Nigeria Police arrest 50 suspects, seize heavy weapons in nationwide crackdown

Cityscope, Crime Diary

ABUJA, Nigeria — 14 April 2026 (NPA) — The Nigeria Police Force has announced a major breakthrough in its campaign against organised crime, arresting 50 suspects and recovering high-grade weapons, including an anti-aircraft launcher, during nationwide operations.

The disclosure was made at a press briefing on 13 April at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) headquarters in Abuja.

According to Force Public Relations Officer DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the intelligence-led raids targeted syndicates involved in terrorism, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

Between January and April 2026, police operatives dismantled multiple criminal cells, recovering 17 rifles of various models, 1 anti-aircraft launcher, 111 rounds of live ammunition, 17 live cartridges, 5 walkie-talkie devices, 9 magazines, 3 mobile phones, and 1 Golf vehicle.

Among the most notable successes was the dismantling of a 33-member gang linked to terrorism, cattle rustling, and the violent attack on the Christ Apostolic Church in Kwara State. Police also apprehended suspects responsible for the murder of three officers in Taraba State.

Further arrests targeted groups operating in the Federal Capital Territory and neighbouring states, including syndicates behind “one-chance” abductions, car burglaries, and fake police checkpoints. These operations led to the recovery of stolen property and the disruption of criminal networks.

In Benue State, operatives arrested 25-year-old Nasiru Ibrahim with an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and eight rounds of ammunition. Investigations revealed his connection to a notorious bandit known as Janari, who allegedly supplied the weapon. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend Janari and other members of the syndicate.

Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to safeguarding citizens, stressing that several suspects are set for prosecution while others remain under investigation. He said the achievements reflect the Police’s reliance on both human and technical intelligence to stay ahead of criminal elements.