Villeworth Security Services Ltd

Week 10

SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY

S/N	CATEGORY	MAJOR INCIDENTS
1	Kidnap/Hostage	7
2	Robbery	8
3	Gang	2
4	Drugs	4
5	Maritime Incidents	2
6	Terrorism	10
7	Political/Government Agencies	2
8	Murder/Assassinations	5
9	Rape Incidents	5
10	Others	5
	Review/Analysis

Kidnap/Hostage Incidents

Police Rescue Abducted LG Director

A Director in Adagio Local Council in Koi State, Alhaji Abdulazeez Ohere, who was kidnapped last week, was on February 21, freed from his abductors by the Police. Ohere was kidnapped by gunmen on February 13 from his house at Agassa in Okene LGA of the state. The State’s Police Public Relation Officer, (PPRO), Sola Collins Adebayo, said Ohere was released on February 21, after increased pressure mounted by the police and other security agencies on the kidnappers. Items recovered from the kidnappers were the victim’s official white Hilux van, abandoned by them at their den when they realised that the police were on their tail. The state Commissioner of Police, Adeyemi Ogunjemilusi, confirmed the incident and said the victim, who was unhurt, had been reunited with his family.

Gunmen Abduct Bayelsa Monarch

Some gunmen, February 22, abducted the deputy paramount ruler of Ikeinghenbiri Kingdom in Southern Ijaw LGA of Bayelsa State, Chief Collins Adikoko. The victim was said to have been abducted by the gunmen wearing the uniforms of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps. The monarch was whisked away in a waiting speedboat allegedly brought by his assailants and moved to an unknown destination. The Police Public Relations Officers, Bayelsa Command, Mr. Asinim Butswat, said the command had been briefed and that the police had launched a manhunt for the kidnappers in a bid to rescue the victim and arrest the culprits.

Gunmen Kidnap Amaechi’s Aide at Political Rally

Unknown gunmen struck in Khana LGA of Rivers state and kidnapped one Freddy Ndigbara, an aide to the State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi. Ndigbara was whisked away on February 21 by hoodlums in Kaani Community. It was gathered that Ndigbara was abducted by the gunmen during a ward rally organised by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the area. A former Chief Press Secretary to Amaechi, Blessing Wikina, said a group of gunmen, suspected to be thugs invaded the rally and took Ndigbara away. State Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmad Mohammad, confirmed the incident, adding that effort had already been intensified to ensure that the governor’s aide was released. Four days after his abduction, his captors have asked for N100m ransom.

Gunmen Abduct 87-Year-Old American Missionary in Kogi State

The kidnappers of the 87-year-old American woman missionary, Rev. Phyllis Sortor, February 25, reduced their ransom demand for her release from N60 million to N30 million. According to one of her aides, Jacob Ahiaba, Sortor had informed them the kidnappers had reduced their demand to N30 million and asked that efforts be made to get the money to secure her release as soon as possible. The kidnappers reportedly invaded Emi-Woro, a village in Ajaokuta LGA on February 23, where the woman ran a Nursery/Primary School, and forcibly pulled her out of the office. The Commissioner of Police in Kogi, Adeyemi Ogunjemilusi, confirmed that the kidnappers had actually established contact with members of the church and asked for N30 million as ransom. He said the command has appealed to the villagers to assist the police with useful information that could lead to the arrest of the kidnappers.

Chinese Engineer Kidnapped in Nasarawa

Gunmen, numbering about seven, February 24, kidnapped a Chinese project manager, Mr. Cui Fu Long X, in Toto LGA of Nasarawa State. It was learnt that the gunmen stormed the project site at Adadu road in Toto, shooting sporadically while the workers fled in different directions. It was also gathered that the victim was working on the rehabilitation of a water scheme, completed in 1983. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Umaru Ismaila, confirmed the abduction and stated that the police had begun investigations.

Man Arrested for Selling His Son

A middle aged palm fruit cutter, George Maduabuchi, in Isiala Ngwa South council of Abia State has been arrested for allegedly selling his 14-month-old son for N300,000 on February 18. The father of four was said to have connived with another suspect, Obinna Erondu, to perpetrate the act. Commissioner of Police, Joshak Habila, who paraded the suspect along with other criminals on February 26, said luck ran out on him when his wife questioned him on the whereabouts of their son, whom he took out. The suspect, who denied selling his son, said that only took the boy to an herbalist when he took ill. According to him, the herbalist gave him N140,000 and told him that he could not heal the baby so he left him in the herbalists home and came back home with the money. Worried by the source of the money, his wife raised the alarm which attracted some neighbours who helped to arrest the husband. The man led the police to the herbalist’s house where the boy was recovered.

Abducted Medical Doctor Found Dead

The remains of a medical doctor, Samuel Okpara, who was kidnapped last week in Port Harcourt, has been found by the police in Rivers State. Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in the state, Dr. Furo Green, who confirmed the death of the medical doctor on February 26, said his corpse was found behind the Government Comprehensive Secondary School (GCSS), Borokiri, Port Harcourt, where it was dumped by his kidnappers. The late Okpara was kidnapped from his private hospital in the Abuloma area of Port Harcourt. Confirming the development, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ahmad Mohammad (DSP), said the remains of Okpara was discovered on February 24 behind GCSS, Borokiri, by men of the State Police Command.

Robbery

Ogun Police Kill Three Robbers

The Ogun State Police Command has killed three suspected armed robbers and arrested two of them in the Ado-Odo Ota Local Government Area. The state police spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, February 22, said the men of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad had been on the trail of the robbers for almost a month before they swooped on their den. Three of the robbers were killed after a gun duel, and two were arrested, while others escaped with fatal bullet wounds. Adejobi, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, said two Berretta pistols, loaded with three rounds of live ammunition, one locally-made revolver pistol, one locally-made long-barreled gun, among others, were recovered from the robbers. Adejobi said the state Commissioner of Police, Valentine Ntomchukwu, had directed a thorough investigation into the activities of the robbers in the state.

Villagers Burn Arm Robbery Suspect to Death

Pandemonium broke out in a border village of Konshisha and Oju LGAs of Benue State when a suspected criminal, who was among the armed robbers that attacked a bank, was burnt to death on February 21. Gunmen, numbering about 20, had, weekend, raided the First Bank branch in Vandeikya LGA of the state, carting away huge sums of money, and killed several others in the process. The dare devil robbers had a gun battle with the police in the area while trying to escape. The vehicle conveying the robbers, however, crash landed and somersaulted into the bush. It was gathered that many of the robbers fled with bullet wounds and unfortunately one of them, was apprehended by the villagers, and instantly set ablaze.

Five Killed in Benue Bank Robbery

Four persons were reported shot dead on February 20 when armed robbers attacked First Bank in Vandeikya, in Benue state and carted away huge sums of money. Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in Benue State, Austin Ezeani Amaechi, said one of the robbers was killed near Oju while they were trying to escape to Ogoja in Cross River State. He said the killing of some persons by the robbers had not been confirmed by the command but disclosed that 22 magazines, a Toyota High Lander Jeep, a Toyota Carina car and another Toyota car were recovered from the robbers after a gun duel at the point patrol men met them at Oju. Amaechi said no arrest has been made.

Armed Robbers Kill Student in Robbery Attack

Tragedy struck in Ado Ekiti, capital of Ekiti State on February 16 when a 12-man gang of robbers attacked residents of Olorunda, a satellite town, killing a student, Temitope Ogunleye. The student was shot dead as his father was injured with machete and beaten to coma. Commissioner of Police in the state, Taiwo Lakanu, assured residents that the area would be secured. Recounting how the operation that lasted for about 45 minutes happened, Temitope’s younger sister, Yetunde said the robbers, numbering about 12, besieged their residence shooting sporadically.

3 Docked over Armed Robbery

Three persons were, February 23, charged before an Ikeja magistrate’s court in Lagos for allegedly robbing one Segun Akinbode of his cash, while armed with gun and other dangerous weapons. They include Fatai Olorunoje, 43; Azeez Salami, 23; and Taiwo Karimu, 37. According to the charge, the accused robbed Akinbode of N300,000 at Mushin area of the state.  They were arraigned by the police on a two-count charge. The accused are alleged to have committed the crime on December 20, 2014 at Mushin area of Lagos. Magistrate Abimbola Komolafe did not grant the accused bail, but adjourned the matter to March 19.

Armed Robbers Kill Bike Man, Injure Several Others in Lagos

Armed robbers, February 23, killed a commercial bike operator during a robbery operation along at Maza-Maza axis of Lagos-Badagry Expressway. It was gathered that several others were injured as the five-man robbery gang, who traced a bureau de change agent from Cotonou in Benin Republic, reportedly opened fire on passengers and road users going about their normal duties. It was learned that the robbers, after successfully carrying out the operation and carting away about N18 million, shot a commercial bike operator, while attempting to escape. Meanwhile, Lagos State Police Command has arrested seven suspected armed robbers terrorizing residents of Magbon, Pure Water, Aradagun and Oko-Afo area in Lagos. Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Kenneth Nwosu, said effort was being made to arrest other fleeing members of the gang.

Police Arrest 8 Armed Robbery Suspects

The Lagos State Police Command, February 25, paraded 8 persons for alleged armed robbery. The suspects who were paraded by the state Commissioner of Police, Kayode Aderanti, had confessed on how they carried out different armed robbery operations within the state. The receiver of the stolen vehicles, Mohammed, also confessed on how they snatched a Honda CRV Jeep, 2013 model, belonging to a Channels Television staff at gunpoint. Aderanti said the suspects were arrested at their hide out at Ikorodu. He said the police retrieved two locally made double barrel guns, four live cartridges, one CRV Jeep, a Peugeot car, one Toyota Camry and a Honda Accord Saloon car. He said the arrest of the gang was sequel to a case of conspiracy and armed robbery which was reported by a staff of Channels Television.

Police Kill Suspected Robber in Ondo

Men of the Ondo State Police Command, February 25, killed a suspected armed robber, in a gun duel after the hoodlum alongside others invaded an apartment in Ala quarters in Akure. It was gathered that the people of the area alerted men of the police command in the state, who swung into action and engaged the robbers in a shootout. According to the source, they gained entry into the residence of their victims by cutting the burglary with an iron cutter. He said some of the hoodlums, who were hit with bullet, ran away while one of them was unlucky and was killed during the operation. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Wole Ogodo, confirmed the development. He said a locally-made pistol, cutlass and other dangerous weapons were recovered from the scene of the incident.

Gang Incidents

3 Men Arrested Over Cult Killing

Operatives of the Anti-Vice Squad of the Bayelsa State Police Command, February 20, arrested three persons over their alleged involvement in the killing of 23-year-old man, Kurotimi Alexander, by suspected members of a cult gang in the state. The deceased was attacked by four suspected cultists along the Okaka area of the state capital and hacked to death. It was gathered that the victim, who was also suspected to be a cultist, was attacked by a rival cult gang. The incident has however provoked a cult rivalry between Icelanders and Highlanders along the Amarata, OMPADEC, Okaka, Kpansia and Azikoro areas. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Bayelsa Police Command, Asinim Buswat confirmed the killing of the youth and the arrest of three suspects.

Two Dead, Vehicles Set Ablaze as Hoodlums Clash in Oshodi

Two rival factions of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), February 25, engaged in a clash, leaving at least two persons dead and over 27 vehicles burnt. It was gathered that the fight was for the control of parks in the area particularly, as the general election approaches. Another account said that the fracas which lasted for over five hours before combined team of Rapid Response Squad, RRS and other security agencies quelled it, started after the police attached to the Mosafejo Police Station arrested one person smoking Indian hemp. Following the mayhem, the Lagos State Police Command Thursday said it had arraigned 18 suspects out of about 40 arrested.

Drugs

NAFDAC Destroys N482.2m Fake Drugs in Anambra

National Agency for Foods, Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed fake drugs, substandard and unwholesome drugs, foods, cosmetics and NAFDAC regulated products with a street value about N484 million in Awka, the Anambra State capital. The products burnt on February 20 at a dumpsite in the city included fake anti-malarial, antihypertensive, anti-biotic, anti-diabetic, analgesics, injectables of various kinds, multivitamins, substandard cosmetics and food products seized from manufacturers, importers and distributors in Anambra State. Expired pharmaceutical products voluntarily handed over to the Agency by the Onitsha Bridge Head market union and compliant companies in line with regulatory guidelines were also destroyed.

NDLEA Arrest Suspect with 36.8kg Narcotics

Officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), February 23, announced the arrest of one Okonkwo Ekemezie (51), who attempted to smuggle 36.850kg of narcotics to South Africa. The shipment was intercepted at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, during the outward screening of an Ethiopian Airline flight. The suspected substances hidden in his luggage were field tested and found to be methamphetamine, weighing 17.700 kg and ephedrine, weighing 19.150 kg, with an estimated monetary value of N120 million. NDLEA commander at Abuja airport, Mr Hamisu Lawan, said that Ekemezie is currently assisting narcotic investigators with relevant information to track other members of the criminal group.

NAFDAC Nabs Chinese National for Counterfeit Products

The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), February 23, arraigned a Chinese national, Lu Pengqing, at the Federal High Court, Awka, on a five-count charge of alleged importation and distribution of unregistered and counterfeit diapers into the country. The charges included sale of counterfeit products, possession of counterfeit products, importation of counterfeit products, and importation of products without registration and distribution of product without registration. Pengqing, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges. Earlier, the prosecutor, Umar Shamaki, told the court presided over by Justice Gafa’i Bature that Pengqing was arrested with the unregistered and counterfeit diapers in Onitsha, Anambra State on February 10, as he was busy distributing the counterfeit products. The case was adjourned to May 6 for further hearing.

NAFDAC Seizes N2.5m Sweets, Candies in Onitsha

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), February 24, impounded confectionery valued at N2.5m at the Ogbaru Relief Market, Onitsha, Anambra State. The NAFDAC operatives also closed down 12 shops filled with confectionery, including milk candies for children. The Public Relations Officer for the agency, Anslem Okonkwor, said the impounded confectionery was substandard and not certified by NAFDAC. A Chief Regulatory Officer of NAFDAC, Joseph Idowu, lamented that the agency found it difficult to make the traders to cooperate and they were unable to make any arrest to serve as a deterrent to others due to the posture of the market leadership. He said the uncooperative attitude of the confectionery market leaders was unlike the one NAFDAC had been getting from other market leaders, who sanitised the market by themselves.

Maritime

Navy Arrests 13 Suspected Oil Thieves, Intercepts Vessel

The Nigerian Navy, Central Naval Command, in Bayelsa State, February 24, paraded 13 suspected oil thieves that were arrested when their vessel laden with stolen crude oil was intercepted. The suspects and the illegal vessel, christened MT REDEMPTION, were apprehended at Middleton and Peddington area of Brass, Bayelsa State, off the Atlantic Ocean. The suspects and the vessel were subsequently handed over to the operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and prosecution. Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Stanley Ogoigbe, said the gigantic oil vessel with 11 suspected oil thieves was arrested on January 20, 2015. The FOC said the vessel, MT REDEMPTION, was intercepted by his men on patrol and upon interrogation, it was revealed that the vessel had no cogent reasons to be around the area she was found.

Navy Arrests 7 Suspects for Stowing Away

Men of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft, February 25, arrested seven suspects, including two Ghanaians, Liberians and three Nigerians, for stowing away in a foreign vessel bound for Spain. The stowaways had sneaked onboard an International maritime vessel; MT ELECTRA BARI ship, which had come to discharge petroleum products at Apapa tank farms, but were arrested off the Fairway buoy, Lagos. The captain of the vessel, who then involved the NNS Beecroft under the command of Commodore Tekumo Ikoli, had discovered the stowaways. While the Ghanaians were identified as Kweku Asamua and John Okhian; the Liberians were Joe Mcgee and Ibrahim Sola and the Nigerians were also identified as Ikechukwu Obi, Maxwell Madu and Papa Omomobi.

Terrorism

Military Recovers Arms Caches Abandoned by Fleeing Boko Haram

The Defense Headquarters (DHQ) has disclosed that the Nigerian military, in its ongoing mopping up operations in the strategic town of Baga, has uncovered heaps of arms and ammunition abandoned by the defeated and fleeing Boko Haram terrorists. The Director of Defense Information (DDI), Maj-Gen. Chris Olukolade, February 22, confirmed paraded a stockpile of various weapons abandoned by the insurgents. According to Olukolade, troops engaged in cordon and search in Baga continue to discover more arms of various backgrounds and shapes abandoned in some houses and the surroundings by fleeing terrorists. As part of the mop-up operation, the Defense spokesman said that a number of individuals who claimed to be residents are also being interrogated in order to ascertain their identity and motive.

Military Recaptures Baga from Boko Haram

The Nigerian military has completed the routing of Boko Haram from the strategic town of Baga, Borno State, which they lost early this year to the terrorists. The Director of Defense Information (DDI) Maj-Gen. Chris Olukolade, who disclosed this on February 21, said that a large number of terrorists drowned in the Lake Chad as they fled the heavy bombardment by Nigerian Air force heralding the advance of Nigerian troops on mission to flush them out of Baga. Olukolade said that apart from the five anti air craft guns and the rifles captured from the terrorists, over 34 motorcycles and five vehicles including trucks being used for operations by the terrorists were destroyed in the course of the fighting as troops headed for Baga. The Defense spokesman said that the exercise will also determine details of the casualties inflicted or incurred in the course of the operations to clear Baga and environ of terrorists. A large number of Boko Haram insurgents were also reported to have drowned in the Lake Chad as they fled the heavy bombardment by the Nigerian Air Force.

Boko Haram Attacks Niger Village, Kills 21

A Boko Haram attack on a village in southeastern Niger followed by clashes with the army has killed at least 21 people, mostly from the Islamists’ ranks, Niger’s military said Saturday. “Seven Niger soldiers were killed and two others wounded in a Boko Haram attack on a village near Lake Chad on Friday night,” a military report said. “Boko Haram lost 14 members.”

Boko Haram Kills 40 in Attacks on Adamawa Villages

Members of the Boko Haram insurgents attacked three villages in Hong Local Council of Adamawa State, February 19 and 20, killing at least 40 people. Locals said that the insurgents had earlier killed 30 people in Gaya–fa community from where they proceeded to another village, Zang located near the Sambisa Forest. The insurgents allegedly ransacked the villages for almost two days. They first attacked Gaya-fa and in a killing spree over 30 people were shot. The hunters in the villages were able to repel them but they later mobilized and launched attack at Zang. The insurgents were also said to have burnt several buildings in the communities, looting food stuffs and house utensils including mattresses. This attack came shortly after the military liberated 11 communities from the insurgents. The military killed over 300 of the insurgents with several calibres of arms and ammunition ‘recovered from them on February 17.

7-Year-Old Female Suicide Bomber Kills 5 in Potiskum

A 7-year-old girl, February 22, killed herself and five others in a suicide bombing in Potiskum, Yobe State. The suicide attack on a market in the city of Potiskum is the latest in a string of suicide strikes in which children have been used. Nineteen people were injured in the blast in Yobe State’s commercial capital, a vigilante leader, Mr Buba Lawan, disclosed.

19 Killed in Potiskum Suicide Bomb Attack

Nineteen persons were on February 24 killed in a suicide bomb attack Yobe State. An eye witness account on the Yobe state attack said a female suicide bomber struck opposite Tashan Dan Borno Motor Park in Potiskum, killing 19 persons. Forty nine others who were injured in the blast are in the hospital. “This is the worst suicide bombing so far recorded since the commencement of the insurgency as it has recorded 19 deaths so far, while 49 persons are lying critically ill in the hospital and there is a high possibility that the death toll will rise, considering the nature of the injuries they sustained,” the nursing officer said.

12 Killed in Kano Blast

At least 12 persons were on February 24, killed in Kano State as two male suicide bombers hit a bus station in the city. Kano State Police Commissioner; Ibrahim Idris, confirmed the incident that occurred when the two male bombers were conveyed into the station in a Vokswagen Sharon bus, posing as passengers. The police boss said the bombers detonated the bomb, shortly after mingling with motor park officials. The police commissioner revealed that the injured were taken to Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital for attention.

Police Arrest Six Kaduna Sect’s Members, Recover Arms

The Kaduna State Police Command, February 25, raided a suspected terrorist hideout at Farakwai Village along the Kaduna-Zaria road, arresting six suspected members of the Kalakato sect. The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Zubairu, said the six were alleged to be involved in human trafficking, robbery and possession of sophisticated weapons. Zubairu said they (suspects) would be charged to court for human trafficking, robbery and possession of fire arms. The leader of the Farakwai community, Malam Muhammadu Farakwai, disclosed that the sect members were so discreet and had not been relating with other members of the larger Farakwai community.

100 Boko Haram Fighters Killed by Chadian Troops

Soldiers from Chad, February 24, killed 207 Boko Haram fighters in clashes near a Nigerian town close to the border with Cameroon, Chad’s army announced in a statement. One Chadian soldier was killed and another nine were wounded in Gambaru, the scene of regular attacks by the group in recent months. Chad’s military also claimed to have seized large quantities of small arms and ammunition and two pick-up trucks. Niger, Cameroon and Chad have launched a regional military campaign to help Nigeria defeat the Boko Haram insurgency, which aims to carve an Islamic emirate out of northeastern Nigeria.

35 Killed as Suicide Bombers Hit Biu, Jos

Thirty-five people were killed when suicide bombers struck in Borno and Plateau States, on February 26. A suicide bomber blew himself up at a crowded bus station in Borno State, killing 17 persons while a second bomber was shot dead before he could detonate his explosives. In Plateau State, 17 people were also killed when a twin blasts hit two motor parks along Bauchi Road in Jos. The blasts were said to have occurred when residents were returning to their houses during the evening rain.

Political/Government Agencies

Kano Police Arrest 23 Suspected Political Thugs

Kano state police command, February 24, paraded 23 suspected political thugs including a woman who are loyal to one of the political parties in the state. The arrested thugs displayed some of their weapons such as cutlasses, sharp knives and sticks. Kano State Police Commissioner, Ibrahim Idris, warned that anybody who involves himself or sponsors thugs to take weapons and brandish it either to maim or terrorise people would be arrested and charged to court. The commissioner of police warned politicians to desist from sponsoring political violence.

Police Corporal Arrested over Shooting of IYC Leader

The police in Bayelsa State, February 25, announced the arrest of a corporal involved in the February 23 shooting of an Ijaw youth leader, Bekikeme Oyinkuro, during a stop-and-search operation along Igbogene-Okolobiri Road in Yenagoa. Public Relations Officer, Asimin Buswat, said preliminary investigation showed that the victim was driving a Toyota Camry car, which plate number was covered with a black wrapper bearing the inscription of Ijaw Youth Council Kumbowei Clan Chairman, and refused to stop. However, Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has denied that Oyinkuro, who was with his fiancée when the incident occurred, did not stop. The IYC stated that Oyinkuoro obeyed the police instruction to stop.

Murder/Assassinations

Gunmen Kill Governor’s Steward in Calabar

The personal steward of the Cross River State Governor, Liyel Imoke, has been reportedly killed in Calabar. The steward, who was identified as Sebastian, was said to have been killed in his residence shortly after departing from the governor’s house on February 13. The steward had followed his boss round the state on political campaigns, but was killed shortly after returning home.

Cultists Stab Truck Loader to Death

Pandemonium, February 26, broke at the Seven-Up bus stop, in the Ijora area of Lagos State, after suspected hoodlums clashed. It was gathered that fighting began on February 25 after a 24-year-old truck loader, identified as Sodiq, was stabbed to death. It was learnt that Sodiq was going to see a friend when he was attacked and killed by a six-man gang. A resident disclosed that the deceased was a member of the Oju Ina gang and was killed by rival cultists. Police Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed the incident.

Senatorial Candidate Escapes Assassination

Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate for Cross River South senatorial district, Chief Gershom Bassey, February 21, escaped assassination as gunmen stormed his residence in Calabar. It was gathered that the gunmen got to Bassey’s residence late in the evening and attempted to force their way through the entrance gate as they released shot at the police and security personnel stationed at the gate. However, the assailants could not gain entry into the residence as they were fiercely resisted in the ensuing gun duel with the security agents, after which they escaped in their vehicle. Confirming the attack, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), for Cross River State, Hogan Bassey, said the police was investigating the attack, with a view to tracking and arresting the gunmen.

Wife Stabs Husband to Death in Kano

An 18-year-old wife, February 24, stabbed her newly wedded husband to death at Darmunawa quarters of Kano metropolis. The suspect, Rahma Hussaini, allegedly committed the offence after a quarrel with her husband, Tijjani Basiru (24) five days after their wedding. A neighbour, Isa Alhassan, disclosed that they were alarmed by a frightening scream of the man and when they rushed in, they discovered that the man was in the pool of his blood. He was rushed to the hospital but doctors confirmed him dead. The suspect was promptly handed over to the police. Police spokesman, Magaji Musa Majia, confirmed the incident and the arrest of the suspect.

Gunmen Kill 32-Year-Old Lawyer in Makurdi

Unidentified gunmen, February 21, shot and killed a 32-year-old legal practitioner, Peter Terhemba Gbetuba, in Makurdi, Benue State. The young lawyer was at the front of his father’s house, when gunmen who rode on a motorcycle shot him and fled with his mobile phone. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Makurdi branch has condemned in strong terms the gruesome assassination of the young lawyer. A press statement in Makurdi, signed by the NBA Chairman, Mr Mike T. Assoh revealed that the deceased was assassinated at the weekend in front of his father’s residence on Katsina Ala Street in Makurdi. The NBA chairman called on the police and all relevant security agencies to be alive to their mandate in the protection of lives and property.

Rape

Police Arrest Man over Rape of 9-Year-Old Girl

A 32-year-old truck pusher, Alloysus Ikejimba, has been arrested by policemen for allegedly defiling a 9-year-old girl. It was gathered that the suspect, who was described as a serial rapist, had raped his victim more than four times before he was arrested. Father of the victim, who simply identified himself as Kennedy, said the suspect, who was their neighbour, usually defiled his daughter whenever she was taking her bath. The suspect, however, denied defiling the victim.

Bus Driver Sentenced to 35 Years in Jail for Gang Raping 17-Year-Old Girl

An Asaba High Court, February 24, sentenced a member of a six-man gang that specializes in raping girls, identified as Chukwuebuka Sunday, to 35 years in jail for 2012 gang-raping a 17-year-old girl with five others now at large. The victim had narrated that she was on an errand for her mother when the convict seized her by the skirt, dragged her into their compound, locked the gate and raped after hitting her with a cutlass. Afterwards, he called 5 of his friends, who also came and raped her.

Motorcyclist Rapes Two-Year-Old

The police have arrested a 30-year-old motorcycle rider, Garuba Abdulraman, for allegedly defiling a two-year-old child on February 21 and physically assaulting her pregnant aunt, Alimat Muazu, in the Somolu area of Lagos State. It was learnt that Abdulraman, assaulted the Alimat after she quizzed him on the whereabouts of the toddler. The toddler had gone missing and somebody said he sighted Abdulraman taking her away. This caused the women of the area to trail him to an uncompleted building, where they found the girl naked and her clothes washed. The police were said to have taken the victim to the hospital where it was confirmed that there was penetration. The suspect, who was arraigned in court on February 25, confirmed that he assaulted Muazu, but denied raping the victim. The Chief Magistrate, O. I. Adelaja, admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of N300,000 with two sureties in like sum. The matter was adjourned till April 8, 2015.

Electrician Nabbed for Raping Housemaid

An electrician, Chukwuka Onuorah, 33, who was contracted to install a DSTV decoder at an Abuja residence, has been arrested for raping a 15-year-old housemaid on February 6. Onuorah, who did not finish the job that day, was told that he should come back only when his client, Gloria, was at home. The next day, however, Onuorah came back to Gloria’s house without informing her. He immediately pounced on the housemaid who was alone in the house and forcefully had sex with her. The housemaid was said to have escaped from the room and locked the rapist inside the room while she ran outside to alert her neighbours. Chukwuka was promptly arrested and taken to the police station. The FCT police command commissioner of police (CP), Wilson Inalagwu, confirmed the incident.

Father Arrested over Attempted Rape of Daughter, 15

A man arrested for allegedly attempting to rape his daughter in Ajegunle area of Lagos State, has told the police that he wanted to test her virginity. The suspect, Alex, was said to have attempted to rape his 15-year- old daughter in his apartment on February 12 while his wife was away. Alex was apprehended by his neighbours and handed over to the police at Ajegunle police station but was later released on bail. LEADERSHIP gathered that Alex had told Agnes to undress up to her underwear, and allegedly wanted to make love to her but she raised the alarm. The neighbours came to her rescue after forcing the door open, following which they dragged the suspect to the police.

Others

Eight Inmates Feared Dead in Calabar Jail Break Attempt

Eight inmates died following the gun duel that ensued when prisoners attempted jailbreak at the Calabar Prison on February 20. The inmates had disarmed two warders and successfully gained access to the prison’s armoury where they got 53 rifles with which they carried out their unsuccessful operation that lasted over 40 minutes. They were said to have been buried at the Eyo-Ita end of the Hawkins Cemetery in the Calabar South area. It was also learnt that the two warders, who sustained serious injuries during the fracas, had died. The state Controller of Prisons, Clement Udosen, confirmed some fatalities.

2 Killed As Customs, Smugglers Engaged In Shootout

Two people were reported killed in a clash between Custom officers and rice smugglers in Sango area of Ogun State on February 23, while another person was said to be seriously injured in a shoot-out that happened when customs operatives from the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Ikeja, Lagos, impounded a convoy of 10 vehicles laden with rice at Joju Junction in Sango. It was gathered that an attempt to escape arrest by the smugglers led to a shoot-out in which the three victims were hit by stray bullets. The Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Ogun State Command of the Customs, Abubakar Usman, said that the operatives involved in the clash with the rice smugglers were not from the state.

Gunmen Attack Governorship Candidate

Gunmen on February 20 shot at the vehicles of the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Sam Ortom, at the funeral ceremony of the lecturer of Benue State University (BSU), Dr Samson Sambe, in Adikpo, headquarters of Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State. It was gathered that Dr Ortom was giving funeral oration when sudden sporadic gunshots left mourners scampering for safety. It was gathered that the window of the branded van was shattered as the bullet pierced through the roof the car. Another branded Pick-up vehicle was hit at the tail board and the bullet went through, came out by the left side and hit a journalist’s car parked close by

Man Murdered, Body Parts Chopped Off in Lagos

Police operatives attached to Morogbo police station, in Lagos State, have arrested a man for the alleged murder of a 42-year old man in the metropolis. The man, identified as Rafiu Suleman, was brutally murdered as his head, private part, hands and internal organs were chopped-off. The police said on February 16, 2015 that the victim’s father, Wahab Ibrahim, cried to the police at Morogbo police station that his son left his place of work on Valentine’s Day and never returned. The State police spokesperson, Ken Nwosu, confirmed the arrest, adding that investigations revealed that the late Rafiu was last seen with a suspect identified as Alfa Fatai, around 10pm on the same day.

Police in Taraba Parades Criminal Suspects

The Taraba State police command, February 24, paraded a middle aged man, Mustapha John for stabbing Danjuma Somaila to death, over a cup of tea and bread. The police also paraded 40-year-old Alhaji Sagir Mohammed for criminal impersonation of the state acting Governor, Alhaji Sani Abubarka Danladi. According to the state Police Commissioner, Nyats N. Jatau, Sagir was arrested while trying to dupe one Ezekiel Thomas, the General Manager of Community Social Development Programmes (CSDP), Jalingo, Taraba state. “The suspect demanded the sum of N500,000 from Ezekiel under the pretext of being sent by the acting Governor, after duping him of over a million naira previously under the same pretext but ran out of luck as the victim decided to invite the security operatives to step in.

Review/Analysis

Terrorism related activities have persistently remained top on the security watch list as the military and insurgents continue the battle in the North-east. But as the military with help from neighbouring countries regain control of earlier captured cities by Boko Haram, the terrorist have reviewed their strategies, attacking towns as they escape the military onslaught.

Violent Kidnap and armed robbery attacks are seen to be on the rise as kidnappers and robbers continue to kill and main their victims. The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) in the fight against crimes like this has also been very active with the arrest of criminal gangs, suspects and also killing some across the country.

Murder/Assassination appear reduced within the week under review, however, the few incidents recorded are worthy of note as political players are randomly targeted as victims.

Rape of under-aged girls are reported in recent times. Parents and guardians are encouraged to be highly vigilant and protective especially of their young daughters and wards as rape on children are mostly being perpetrated by neighbours and familiar persons.
Government Security agents, within the week under review, and with the displacement of Boko Haram insurgents in parts of the north, have strongly advised that Nigerians and residents in the country should be highly watchful of their environment, while watching out for strange faces and bags kept unattended or littered in public places. This is as the modus operandi of Boko Haram may change.

We are urged to remain alert to threats and promptly report any perceived threat, strange behaviour or movement to the appropriate authorities for investigation.

Villeworth urges everyone to stay safe, law abiding and be security conscious.