidnapped victims, arrest 5 suspected armed robbers, and recover firearms. On December 27, police operatives from Kwara State Command responded to a distress call from the Idofin-Igbana area. 13 persons had been kidnapped.
According to the Force spokesman, ACP ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, the team confronted the kidnappers, who resisted. After a brief confrontation, the kidnappers fled, leaving behind the victims. The operation resulted in the successful rescue of the kidnapped victims and the arrest of several suspects. The rescue signals a strong commitment to ending the growing menace of abductions for ransom.
The fight against armed robbery continued with another successful operation in Lagos State on December 28, 2024. Police operatives from Lagos Command responded to a public disturbance at Pinnacle Depot in Lekki. There, they apprehended two armed robbers suspects identified as Lawan Mustapha (38) and Aina Daniel (38). During a search, the police found a cache of weapons. The recovered firearms included a double-barrel rifle, 90 live cartridges, and five model rifles. The two suspects are currently in custody, facing further investigation.
Later the same day, at GRA Ikeja, Police operatives arrested three more suspects involved in armed robbery. A search revealed 1 locally-made pistol, 4 live cartridges, and 2 cutlasses, the Adejobi said. These individuals are also in police custody, awaiting prosecution.
Experts react as Police rescue 13 kidnapped victims
Public affairs analysts and security experts have lauded the operations. According to Akinola Alabi, a security expert, the police’s proactive measures are critical in reducing criminality. “These operations show how coordinated efforts can lead to significant results in the fight against violent crime,” he said.
Analysts also pointed out the importance of intelligence gathering and community cooperation in criminal investigations. In particular, they refer to the Lagos operation as highlighting the success of collaboration between local residents and law enforcement. Many analysts have called for more community-based policing initiatives. They say this will effectively sustain the fight against armed robbery and kidnapping.
Police boss, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has often affirmed the commitment to safeguarding all citizens. He vowed to dismantle criminal gangs involved in kidnapping and armed robbery. “We will ensure that our operations are unrelenting in protecting the lives and property of Nigerians,” a source once quoted Egbetokun.
Police have promised to leverage more advanced technology and intelligence networks to combat criminal syndicates. This, they say, will ensure quicker resolutions to kidnappings and robberies. Security experts urge for emphasis on law enforcement investment and national security collaboration.
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