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Category: Crime Diary

  • Netanyahu accuses Iran of missile strikes on civilians amid escalating conflict

    Netanyahu accuses Iran of missile strikes on civilians amid escalating conflict

    JERUSALEM, ISRAEL (NPA), March 3, 2026 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Iran of launching missile attacks on civilian areas in response to ongoing joint military operations by Israel and the United States. Netanyahu said Israel’s strikes are aimed at protecting civilians and neutralizing what he described as “existential threats.”

    In a statement on Tuesday, Netanyahu explained that Israel’s military campaign against Iran was designed to “remove existential threats and to create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to cast off the yoke of tyranny. That day is near—and when it arrives, Israel and the United States will be there.”

    The conflict has intensified, with Israeli and U.S. forces carrying out repeated strikes on Iranian military targets, while Iran has retaliated with missile barrages targeting Israel and several Gulf states. Netanyahu urged Israeli citizens to strictly follow Home Front Command instructions, noting that compliance has saved lives, though some casualties have occurred among those outside protected areas.

    Addressing the Iranian people directly, Netanyahu called on them to prepare for change, saying: “The day to cast off the yoke of tyranny is near as the ‘Lion’s Roar’ military campaign continues. Israel and the United States will stand with the Iranian people—but it depends on them. We will be there.”

    Netanyahu also warned that Iran’s missile strikes have extended beyond the Middle East. “They fired yesterday on a large part of the countries in the region, and indeed, they have fired on Europe too,” he said. He cautioned that if Iran were to acquire nuclear weapons, “they will threaten all of humanity.”

    He also stressed that Israel’s actions, in coordination with the United States, are not only for national defense but also for global security: “We embarked to remove this danger first and foremost from ourselves, but we are acting together with the United States on behalf of and for all of humanity.”

  • Dangote Industries warns against impersonators and fraudulent social media accounts

    Dangote Industries warns against impersonators and fraudulent social media accounts

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA), March 3, 2026 — Dangote Industries Limited has issued a public warning over the growing number of impersonation and fraudulent activities carried out by individuals falsely claiming to represent the company, its leadership, and members of the Dangote family.

    In a statement released on Tuesday, the company said impostors have been using the names of its executives and family members to defraud unsuspecting individuals through fake investment offers, business proposals, charity solicitations, employment promises, and other deceptive schemes.

    The company emphasized that neither Dangote Industries Limited, its Group President Aliko Dangote, nor any executive or family member—including Fatima Aliko Dangote, Mariya Aliko Dangote, and Halima Aliko Dangote—solicit funds, investments, contracts, or personal information via WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or any other social media platform. It further clarified that neither Aliko Dangote nor the company maintains accounts on Facebook or TikTok.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, under no circumstances do the company’s executives initiate direct contact with private individuals through social media channels for financial transactions, business opportunities, or personal requests,” the statement read.

    Dangote Industries urged the public to disregard unsolicited messages, calls, or social media accounts claiming affiliation with the company or its executives. It stressed that all official communications are disseminated exclusively through verified corporate channels and recognized media outlets.

    The company reaffirmed its commitment to protecting brand integrity and public safety, noting that it is working closely with security and law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute those behind these fraudulent activities. Members of the public who receive suspicious communications are encouraged to report such incidents to the appropriate authorities immediately.

  • Police confirm arson attack on Catholic Church in Cross River State

    Police confirm arson attack on Catholic Church in Cross River State

    BOKI, NIGERIA (Agency Report): The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed an attack on St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Katchuan Iruan, Boki Local Government Area. The incident, reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, occurred around 3:00 a.m. on Thursday.  

    Police spokesperson ASP Sunday Eitokpah said the attack was carried out by suspected arsonists. While the motive remains unclear, investigations are ongoing.  

    The assailants reportedly destroyed church records stored in the sacristy and set fire to two vehicles on the premises—a Lexus 350 SUV belonging to the parish priest and a Toyota Corolla.  

    ASP Eitokpah stated:  “No suspect has been identified at this time. Efforts are ongoing to ascertain those responsible for this unfortunate criminal act. The scene has been visited, photographs taken, and the case referred to Okunde Police Station for discreet investigation. Any identified suspects will be made known to the public.”  

    The incident comes amid growing concerns over attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria. The United States recently designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) due to religious freedom violations. Last week, a U.S. Congressional committee submitted recommendations to President Donald Trump aimed at addressing alleged attacks on Christians and the displacement of local communities by armed groups. 

  • Nwifuru condemns abduction of Royal Father, orders security agencies to Act

    Nwifuru condemns abduction of Royal Father, orders security agencies to Act

    ABAKALIKI, NIGERIA (NPA): Ebonyi State Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has condemned the abduction of His Royal Highness, Ezeogo Francis Igwe, the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area and father of former Deputy Governor Dr Eric Kelechi Igwe. The monarch was reportedly kidnapped by suspected hoodlums on Sunday morning while on his way to church.

    Governor Nwifuru described the incident as “deeply troubling and totally unacceptable,” stressing that criminal acts against innocent citizens, particularly respected community leaders, will not be tolerated in Ebonyi State. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor, on March 1, 2026, the governor announced that the state government has activated all security and intelligence mechanisms to ensure the monarch’s safe rescue. 

    He further directed security agencies to work in synergy to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice, pledging that the government will deploy all available resources to unmask those behind the crime and prevent future occurrences.

    Kidnapping remains a widespread challenge in Nigeria, driven by poverty, unemployment, and weak law enforcement. While ransom payments are the primary motive, political grievances, ethnic tensions, and insurgency also contribute to the menace. The consequences are far-reaching, eroding public trust, discouraging investment, and instilling fear in communities. Experts emphasize that solutions must combine stronger security operations with socio-economic reforms. The Nigerian government has introduced tougher anti-kidnapping laws, launched military campaigns against bandits, and invested in community policing.

  • Austin-Texas Mass Shooting Investigated as Possible Terror Attack

    Austin-Texas Mass Shooting Investigated as Possible Terror Attack

    AUSTIN, TEXAS (NPA) — The FBI announced Sunday that a mass shooting in downtown Austin, Texas, which left three people dead and 14 others injured, is being investigated as “potentially an act of terrorism.”

    Authorities said the suspect, who was wearing a hoodie emblazoned with the words “Property of Allah” and an undershirt featuring an Iranian flag, opened fire in a crowded entertainment district early Sunday.

    Federal law enforcement sources identified the suspect as Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal and residing in Pflugerville, Texas. Diagne reportedly became a U.S. citizen in 2013.

    Investigators are working to determine the motive behind the attack and whether it was ideologically driven.

    The incident comes amid heightened global tensions following the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The development has sparked protests in several cities worldwide, including demonstrations in Pakistan and northern Nigeria, as military escalations continue between the United States, Israel, and the Islamic Republic of Iran.

  • Lagos Police Quell Gang Attacks Along Badagry Expressway

    Lagos Police Quell Gang Attacks Along Badagry Expressway

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) – The Lagos State Police Command has restored order in the Ijanikin, Agbara, and Oto Awori areas along the Badagry Expressway following reports of gang attacks. The intervention came after social media appeals by users calling on the state government and security agencies to address worsening insecurity in the axis.

    Responding to the appeal, the Police Command confirmed via its official X account that the situation was under control. It stated that the Commissioner of Police personally led teams from various units to the affected locations, ensuring that normalcy was restored. Authorities pledged to provide further updates as investigations continue.

    Gang-related violence remains a recurring challenge in Lagos, often driven by the activities of “area boys,” cult groups, and criminal networks competing for territorial control. Such clashes are fueled by unemployment, poverty, and weak enforcement, with incidents frequently occurring around transport hubs, markets, and densely populated districts. The police have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding residents and commuters along the Badagry corridor.

  • Troops overrun ESN/IPOB hideout in Anambra Mother Valley

    Troops overrun ESN/IPOB hideout in Anambra Mother Valley

    ANAMBRA, NIGERIA (Agency Report): Joint troops under Operation UDO KA have overrun the suspected Eastern Security Network (ESN)/IPOB supreme headquarters in Mother Valley in Nkwere area of Anambra, following a coordinated ground assault.

    A credible Army Headquarters source told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the final assault commenced at about 7 a.m. on Feb. 26, involving personnel of the military, the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

    He said the troops advanced on foot for about three hours through difficult and restricted terrain to gain entry into the valley.

    He added that the joint force met heavy resistance from ESN/IPOB elements who employed locally-made Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and intense gunfire.

    He explained that “the troops, however, displayed resilience and professionalism, overwhelmed the fighters and broke through their defensive positions.

    “The force successfully dominated the valley, neutralising one suspected IPOB member, while several others were believed to have escaped with gunshot wounds.

    “Items recovered during the operation included two pump-action guns, one locally-fabricated firearm, one tear gas gun and seven gas cylinders.

    “Others were one electric kettle, one Biafran flag, one United States flag and one Israeli flag.”

    The source revealed that troops also destroyed life-support structures at the camp, including solar panels and a Mikano generator.

    He added that an ambush team also apprehended two suspected IPOB members during the operation.

    “One suspect was apprehended while allegedly attempting to plant an IED, while the other was arrested for allegedly spying on troop movement into the valley.

    “Both suspects are currently in the custody of the 34 Military Intelligence and are undergoing profiling and further investigation.

    “Troops also recovered one Kia saloon car and one black Toyota Sequoia SUV from a parking area within another sector of the valley.

    “Efforts were ongoing to move the vehicles to the Forward Operating Base in Orsu,” he added.

  • UN Rights Chief Raises Alarm Over Executions in Iran

    UN Rights Chief Raises Alarm Over Executions in Iran

    GENEVA, SWITZERLAND (NPA): The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has urged Iran to halt the use of capital punishment, warning that many more individuals could face execution following recent unrest.

    Speaking before the UN Human Rights Council, Türk expressed deep concern after reports emerged that at least eight people — including two minors — have already received death sentences linked to the January protests. He noted that another 30 individuals may be at risk of similar rulings.

    One case involves a man convicted of “enmity against God” by a revolutionary court in Tehran. If upheld, this would mark the first death sentence directly tied to the mass demonstrations earlier this year.

    Rights organizations say thousands were killed during the crackdown, which has been described as the most severe domestic turmoil since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The unrest also drew international attention, with warnings from Washington about possible military consequences should executions proceed.

    Türk cautioned that escalating tensions could destabilize the wider region, stressing the need for restraint and dialogue. Meanwhile, talks in Geneva between U.S. and Iranian officials — mediated by Oman — made some progress on nuclear issues, though no breakthrough was reported that might ease fears of military confrontation.

  • Tiger Base Owerri Accused of Killings, Torture of Detainees — Amnesty International

    Tiger Base Owerri Accused of Killings, Torture of Detainees — Amnesty International

    ENUGU, NIGERIA (NPA): Amnesty International Nigeria has released a new report alleging serious human rights violations by the police unit known as Tiger Base in Owerri, Imo State, southeast Nigeria. The report, launched on 25 February 2026 at the Carlton Swiss Grand Hotel in Enugu, accuses the unit of unlawful killings, torture, and extortion.

    According to Amnesty International, its investigation found that Tiger Base — originally established to combat kidnapping and armed robbery — has instead been involved in “unlawfully killing suspects, torturing and ill-treating detainees to coerce confessions to fabricated crimes, and arresting individuals for the sole purpose of extorting bribes.”

    The organization further stated that detainees “are kept in filthy, windowless cells and subjected to regular beatings. Many are held for weeks or months without charge. Others have been shot or forcibly disappeared.”

    The launch event was attended by civil society groups, activists, survivors, lawyers, and students. Amnesty International called on Nigerian authorities to “promptly establish an independent, impartial, and effective investigation into the atrocities committed by Tiger Base officers in Owerri.”

    In recent weeks, civil society organizations, lawyers, activists, and families of alleged victims have intensified advocacy efforts, demanding accountability for those who died or went missing in Tiger Base custody.

    The Imo State Police Command, however, rejected the allegations, insisting that Tiger Base is not a “slaughterhouse” or torture centre, but a legitimate anti-kidnapping unit contributing to public safety.

    Despite this official position, mounting allegations of torture, unlawful detention, extrajudicial killings, and extortion have fuelled fresh calls for investigations, reforms, and even the possible closure of the unit.

  • Police Declare Manfred Ekpe, ADC Spokesperson in Akwa Ibom State, Wanted

    Police Declare Manfred Ekpe, ADC Spokesperson in Akwa Ibom State, Wanted

    UYO, NIGERIA (NPA) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has declared Barrister Manfred Ekpe, spokesperson for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Akwa Ibom State, wanted on allegations of cyberstalking, threats to life, criminal defamation, intimidation, and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace.

    Ekpe, a constitutional lawyer and community rights activist, is widely known for his outspoken criticism of government policies, particularly on environmental and community issues. He has publicly challenged state officials over the legal status and management of the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve, accusing them of misrepresenting the law.

    The activist has also accused Governor Umo Eno of using state institutions to suppress dissent and intimidate critics, especially those active on social media.

    While police authorities maintain that Ekpe is wanted in connection with criminal allegations, the lawyer insists the charges are politically motivated, stemming from his criticism of the governor and his administration.