Category: Cityscope

ABUJA, NIGERIA, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — The Nigeria Police Force, through INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja, has achieved a breakthrough in the investigation of a transnational fraud, identity theft, and money laundering case involving a United States-based victim. The move aligns with Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu’s drive against cyber-enabled crimes.

The case was reported by an American woman who was defrauded of US$550,000 between October 2025 and January 2026. According to Force Public Relations Officer DCP Anthony Okon Placid, operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja, acting on credible intelligence, tracked and arrested the suspect in Benin City, Edo State, during a coordinated operation between 23 and 26 March 2026.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect, Emwanta Eghosa Smith of Uselu, Edo State, impersonated senior government officials and public figures to gain the victim’s trust, inducing her to transfer funds via cryptocurrency platforms. The proceeds were laundered through the purchase of five vehicles and an unfinished property in Benin City, all secured as exhibits. Police also recovered counterfeit US$10,000 from the suspect.

Inspector-General Disu reiterated the Force’s commitment to tackling cyber-enabled financial crimes and strengthening collaboration with international partners to ensure perpetrators face justice. He urged members of the public to remain vigilant in online engagements, particularly financial transactions, and to report suspicious activities promptly.

LAGOS, NIGERIA, 31 March 2026 (NPA) — The Lagos State Police Command has announced the withdrawal of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce) from traffic control and traffic contravention enforcement across the State.

In a statement issued on 31 March 2026 by SP Abimbola Adebisi, Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, Ikeja, the Command informed the public that the Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, psc, mnips, has directed the immediate and complete withdrawal of the Taskforce from traffic-related duties.

The statement clarified that this directive forms part of ongoing efforts to streamline traffic management operations and to ensure professionalism, accountability, and clarity in the discharge of responsibilities. It emphasised that while the Taskforce has been relieved of traffic enforcement, all other assigned duties and operational mandates remain fully in effect.

The Command further explained that the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit is not the only Taskforce operating within the State. Residents and motorists are therefore strongly advised to verify the identity of personnel and agencies before making allegations or assertions, particularly in matters relating to traffic enforcement.

The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property while ensuring that all operations within the State are conducted in accordance with the law and best practices. Members of the public are encouraged to remain law-abiding and to cooperate with all legitimate security agencies.

ABUJA, NIGERIA, 31 March 2026 (NPA) — Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a renewed warning that overloading of vehicles remains one of the most dangerous practices on the nation’s roads, significantly increasing the risk of traffic crashes and fatalities.

The agency, in a statement released Tuesday, stressed that when a vehicle exceeds its designed load capacity, it compromises braking efficiency, vehicle stability, and tyre performance. These mechanical failures often result in sudden loss of control, particularly at high speeds or on poorly maintained roads, thereby endangering lives.

FRSC clarified that, beyond putting the driver at risk, overloading exposes passengers and other road users to grave danger. It also accelerates vehicle wear and tear and contributes to the rapid deterioration of road infrastructure, creating broader safety and economic challenges for the country.

The Corps strongly urged drivers, fleet managers, and transport operators to strictly adhere to prescribed loading limits and safety regulations at all times. Compliance, it noted, is not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility to safeguard lives, property, and public assets.

Reiterating its commitment, the FRSC emphasised that enforcement and monitoring will be intensified across all formations nationwide. Anyone found violating these regulations will face appropriate sanctions in line with extant laws, as the agency continues to prioritise road safety and the protection of Nigerians.

JOS, NIGERIA, 30 March 2026 (NPA) — No fewer than 15 people were killed last night in Plateau State, Nigeria’s north‑central region, when suspected terrorists stormed Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area.

Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers, riding motorcycles, opened fire indiscriminately around 7:30 p.m., leaving several others critically injured. Panic spread quickly through the community as residents fled for safety.

Security forces under Operation Enduring Peace were swiftly deployed to restore calm and prevent further bloodshed. In response, the Plateau State Government imposed a strict 48‑hour curfew across Jos North, effective at midnight, to halt any escalation of violence.

State Commissioner for Information Joyce Ramnap described the incident as “tragic,” urging residents to comply fully with the curfew order for their safety. She stressed that the government is determined to protect lives and restore peace in the troubled area.

Police and other security agencies have confirmed the massacre, adding that investigations are underway to identify the perpetrators and dismantle their networks. Authorities vowed that those behind the attack would be tracked down and brought to justice.