New Post Africa

Category: Crime Diary

  • US terminates residency of family linked to 1979 Tehran hostage crisis

    US terminates residency of family linked to 1979 Tehran hostage crisis

    INTERNATIONAL, 11 April 2026 (NPA) — United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced the termination of permanent resident status for Seyed Eissa Hashemi, Maryam Tahmasebi, and their son, pending their removal from the country.

    In a statement today, Rubio referenced Masoumeh Ebtekar — also known as “Screaming Mary” — who served as spokeswoman for the militants that stormed the US Embassy in Tehran in 1979, holding 52 Americans hostage for 444 days and subjecting them to beatings, starvation, and mock executions.

    Rubio noted that in 2014, the Obama Administration granted visas to Ebtekar’s son and his family, and in 2016, they were given lawful permanent resident status through the Diversity Immigrant Visa Programme.

    “This week, I terminated their lawful permanent resident status. Today, Seyed Eissa Hashemi, Maryam Tahmasebi, and their son are in the custody of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement pending removal from our country,” Rubio said.

    He added that the family should never have been allowed to benefit from the privilege of living in the United States. “America can never become home for anti‑American terrorists or their families — and under the Trump Administration, it never will,” he concluded.

  • Imo Police launch manhunt after killing of Ochia monarch

    Imo Police launch manhunt after killing of Ochia monarch

    OWERRI, Nigeria, 11 April 2026 (NPA) — The Imo State Police Command has launched a full‑scale security operation to track down those responsible for the killing of the Traditional Ruler of Ochia Autonomous Community.

    Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, PSC(+), MNIPS, confirmed that tactical units, supported by operational assets and working in synergy with other security agencies, have been deployed to hunt down the perpetrators of the attack, which occurred along Asa Awara Road in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area.

    According to a statement issued by DSP Henry Okoye, Police Public Relations Officer, the Command received a distress report from Ohaji Division on 10 April at about 4:30 p.m. Armed assailants attacked the monarch, HRH Eze Barrister Paulinus Ekwueme (Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom), killing him alongside five other victims yet to be identified.

    Police operatives dispatched to the scene recovered the burnt remains of the deceased, which have since been evacuated to the Federal University Teaching Hospital (FUTH), Owerri, for preservation and autopsy.

    The Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the incident, with intensive operations underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover any weapons in their possession. Additional security measures have been implemented to prevent a recurrence of such attacks in the area.

    The Commissioner of Police and his management team have also carried out an on‑the‑spot assessment and confidence‑building visit to the Ochia community, reassuring residents of the Command’s resolve to restore calm and maintain a sustained security presence.

    While extending condolences to the family of the late monarch and other victims, CP Bosso pledged that the perpetrators would be arrested and brought to justice. He urged members of the public with credible information to assist the investigation by reporting to the nearest police station or contacting the Command through its emergency lines: 0803 477 3600 and 0814 802 4755.

  • Nigeria secures 386 convictions in mass terrorism trials

    Nigeria secures 386 convictions in mass terrorism trials

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 11 April 2026 (NPA) — The Federal Government has secured 386 convictions out of 508 cases in the ongoing mass trial of terrorism suspects.

    The Attorney‑General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, confirmed the development on Friday, noting that of the 508 defendants brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja, two were acquitted while eight were discharged.

    According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the trial commenced on Tuesday and resulted in sentences ranging from eight years to life imprisonment, depending on the severity of the charges.

    Mr Fagbemi explained that a further batch of 112 suspects, whose cases could not be heard, will be arraigned alongside others in the next phase of the mass trial scheduled for 15–18 June. He stressed that the convictions send a clear message that Nigeria has zero tolerance for heinous crimes.

    The Minister commended the ten judges who sacrificed their Easter holiday to sit as special courts for the proceedings. He also highlighted the presence of international organisations, including Amnesty International, as well as the Nigerian Bar Association, the National Human Rights Commission, and civil society groups, who observed the trials to ensure due process and transparency.

    NAN reports that the exercise forms part of Phase Nine in a series of mass prosecutions aimed at tackling insecurity and bringing terrorism suspects to justice after prolonged detention. The Federal Government reiterated that prosecuting such cases is essential to weakening insurgent operations and restoring stability across the country.

  • Kano Police arrest car theft suspects, recover stolen vehicles

    Kano Police arrest car theft suspects, recover stolen vehicles

    KANO, Nigeria, 10 April 2026 (NPA) — The Kano State Police Command has arrested four suspects linked to a car theft syndicate and recovered a stolen Toyota Corolla LE traced to Ibadan.

    The Command also confirmed the recovery of a stolen Pontiac Vibe abandoned in Katsina after the suspects fled the scene. In a statement issued today, the Command noted that investigations into the arrests are ongoing. It urged members of the public to claim the recovered Corolla with valid proof by contacting the Investigating Police Officer (IPO) on 07063407910, while remaining vigilant against vehicle theft.

    In a related development, the Kano Police arrested a 43‑year‑old suspect for stealing a Bajaj Boxer motorcycle in the Badawa axis of the city. The motorcycle was promptly recovered following a swift response by officers.

    Despite these successes, the Command emphasised the need for continued vigilance among motorists and riders. It reaffirmed its commitment to tackling crime, dismantling syndicates, and ensuring public safety, while encouraging citizens to cooperate actively with law enforcement efforts.

  • Peter Obi reacts to killing of Brigadier‑General Braimah and others, calls for reflection on value placed on citizens’ lives

    Peter Obi reacts to killing of Brigadier‑General Braimah and others, calls for reflection on value placed on citizens’ lives

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 10 April 2026 (NPA) — Mr Peter Obi, a prominent leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has reacted with deep sorrow to the killing of Brigadier‑General O. Braimah and soldiers under his command by Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters in the Benisheikh axis of Borno State.

    In a statement titled “A Call to Reflect: The Death of Brigadier‑General O. Braimah,” Obi said the tragedy should serve as a clarion call for Nigerians to reflect on the value placed on the lives of citizens, especially those who defend the nation. He stressed the urgent need to strengthen Nigeria’s resolve in safeguarding its military personnel.

    Obi recalled that upon hearing of Braimah’s death, he was reminded of how other nations commit to rescuing endangered soldiers. He emphasised that Nigeria must show similar commitment to its defenders.

    The presidential aspirant prayed for the families of the fallen heroes: “May God grant his dear wife, the families of all the fallen soldiers, and indeed all those who lost their lives in the incident, the fortitude to bear this painful loss. May their souls rest in peace, in honour of their supreme sacrifice for the nation.”

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported President Bola Ahmed Tinubu condemned the attack, describing it as an act of desperation by insurgents weakened by recent military operations. 

    Another presidential hopeful, Atiku Abubakar of the ADC, also condemned the killings and extended condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers.

  • Nigerian Army neutralise terrorists, recovers arms in Plateau State

    Nigerian Army neutralise terrorists, recovers arms in Plateau State

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 10 April 2026 (NPA) — Troops of Operation Enduring Peace, working with local vigilante groups, have neutralised several terrorists and disrupted their logistics during clearance operations in Plateau State.

    According to a statement signed by Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force, the operation was conducted on 9 April across Daba and Seri villages in Wase and Kanam Local Government Areas as part of ongoing offensive actions codenamed Operation Wutan Daji.

    Troops established blocking positions between Dutsen Zaki and Odare Forest, where they intercepted terrorists mounted on motorcycles. After a fierce exchange, 10 terrorists were neutralised while others fled into the forest.

    In a related development, following reports of an attack on commuters along the Razat–Kafi Abu axis, troops launched a swift pursuit into surrounding villages and mountainous terrain. Coordinated cordon‑and‑search operations in Suma Suga and Takwok yielded significant recoveries, including three AK‑47 rifles, three magazines, eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two motorcycles, and five jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit intended for terrorist logistics. A national identity card and photograph belonging to suspects were also recovered, providing leads for ongoing investigations.

    The Army said the successful engagements mark a major step in degrading the operational capacity of armed groups in the region. Troops remain on high alert and continue clearance operations to secure lives and property across identified flashpoints in Plateau State.

  • Sowore cries out over alleged assassination plot, links threats to sustained intimidation campaign

    Sowore cries out over alleged assassination plot, links threats to sustained intimidation campaign

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 10 April 2026 (NPA) — Nigerian activist, journalist, politician and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has warned that revelations of an alleged assassination plot against him confirm a long‑standing pattern of intimidation and violence aimed at silencing dissent.

    In a statement today, Sowore said the disclosure by Harrison Ofoegbu, popularly known as “@IjeleSpeaks2,” was “not an isolated incident” but part of a deliberate campaign to target voices challenging injustice. He recounted past encounters with Ofoegbu, including efforts in 2024 to resist what he described as attempts to eliminate him while in detention, and stressed that such threats are calculated rather than random.

    Sowore linked the latest revelation to his own history of violent attacks, including being shot at close range by police, beaten nearly to death, and the killing of his brother, Felix Olajide Sowore, in 2021. He recalled similar attempts dating back to his student activism at the University of Lagos in the 1990s, when he survived attacks by security forces and cult gangs allegedly mobilised by the military regime.

    “These were not random acts; they were calculated efforts to silence me, to force me into retreat, and to break my resolve as a public conscience and a revolutionary,” Sowore said. He added that the threats have often extended to those around him, reflecting a broader strategy of intimidation.

    While noting that Ofoegbu did not personally disclose specific details of the alleged plot to him, Sowore insisted that repeated attempts on his life remain ongoing. “It is too late. The struggle for total liberation is already in motion. Nothing can stop it,” he declared.

  • Atiku condoles with Braimah family, Tinubu vows stronger resolve against terrorism

    Atiku condoles with Braimah family, Tinubu vows stronger resolve against terrorism

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 10 April 2026 (NPA) — Nigeria’s former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has condoled with the family of Brigadier‑General Oseni Omoh Braimah, who was killed alongside several soldiers in a Boko Haram/ISWAP ambush in Benisheikh, Borno State, northeastern Nigeria.

    Atiku, a presidential aspirant under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), said he received the news “with a heavy heart,” describing Braimah and his men as gallant heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of Nigeria.

    “I extend my deepest condolences to his dear wife, his brother Alasa, the entire Braimah family, and the families of all fallen heroes. We honour his supreme sacrifice, and the daily sacrifices of all brave men and women who stand on the frontlines to keep our nation safe. May their service not be in vain. May Allah grant them Aljannah Firdaus and comfort the families they leave behind,” Atiku said.

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu condemned the attack, describing the insurgents’ counteroffensive as “a sign of desperation” in response to sustained land and air operations by the armed forces. He extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and pledged that their sacrifices “will never be forgotten.”

    Tinubu urged the Military High Command and troops not to lose heart, stressing that their courage strengthens Nigeria’s resolve to defeat terrorism. He promised continued government support, including more equipment and improved welfare for personnel.

    “The true heroes of our nation are these officers and men who serve with honour, courage and patriotism,” Tinubu said, assuring that the Federal Government will continue working with Borno State to achieve lasting peace.

    He also called on Nigerians and the media to support the armed forces in their relentless battle against insurgency and banditry, warning against condoning or celebrating attacks on troops.

  • Tinubu condemns Borno attack, vows stronger resolve against terrorism

    Tinubu condemns Borno attack, vows stronger resolve against terrorism

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 10 April 2026 (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has condemned the deadly ambush on Nigerian troops in Borno State, where Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters killed several soldiers, including Brigadier‑General Oseni Omoh Braimah.

    In a statement, Tinubu said reports indicated that the armed forces had been conducting sustained land and air offensives, neutralising many insurgents and commanders. He described the counterattack as “a sign of desperation.”

    The President extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and the people of Borno State, pledging that their sacrifices “will not be in vain.” He reaffirmed government support for the military, promising more equipment and improved welfare for personnel.

    Tinubu urged the Military High Command and troops not to lose heart, stressing that their courage strengthens Nigeria’s resolve to defeat terrorism. He also called on Nigerians and the media to support the armed forces, warning against condoning attacks on troops.

    “The true heroes of our nation are these officers and men who serve with honour, courage and patriotism,” Tinubu said, assuring that the Federal Government will continue working with Borno State to achieve lasting peace.

  • Horror in Ogun: Family member kills man with pestle, Police foil secret burial

    Horror in Ogun: Family member kills man with pestle, Police foil secret burial

    ABEOKUTA, Nigeria, 10 April 2026 (NPA) — Detectives of the Ajuwon Division, Ogun State Police Command, have arrested three suspects in connection with the alleged murder of a family member and an attempted secret burial in Akute, Ogun State.

    The suspects — Maureen Okirie (35), Salia Karikari (15) and Jubril Karikari (12) — were apprehended on Thursday, 9 April, following an anonymous tip‑off about suspicious activity. Police officers arrived at the scene and reportedly caught one suspect attempting to bury the blood‑soaked body of Stanley Okirie (38) in a shallow grave.

    According to a statement signed by DSP Oluseyi B. Babasayi, Police Public Relations Officer, Ogun State Command, preliminary examination revealed a severe head injury. Investigations suggest the victim was attacked with a wooden pestle, while relatives conspired to conceal the crime. The suspected weapon has been recovered, and the body deposited at Life Channel Mortuary, Olambe, for autopsy.

    The suspects are in custody and will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation and prosecution.

    Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, condemned the act as “cruel, inhumane and deeply disturbing,” particularly given the family connection. He stressed that such violence and attempts at cover‑up would not be tolerated, assuring the public of a thorough and transparent investigation.

    Ojajuni urged residents to remain security conscious, report suspicious activities promptly, and continue cooperating with the Police in efforts to rid society of criminal elements.