The Nigeria Police Force has recorded major breakthroughs in its ongoing efforts to combat violent crime across the country, following a series of coordinated operations that led to the rescue of kidnapped victims, the arrest of suspected criminals, and the neutralization of armed bandits.

In Benue State, police operatives acting on credible intelligence launched a tactical offensive on May 3, 2025, targeting a gathering of suspected bandits in Sankera, reportedly planning attacks on security personnel. The operation resulted in a gun battle near the Tse-Gondo axis, during which three suspects sustained fatal injuries and were later confirmed dead at the hospital. Officers recovered two locally fabricated guns and live cartridges from the scene.

Meanwhile, in Delta State, operatives attached to the Commissioner of Police (CP) Special Assignment team made several arrests in connection with car theft, cultism, and kidnapping. On April 22, 2025, one Henry Okpor, a suspected serial car thief, was arrested. A pump-action gun, a Toyota Highlander (Reg. No. RBC-414-BL), and a Hyundai car (Reg. No. LSD-367-DU) believed to be stolen, were recovered from him.

Furthering its crackdown on cult-related activities, the same team apprehended two alleged members of the Vikings confraternity—Mudiaga Okparume and Arinze Humble—on April 25. Two Beretta pistols and five rounds of ammunition were seized during the operation.

In a swift response to a kidnapping report on April 26 in Agbarho, Delta State, police trailed suspects to Uvwiama forest in Ughelli North Local Government Area, where a high-intensity rescue operation was carried out. Two kidnapped victims were successfully rescued, while nine suspects were arrested. A significant cache of weapons was also recovered, including three pump-action guns, three double/single-barrel guns, a locally made firearm, and thirteen live cartridges.

The Nigeria Police described the operations as a testament to its commitment to intelligence-led policing and proactive crime-fighting strategies. All arrested suspects are currently under investigation and will be charged to court accordingly.

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives involved, reiterating the Force’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding lives and property across the country.