The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), on Friday, said that their operatives across the country successfully apprehended multiple groups of armed robbers, cultists and hoodlums targeting fun-seekers and engaging in gangsterism during Christmas celebrations.
A statement by Force Spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said that the arrests followed the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to commands and formations of the force to emplace watertight anti crime strategies to ensure adequate safety and security during this festive period.
This was as the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, also begun operational assessment of key recreational centres across the FCT, including Millennium Park, Jabi Park, Lugbe ShopRite and Magic Land, to ascertain the operational effectiveness of the Command’s deployment during Christmas celebrations.
The force spokesperson said that on 25th of December 2024, at about 1a.m., the police operatives attached to 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.
He said that 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 also the recovery of the weapons they had used in carrying out robbery attacks on innocent fun-seekers in the area.
According to him, “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 8p.m., 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, FCT and Imo, leading to the arrests of several suspects in various locations during the Christmas celebration period.”
The IG has commended the officers involved in these operations for their vigilance and commitment to public safety, highlighting their display of exemplary dedication in safeguarding our communities, especially during this joyful season.
Egbetokun urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
He further assured citizens that the Force is fully 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,” IG said.
Also, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Olatunji Disu, said the deployment and assessment of the operation is part of the Command’s proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of residents during the festive season.
A statement by Police Public Relations Officer, FCT Police Command, SP Josephine Adeh, said the CP evaluated the strategic security deployments in these areas to foster safety during the celebration.
The CP’s operational visit underscored the Command’s commitment to boost police visibility, enhancing public confidence, and reassuring residents of their safety.
He said the FCT Police Command remain dedicated to providing a peaceful and secure festive season for all.
He urged citizens to report any suspicious activities promptly.
Linus Aleke
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