New Post Africa

Category: Crime Diary

  • Umahi, IGP Disu strengthen partnership on highway security

    Umahi, IGP Disu strengthen partnership on highway security

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has held talks with the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on strengthening collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Works and the Nigeria Police Force to improve security along major highways across the country.

    The meeting, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Mabushi, Abuja, focused on measures aimed at enhancing safety for road users through dedicated patrol points, CCTV surveillance, solar-powered lighting, rest areas, and rapid response systems.

    Umahi disclosed that the discussions formed part of broader efforts by the Federal Government to build safer and smarter road infrastructure capable of supporting economic growth, connectivity, and national security.

    According to the minister, the IGP commended the ongoing road infrastructure projects being executed under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The police chief reportedly described road infrastructure as critical to national security, economic development, and national unity.

    “Our discussions centred on strengthening collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Works and the Nigeria Police Force to improve security along major highways across the country,” Umahi said.

    He added that the government remained committed to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians through improved transport infrastructure and enhanced security coordination.

    The minister also appreciated the police leadership for what he described as patriotism and continued partnership in securing the country.

    The latest meeting comes shortly after Umahi directed the immediate opening of all sections of the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Road currently under construction to ease traffic movement during the Eid al-Adha festive period.

    The directive was issued to the contractor handling the project, Infiouest Nigeria Limited, as part of efforts to improve traffic flow and reduce travel difficulties along the busy highway.

    According to a statement issued by Francis Nwaze, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Media, the government was committed to ensuring safer and smoother travel for commuters during the holiday season.

  • Gunmen abduct 25 in Kwara, 3 killed in Ekiti

    Gunmen abduct 25 in Kwara, 3 killed in Ekiti

    LAGOS (Agency Report/NPA) — Suspected bandits carried out coordinated assaults in Kwara State, abducting at least 25 people in two separate incidents, police confirmed on Monday.

    According to Reuters, the first attack occurred around 2 a.m. Sunday in Yashikira, Baruten Local Government Area, near Nigeria’s northwestern border. Gunmen stormed the police divisional headquarters, where officers repelled the assault, before setting parts of the Emir of Yashikira’s palace ablaze and abducting 10 residents.

    Kwara State Police Commissioner Ojo Adekimi said a joint operation involving the military, forest guards, and local vigilantes has been launched to rescue victims and track down the attackers.

    In a separate incident late Friday, armed men targeted a prayer vigil at Ori‑Oke Ajaiye in Ekiti Local Government Area, opening fire on worshippers. Police confirmed three people were killed and 15 abducted. Witnesses said the attackers stormed the gathering around 8:30 p.m., shooting sporadically before taking the victims away.

    Authorities have deployed tactical teams, drone units, and mobile force personnel to intensify search‑and‑rescue operations. Kwara, in Nigeria’s north‑central region, has increasingly faced violent spillovers from armed groups operating across forested border areas, often engaging in kidnappings for ransom.

    The latest incidents follow a chilling Boko Haram threat on April 27, when the group vowed to marry off or kill 176 abducted women and children from the Woro community in Kaiama LGA if the government failed to negotiate their release.

    This report is based on information from Reuters and Newpost Africa.

  • Police arrest chef over alleged drugging, theft of ₦150M luxury items in Abuja

    Police arrest chef over alleged drugging, theft of ₦150M luxury items in Abuja

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a chef, identified as John Cosmos Govi, over his alleged involvement in the drugging of residents and theft of luxury items valued at about ₦150 million from a residence in Abuja.

    The arrest was carried out by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) following investigations into the incident.

    According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, the suspect allegedly conspired with two accomplices identified simply as Peter and Moses, who are currently at large.

    Police investigations revealed that Govi, who reportedly trained at a catering school in Cotonou, Benin Republic, secured employment as a chef in the residence after making contact with the fleeing suspects.

    The police said the suspect allegedly studied the movement patterns, routines, and security structure of the residence before carrying out the operation on April 23, 2026.

    According to investigators, food prepared within the residence was allegedly laced with a suspected sedative substance intended to incapacitate occupants and security personnel.

    The statement added that after the substance took effect, the suspect allegedly facilitated the entry of his accomplices into the residence.

    The gang was said to have vandalised the CCTV monitoring system, ransacked the apartment, and carted away cash and about 20 luxury wristwatches valued at approximately ₦150 million.

    Police operatives later intercepted the suspect while allegedly attempting to flee through the Gwagwalada area en route to Lagos.

    During the operation, officers recovered an iPhone 17 Pro Max, said to belong to the victim, alongside a suspected chemical substance believed to have been used in the operation.

    The substance has since been forwarded for forensic analysis.

    The police said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover additional stolen items linked to the case.

    The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to combating organised crime and ensuring that all individuals involved in criminal activities are brought to justice.

  • Kogi police deploy 485 personnel for Eid al-Adha security operations

    Kogi police deploy 485 personnel for Eid al-Adha security operations

    LOKOJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Kogi State Police Command has deployed 485 security personnel across the state to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free Eid al-Adha celebration.

    The Commissioner of Police in the state, Naziru Bello Kankarofi, ordered the proactive deployment in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at protecting lives and property during the festive period.

    According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, the deployment covers personnel drawn from various formations and tactical units within the command.

    The statement noted that officers deployed include personnel from Divisions, Area Commands, the State Headquarters, Police Mobile Force, State Intelligence Department, Counter Terrorism Unit, Violent Crime Response Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, and Safer Highway Patrol Teams.

    The command stated that critical flashpoints across the state had been identified and security measures strengthened to prevent any breakdown of law and order during the celebrations.

    It added that the police were also collaborating with other security agencies to ensure coordinated operations and effective security coverage across the state.

    The Commissioner of Police further directed all Divisional Police Officers and operational commanders to intensify confidence-building patrols and strengthen security within their respective jurisdictions to prevent criminal elements from exploiting the festive season.

    Kankarofi also charged deployed personnel to remain professional, courteous, and firm while carrying out their duties, stressing the importance of respecting the fundamental human rights of citizens.

    The police commissioner, whilst urging residents of Kogi State to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station, wished them a peaceful and joyous Eid al-Adha celebration.

  • PDP leaders visit Makinde over abduction of students, teachers in Oyo

    PDP leaders visit Makinde over abduction of students, teachers in Oyo

    IBADAN, Nigeria (NPA) — Members of the Interim National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have visited Governor Seyi Makinde to commiserate with the government and people of Oyo State over the abduction of school pupils, students, and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

    The delegation was led by Dr Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, alongside the Chairman of the party’s Board of Trustees, Adolphus Wabara.

    According to the Oyo State Police Command, the attack occurred in the early hours of Friday, May 15, 2027, when armed assailants riding motorcycles invaded schools and nearby communities within Oriire Local Government Area.

    A statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the attackers simultaneously stormed Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, as well as Community Grammar School and L.A Primary School, Esiele.

    The police disclosed that several pupils, students, and staff members were abducted during the coordinated attacks, including the Vice Principal, Mrs Alamu Folawe.

    The command also confirmed that an Assistant Headmaster, identified as Mr Adesiyan, was killed by the gunmen during the incident.

    Reacting to the visit by PDP leaders, Governor Makinde expressed appreciation to the party delegation for standing with the state during what he described as a difficult period.

    “Grateful to the members of the Interim National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Dr Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, and the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Senator Adolphus Wabara, who visited us to commiserate with us over the kidnapping incident in Oriire LGA,” the governor said.

    Makinde assured residents that the state government and security agencies were working tirelessly to secure the safe return of the abducted children and teachers.

    He added that the government would provide updates in the coming days regarding ongoing efforts and the current situation surrounding negotiations with the kidnappers.

    “In this period of heightened tensions, citizens should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities by calling the citizens enquiry number, 615, free of charge,” the governor stated.

    Following the attack, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, led security operatives and heads of other security agencies to the affected communities for an on-the-spot assessment and operational coordination.

    The incident has sparked fear and tension across the affected communities, with residents expressing concerns over the rising insecurity and attacks on schools in the area.

  • Oyo Police dismiss rumours of curfew, movement restrictions in Ibadan

    Oyo Police dismiss rumours of curfew, movement restrictions in Ibadan

    IBADAN, Nigeria (NPA) — The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed rumours circulating in some quarters alleging the imposition of a curfew or movement restrictions within Ibadan and other parts of the state.

    In a press statement issued on Friday, the Command clarified that there is currently no restriction on the movement of persons or vehicles within or outside the Oyo State capital.

    The police assured residents that there were no security concerns warranting panic or apprehension, stressing that adequate security measures had already been put in place across the state.

    According to the statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, officers and operatives of the Command have been strategically deployed to maintain peace and ensure the safety of residents.

    The Command warned individuals and groups against spreading false information, rumours, or unverified reports capable of creating fear, panic, and emotional distress among the public.

    It further stated that anyone found circulating such misleading information would be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

    “The public is advised to disregard such misleading reports and continue with their lawful activities without fear,” the statement said.

    The police added that any official security directive, emergency measure, or movement restriction would only be communicated through verified official channels of the Oyo State Police Command and the Office of the Police Public Relations Officer.

    Residents were also urged to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies in efforts to sustain peace and public order across the state.

  • Troops neutralise terrorists, rescue abducted victims in North-East operations

    Troops neutralise terrorists, rescue abducted victims in North-East operations

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have recorded major operational successes across the North-East, including the neutralisation of terrorists, rescue of abducted victims, recovery of weapons and explosives, and arrest of suspected criminal collaborators.

    According to a statement issued by the Nigerian Army on Friday, troops supported by the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) conducted coordinated offensives in the Valle, Ashigashiya, and Gakara areas, where they engaged suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists.

    The military said three insurgents were neutralised during separate encounters, while others fled under heavy gunfire. Troops also recovered communication devices, including a radio set and mobile phone.

    In another operation along the Ngoshe–Amuda corridor, troops rescued an 8-year-old boy abducted during the March 3 attack on Ngoshe community in Borno State. The victim, identified as Abubakar Mublagha, was medically examined and reunited with his family.

    Troops also rescued a 20-year-old Fulani man, Dahiru Ahamdu, during operations around Uvaha along the Gwoza–Limankara axis. The victim reportedly escaped from terrorist captivity following intense artillery bombardments on insurgent camps within the Mandara Mountains.

    The military disclosed that troops acting on intelligence also recovered explosive devices abandoned by fleeing terrorists in the Magza area of Buni Gari. Recovered items included RPG bombs and mortar bombs, which were safely secured by Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams.

    In a related development, a suspected collaborator identified as Kuti Muhammad, said to be a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force, was arrested over alleged links with terrorist groups.

    Troops also arrested three armed robbery suspects in Garin Gwigwi village, Biu Local Government Area, recovering mobile phones, illicit substances, charms, jewellery, cash, and a locally made firearm.

    Additionally, four suspected cattle rustlers and terrorist collaborators were apprehended at Kwaya Kusar Market with six rustled cattle.

    The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations to defeat terrorism and restore peace and security across the North-East region.

  • Edo Police rescue 13 abducted passengers along Benin–Lagos Road

    Edo Police rescue 13 abducted passengers along Benin–Lagos Road

    BENIN CITY, Nigeria (NPA) — The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the successful rescue of all thirteen passengers abducted on May 9, 2026, when armed kidnappers attacked a Young Shall Grow Motors bus travelling from Akwa Ibom to Lagos. The assailants shot a female passenger before forcing others into the bush.

    Police operatives launched immediate rescue operations, freeing five passengers on the first day and two more on May 10 through drone deployment, aerial surveillance, and intelligence‑driven policing. The Command announced yesterday that the remaining six victims have now been rescued unhurt after sustained gun battles and bush combing operations.

    The rescue came weeks after a similar incident involving the abduction of travellers on a God is Good Toyota Hiace, in which the driver was shot dead by the assailants.

    In a statement, ASP Eno Ikoedem, Police Public Relations Officer, said CP Monday Agbonika commended the courage of officers involved and assured residents that intensive operations are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators.

    The Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining security along major highways.

  • IGP Disu assures tight security ahead of Ekiti governorship election

    IGP Disu assures tight security ahead of Ekiti governorship election

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has assured residents and political stakeholders of adequate security and professional conduct by security personnel ahead of the forthcoming Ekiti State governorship election.

    Disu gave the assurance on Thursday during the Election Stakeholders’ Meeting, and the Signing of the Peace Accord held in Ado-Ekiti ahead of the June 20 governorship poll.

    The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the National Peace Committee led by former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar, political parties, candidates, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, security agencies, religious leaders, diplomats, and election observers.

    According to a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the IGP commended INEC and the National Peace Committee for promoting peaceful democratic participation and strengthening public confidence in the electoral process.

    He also praised Abdulsalami Abubakar for his continued commitment to peace, national unity, and democratic stability in Nigeria.

    The police chief reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force, alongside other security agencies under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), to ensuring a peaceful, secure, free, and credible election across Ekiti State.

    Disu disclosed that comprehensive deployment plans and operational strategies had already been concluded for all 16 Local Government Areas, 154 wards, and more than 2,400 polling units across the state.

    He stated that security personnel and operational assets had been strategically positioned to guarantee the safety of voters, electoral officials, observers, and other participants during the election.

    The IGP further assured Nigerians that the Police Force would remain professional, neutral, and impartial throughout the election period, while urging political actors to respect the Peace Accord and avoid actions capable of disrupting the electoral process.

    He also encouraged residents of Ekiti State to exercise their constitutional rights without fear, assuring them of adequate security before, during, and after the election.

    The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to protecting democratic values, maintaining public order, and ensuring peaceful elections across the country.

    The Ekiti State governorship election is scheduled for June 20, 2026, while the Osun State governorship election is expected to hold on August 8, 2026, according to INEC.

  • Osun Correctional Service receives operational vehicles from ALGON to boost efficiency

    Osun Correctional Service receives operational vehicles from ALGON to boost efficiency

    OSHOGBO, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Osun State Command, has received brand-new operational vehicles to strengthen security operations and improve service delivery across the state.

    The vehicle is part of ninety operational vehicles donated by the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Osun State chapter, to security agencies aimed at enhancing the state’s security architecture and operational effectiveness.

    The donation is expected to improve the Command’s mobility, responsiveness, and operational efficiency in carrying out its statutory responsibilities, including the safe custody, rehabilitation, reformation, and reintegration of inmates, in line with the policy direction of the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche.

    According to a statement signed by ASC Joel Oludare Oyedokun, Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Osun State Command, the presentation ceremony held in Osogbo attracted top government officials, heads of security agencies, and other dignitaries, who commended ALGON for supporting security institutions in the state.

    Speaking during the event, ALGON Chairman in Osun State, Hon. Samuel Abiodun Idowu, praised security agencies for their commitment to maintaining peace, law, and order across the state. He stressed that protecting lives and property requires collective support from all levels of government.

    Representing heads of security agencies, Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan described the donation as timely, especially amid prevailing security challenges in the country. He noted that the vehicles would significantly improve the operational capacity and rapid response capabilities of security agencies in Osun State.

    The Controller of Corrections, Osun State Command, Olalekan Rotimi Oluwadele, was represented by Assistant Controller of Corrections, ACC S.O. Johnson, who received the vehicle on behalf of the Service alongside other security commanders.

    The Nigerian Correctional Service, Osun State Command, reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, efficiency, and public safety through effective custodial and non-custodial services.