Villeworth Security Services Ltd

Week 9

SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY

S/N	CATEGORY	MAJOR INCIDENTS
1	Kidnap/Hostage	5
2	Robbery	11
3	Gang	2
4	Drugs	1
5	Maritime Incidents
6	Terrorism	11
7	Political/Government Agencies	4
8	Murder/Assassinations	9
9	Rape Incidents	2
10	Others	7
	Review/Analysis

Kidnap/Hostage Incidents

NIS Arrests Pastor, 4 Others for Child Trafficking

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Oyo State disclosed it has arrested a pastor and four others for alleged child trafficking in Ibadan. The State controller of the NIS, Innocent Akatu, February 14, pointed out that the accused persons were arrested in various locations in Ibadan. He said the suspects would be handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons (NAPTIP) for appropriate legal actions. The service also paraded 12 boys and four girls for allegedly being used by the accused persons in child trafficking. The controller said many of them were brought into Nigeria from Republic of Benin, Togo and other neighbouring countries and sold into slavery.

7 Suspects Arrested as Dariye’s Father Regains Freedom

A combined team of the Special Task Force, police and the Department of State Security in Plateau State, on February 12, rescued the father of Senator Joshua Dariye, who was kidnapped by gunmen on February 7. The father of the senator, Pa Defwan Dariye, was kidnapped at gunpoint at his residence in Mushere Village in Bokkos LGA and was whisked away on a motorcycle by the kidnappers. The security operatives traced the kidnappers to their hideout in Nasarawa state and engaged the hoodlums in a shootout, leading to the arrest of seven of the abductors, and the rescue of the victim. Police spokesman, Emmanuel Abuh, said the man had been reunited with his family.

Security Operatives Rescue 60-Year-Old from Kidnappers

A combined team of Ughelli Vigilante outfit, men of the Nigeria Army and the Police, February 14, rescued a 60-year-old retired staff of a multinational oil company from suspected kidnappers in Ughelli, Delta State. The incident had the security agents trailing the suspects who abducted the victim in his car along Aro Road, Ughelli. The man, who gave his name as Prosper, was later identified as a retired staff of an oil company whose wife was abducted in March last year and is yet to be released. Items recovered from the car include a cut-to-size gun and live cartridges.

Benue Police Alert Residents of Kidnap Ring Targeting Children

The Benue State Police Command, on February 17, alerted residents of the state of the presence of a ring of kidnappers targeting children. The command’s spokesman, Austin Ezeani, disclosed that the kidnappers were operating mostly in Makurdi and parts of Guma LGA. According to him, the abductors target children fleeing from areas of conflicts and some living in densely populated areas of the state capital. He particularly urged schools, parents and religious organisations to take extra measures to protect children in their care. Ezeani assured that the police were on the trail of the criminals, but said parents and other residents should be security conscious and report any suspect to relevant authorities.

4 in Court for Kidnapping, Robbery

Four persons, including two brothers and a lady, on February 19, appeared before a Lagos High Court, Ikeja, for allegedly kidnapping one Olakunle Ojerinde in October 2012. The brothers, Ettenbom Udoh, 27; and David Udoh, 27, and wife of Victor Eno, the first defendant, are facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, kidnapping and armed robbery. The prosecutor, Mr. A.A. George, informed the court that the accused on October 22, 2012, at Ajibola Aluko Street, Okota, Lagos, while armed with guns, robbed Ojerinde of his car and Blackberry mobile phone. After listening to the defence and prosecution counsel, the presiding judge, Justice Oluwatoyin Ipaye, adjourned the matter to March 5 for continuation of hearing.

Robbery

Robbers Kill Bureau de Change Security Guard

A security guard working with a bureau de change in Benin City, Edo State has been killed by suspected armed robbers. The body of the man, identified as Abubarkar Shaibu, was discovered on February 13 when the shop owners resumed for business. Shaibu was reportedly stabbed in the stomach while his colleague, Haruna Zakari, was also stabbed in the leg and tied to a stake. Lagos Street, a highly commercial area of Benin with many bureaux de change, is notorious for robbery. Spokesmen for Police in Edo State, Joseph Edogiawerie, confirmed the killing, adding that investigation had commenced into the matter.

Herdsmen Nabbed for Robbery in Ogun State

The Ogun State Police Command, February 14, announced the arrest of some Fulani herdsmen, who robbed residents of Atoba Estate in the Sabo Area of Abeokuta at gunpoint. Police spokesman, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed that the residents, who were robbed, were able to identify the suspects while rearing their herd of cattle around the area. Adejobi said weapons recovered from the suspects included cutlasses, expended cartridges, assorted charms, and dummy guns. He added that the robbers had been terrorising the people of the area and road users, travelling along Igboora and Ayetoro roads before their arrest. Adejobi said the acting Commissioner of Police in the state, Haliru Gwandu, had directed that the matter be immediately transferred to the Department of Criminal Investigation, Eleweran, Abeokuta, for thorough investigation.

2 Nabbed over Failed Bank Robbery in Lagos

The Police in Lagos, February 19, arrested two suspected members of a robbery gang that had been terrorizing residents of Apapa and Wilmer Crescent areas of the state. The duo was arrested after they had perfected plans to attack a bank. The suspects, identified as Ugochukwu Samuel, 24, and Saturday Akpan, 20, reportedly operate as early as 5am, dispossessing their victims, majority of who were traders and defenseless workers, of cash and other valuables. When arrested, they were discovered to have been harassing their victims with toy guns.

Armed Robber, Vigilante Killed in Gun Battle

The Police in Bauchi State, February 19, confirmed the killing of an armed robber and a member of a vigilante group along Bayanga Dogonruwa Road in Toro LGA. Police spokesman, Haruna Mohammed, confirmed that the incident happened when a Joint Police Vigilante group on patrol along Bayanga Dogonruwa Road was ambushed by unknown gunmen suspected to be armed robbers, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. He said one of the gunmen was killed during the exchange of fire, while a vigilante, identified as Musa Wakili (25), died due to gunshot injuries he sustained during the encounter. The PPRO said other members of the gang fled into the bush with bullet wounds. According to him, investigation and intensive patrol are ongoing in the area to apprehend the fleeing robbers. Haruna said exhibits recovered from the robbers include two AK-47 rifles, 21 rounds of 9mm live ammunition, two magazines, N7,040 and Etisalat recharge cards valued at N1,600.

Robbers on Motorbike Attack Policeman in Lagos

A two-man robbery gang, February 12, attacked a man suspected to be carrying a huge amount of money in a polythene bag and killed a motorcyclist in Lagos. A policeman is feared shot and wounded in the attack that took place at FESTAC. The robbers allegedly trailed the man from an unknown destination and dispossessed him of the money. The police man was gunned down when the robbers were escaping from the scene of crime. Confirming the incident, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Nwosu, said the injured policeman was responding to treatment.

7 Arrested for Carjacking

Operatives from the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Lagos State police command have arrested a gang of 7 car snatchers in connection with a series of car snatching incidents in Lagos and Ogun states. The arrested suspects were said to be responsible for the snatching of a car belonging to a journalist with Channels Television around OPIC area of Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on January 17 at gun point. They were paraded on February 17 by the state police commissioner, Kayode Aderanti, who reiterated the commitment of the police to make the crime free.

2 Docked for Possession of Stolen Vehicle

The police, February 18, arraigned two men at the Gudu Upper Area Court, Abuja, for allegedly being in possession of a Mercedes Benz truck, suspected to be stolen. The accused, Alex Ejiofor (35) and Shedrack Godwin (35) are standing trial on a two-count charge of criminal conspiracy and being in possession of property suspected to be stolen. The prosecutor, Insp. Umoh Inah, told the court that the accused persons were arrested by policemen from Special Anti-Robbery Squad, FCT Command. He said that the Mercedes Benz truck was suspected to have been stolen from Setraco Construction Company, Port Harcourt on January 21. He also said that the offences contravened sections 97 and 319 of the Penal Code. The accused persons pleaded not guilty. Mr Aondowase Apera, counsel to Godwin, made an oral bail application for his client.

Robbers in Delta, Edo States Now Disguise

Armed robbers in Delta State have devised a new strategy of robbing, and even raping, people the university town of Abraka. In the wake of the upsurge the robbers now dress in female dresses, armed with AK 47s to way lay motorist including traders during night fall. The robbers, during a sporadic shoot out, On February 14, killed three traders at the community’s popular market place during market hours. Police spokeswoman, Celestina Kalu, who confirmed the new crime waves, disclosed that two robbery suspects were arrested on February 15 in the area, while two women were also rescued in the hands of suspected rapist during operation. Meanwhile commuters in Benin City, the Edo State capital, have lamented the recent and rising cases of armed men disguising and operating as taxi drivers only to rob their passengers. Residents have cried out to the state police command to intensify their stop and search operation of commercial cab operators.

Ogun Police/Army Patrols Arrest Car Snatchers

The joint operation teams of the Ogun State Police Command and OP MESA attached to 35 Artillery Brigade Alamala, Abeokuta, have intercepted and arrested a gang of young graduates that robbed and snatched a Toyota Highlander at Festac Town Lagos on February 4. State Police spokesman, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on February 14, said the suspects were arrested at the Ibafo area of Ogun State on the day of the robbery. Adejobi said the suspects had confessed to the crime and were helping the police in their investigation. He explained that the acting Commissioner of Police in the state, Haliru Gwandu, has ordered that the case be transferred to Lagos State Police Command, where the robbery took place for proper investigation.

ABU Don, Driver Killed by Robbery Attack

A Professor of Agriculture at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, Ahmad Falaki and his driver were, on February 14, killed by yet to be identified persons. There were conflicting accounts on how Falaki, who was Director of ABU’s Institute of Agricultural Research and his driver died. Family sources disclosed that Falaki and his driver and one unnamed relation were attacked by hoodlums on the Sumaila-Kimbiya road and his official Toyota Hilux was snatched. The professor, his driver and relation were however reportedly unharmed, as Falaki was able to called the vigilante in Burra, Ningi LGA of Bauchi, alerting them of his snatched vehicle. But the professor and his driver were later killed in yet-to-be unraveled circumstance. Bauchi State Police spokesman, Haruna Mohammed, said the police was investigating the incident and that two suspected armed robbers have been arrested in connection with the killing, while the stolen Toyota Hilux was recovered.

Police Foil Supermarket Robbery, Two Robbers Killed

Two armed robbery suspect was on February 14 shot dead after a gun duel with the police during a robbery operation that took place in a supermarket in Calabar, Cross River State. One of robbery suspects was also arrested in the process while four others were said to have escaped. Items recovered from the suspects included a locally-made pistol and 42 rounds of ammunition, machetes, mobile phones, electronic appliances and other valuables. The supermarket owner, Akpan Ekerette, said he had initially thought the gunmen were customers who had come to buy provisions, but was shocked when two of them walked up to him at the counter and demanded all the money in his possession. Ekerette said the attack would be the second time in 2015 that armed men would be visiting his supermarket. Police spokesman, Hogan Bassey, said members of the public played critical role in the success of the operation by promptly informing the police while the incident was ongoing.

Gang Incidents

Cultists Kill 2 in Kwara Rampage

Five members of a suspected cult group killed two people in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, February 15. One of the victims, Mallam Abu, was reportedly killed around Tupex Mini Mart area, while the other victim was killed by same cultists at Gambari area same day. An eyewitness said the assailants, numbering about five, came on a motorcycle to Mallam Abu’s residence, shot sporadically into the air, dragged Abu out and killed him with a machete. It was also gathered that the assailants made sure the victim died before they fled the scene on their motorcycle. Kwara state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Okasanmi Ajayi, confirmed the killings, saying the command had commenced investigations into the killings.

Scores Injured, Property Destroyed as Hoodlums Clash in Mushin

At least 15 residents of the Mushin area of Lagos State sustained gunshot injuries after suspected hoodlums engaged one another in a gun battle. Two policemen attached to the Alakara Police Station were also said to have been shot during the clash which started on February 14. It was learnt that the rival gangs continued the fight on February 15 and shot more residents, damaging at least 10 vehicles. The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Cornelius Aderanti, and some other top police officials were said to have visited the area on Monday. Armoured tanks and police vans were also deployed. Police Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed the incident.

Drugs

Prophet Arrested over N609m Narcotics

The residence of a Christian cleric with the Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim in Lagos, was at the weekend, arrested by officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for allegedly attempting to export narcotics with a street value of N609 million to South Africa. The suspect, Prophet Michael Raji, 60, was arrested, following the interception of the drugs at the cargo section of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, MMIA, during pre-shipment examination. He told NDLEA officers that he received the drugs from a friend and had kept them in his church since October 2014. A breakdown of the recovered drugs, according to the NDLEA Commander at Lagos Airport, Mr. Hamza Umar, was 91kg of Methamphetamine and 83kg of Ephedrine. Preliminary investigation indicated that Prophet Raji was a suspected top member of a drug syndicate operating in Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa, because three passports of different countries bearing the suspect’s photographs were also recovered.

Maritime

Terrorism

Nigerian Military Steps up Campaign against Insurgents
…Retakes Control of Bama, Baga, Others

The Director of Defense Information (DDI), Maj-Gen. Chris Olukolade, February 14, disclosed that a multidimensional offensive was ongoing and the troops were making major inroads against the Boko Haram insurgents in the north-east. The Nigerian military has stepped up its offensive against Boko Haram in Bama, Marte and Baga, among other communities in Borno State. Military sources also revealed that mop-up operations were still ongoing in another Borno community, Mongonu, which was liberated from the terrorists on February 16, with over 300 terrorists killed. The coordinated aerial and ground assault from Nigerian troops in the south, supported by the Chadian and Nigerien troops from the north, has squeezed the terrorists, forcing many of them to flee to what they perceive as safe areas in Yobe and Gombe States where they are now trying to gain a foothold.

Cameroon Army Kills 86 Boko Haram Fighters

Cameroon’s army says it has killed 86 Boko Haram militants and detained 1,000 people suspected of links to the Islamist group, as central African leaders held talks on how to combat the Boko Haram insurgency. Five Cameroonian soldiers were also killed during the clashes in the Waza region near the border with Nigeria, Defense Ministry Spokesman, Didier Badjeck, disclosed on February 16. The Boko Haram sect has widened its attacks into neighbouring nations, notably Cameroon and Chad. Representatives of 10 nations, meeting in the Cameroonian capital Yaounde under the aegis of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), February 16, urged the international community to provide more support in the fight against the Islamists.

Boko Haram Attack Repelled in Gombe

Boko Haram insurgents, February 14, invaded Gombe metropolis, the capital of Gombe state with many people fleeing the town. It was learnt that the insurgents engaged the security forces in a fierce battle around the quarter guard area with security operatives. Attempts to attack the Army Barracks were repelled. Fighting started from Dadin Kowa and Hinna towns of Yamaltu/Deba LGA of Gombe State earlier in the day where residents ran into the bush to escape the invasion of the both towns. It was gathered that security operatives repelled the invaders. The Director of Defense Information (DDI), Maj-Gen. Chris Olukolade said that normalcy had been restored and the terrorists routed from the state. He said that the military were in hot pursuit of the terrorists who have scattered in different directions towards Buni Yadi in Yobe state.

Female Suicide Bomber Kills 7 in Damaturu

A female suicide bomber, February 15, killed seven people at a bus station in Damaturu, the Yobe state capital. State Commissioner of Police, Marcos Danladi, confirmed the death of seven people, including the bomber. Witnesses said the assailant entered the motor park in a vehicle, got out and walked towards a small grocery store at the end of the terminal. She then positioned herself amid the crowd outside the store and blew herself up. Boko Haram Islamists militants have been blamed for increasingly using women and girls as human bombs across northern Nigeria.

2 Arrested Over Suicide Bombing in Biu

Two persons in Biu LGA of Borno State have been arrested in connection with the suicide bomb attack at main market in the area that killed 8 persons and injured 20 others on February 12. The suspects, who were arrested on February 13, are said to have made startling revelations in their confessions which were recorded before they were handed over to security operatives who had saved them from lynching. According to a report, one of the suspected sponsors of the attack, who was released after being questioned by security operatives, is currently on the run.

2 Killed, 2 Arrested as Police Repel Attack in Kano

The Police in Kano, February 15, confirmed the killing of two gunmen suspected to be Boko Haram members in Kibiya LGA of the state on February 14. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Magaji Majiya, who confirmed the incident, said the incident happened when gunmen, numbering about six, stormed the police station on two motorcycles but the police repelled the attack. He said one of the gunmen was killed during an exchange of fire while the other was lynched by the community while trying to escape. According to him, two of the arrested gunmen were now assisting the police in their investigation. Majiya said the gunmen had also abandoned one of their motorcycles before fleeing the area. He said security had since been beefed up in the area, adding that neighbouring states had been alerted on the matter, in order to arrest the fleeing hoodlums.

Explosion Kills 37 at Checkpoint

At least 37 persons have been confirmed dead and 23 others injured in an explosion at a military checkpoint at a road that leads to Biu town in southern Borno State on February 17. Soldiers on duty had tried to stop a bus carrying armed men and improvised explosives, witnesses and security sources said. Among those killed in the explosion were travellers and children hawking wares. It was learnt that a Boko Haram member pretending to be a harmless traveller had a grenade in his hand as he joined other passengers to raise his hands when passing through the military checkpoint. But an eagle-eyed operative of the Civilian-JTF was quick to spot him as he tried to pull out the safety pin of the grenade and quickly took a shot with his double-barrel rifle and hit him in the head. But it was too late as the grenade had already been activated even as the man slumped; killing some of the passengers and the insurgent’s other gang members who had not alighted from their vehicles. The blast from the grenade caused two more explosions from the car filled with armed Boko Haram terrorists, killing all of them. A Civilian-JTF operative, Muhammed Miringa, disclosed.

Military Kills 300 Terrorists, Liberates 11 Communities

The Defense Headquarters, February 18, said the military killed over 300 Boko Haram terrorists and liberated 11 communities in the north east zone in the last two days. The military liberated the communities in seven LGAs out of the eight hitherto attacked by Boko Haram. The local government areas fully liberated are Mubi North, Mubi South, Hong, Gombi, Maiha, Ganye and Michika while the only local government yet to be fully liberated is Madagali. Five different types of armoured fighting vehicles, an anti-aircraft gun, about 50 cases of packed bombs and eight different types of machine guns, five Rocket Propelled Grenades, RPGs, 49 boxes of various types and calibres of ammunition as well as 300 motorcycles were destroyed in the fighting. A total of six Hilux vehicles including those mounted with anti-aircraft guns were also destroyed. Two soldiers reportedly lost their lives while 10 others were wounded in the course of the operation.

Boko Haram Suffers Casualties in Assault by Chadian Army

Boko Haram militants suffered heavy casualties when Chadian troops pushed into Nigeria earlier in the week. Chad’s army, February 17, said that they had seized control of the town of Dikwa, southwest of the Nigerian border town of Gamboru. The offensive deep inside Nigerian territory was a first and suggested a strategy to tackle other rebel-controlled areas in northeastern Borno state, which is the group’s stronghold. The Chadians are part of a four-country coalition mounting a regional fight-back against the Islamists.

Troops Recapture Boko Haram Training Bases

The Nigerian Military, aided by the Air Force and Chadian troops, February 19, raided the Sambisa forest headquarters of the sect, killing 117 terrorists and arresting the Amir (Commander) of the sect. The military also raided Gwoza, which had become the Boko Haram’s new training base after they over ran it in 2014. The troops also recaptured Dikwa LGA of Borno State. The Director of Defense Information, Major General Chris Olukolade, confirmed the development. He stated that the air strikes which targeted the training camps and logistics dumps of the terrorists in Sambisa forest and parts of Gwoza have been highly successful as it achieved the aims with required precision.

Fleeing Boko Haram Insurgents Kill 30 in Attack on Adamawa Village

The members of the Boko Haram Islamic sect, February 19, attacked Gaya village in Hong LGA of Adamawa State. Investigations revealed that the rampaging insurgents killed 30 indigenes of the community said to be located near the Sambisa Forest. The insurgents were also said to have burnt several buildings in the community before fleeing the area. The attack came shortly after the military liberated 11 communities from the insurgents. A security source explained that the insurgents, who were routed out of their Sambisa Forest training base by the combined team of Air Force and Army personnel operating in the area, had resorted to attacking communities that were far away from areas being covered by the military’s presence.

Political/Government Agencies

Policeman Killed, 50 Injured as Explosions Rock APC Rally in Okrika

The governorship campaign rally of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Okrika LGA of Rivers State was on February 17 disrupted as several explosions rocked the Okrika National Field venue of the event. The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed that a policeman lost his life in the shooting at the venue, while three others sustained gunshot injuries. Police spokesman, Ahmed Muhammad, also confirmed that a journalist was stabbed. The governorship candidate of the party, Dr Dakuku Peterside, disclosed that over 50 members of his party sustained injuries from the attack. The PDP in the state has dissociated itself from the development, urging the police to unmask those behind it. The Chairman, Media and Publicity of the PDP, Emma Okah, appealed for a peaceful Rivers State before and after the elections. The IGP, Suleiman Abba, has ordered a full scale investigation into the incident.

Boko Haram Members Infiltrate IDP Camps –FG Warns

The Federal Government, February 18, observed that members of the Boko Haram sect who have been flushed out from their hideouts during recent military operations in the North-east have infiltrated Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps. Coordinator of the National Information Centre (NIC) and Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mike Omeri, said some insurgents were arrested at IDP camps and would be paraded before the media on completion of investigations. Meanwhile, the DSS spokesperson, Marilyn Ogar, said some individuals would be deprived of their freedom to ensure adequate security during elections.

Government Reunites 158 Boko Haram Hostages with Families

A total of 158 women and children abducted by Boko Haram insurgents from Katarko village, Yobe State, have been reunited with their families in Damaturu, the state capital. The victims were released by the sect members after three weeks of captivity. Ahmed Goniri, the state Commissioner for Justice and chairman of the state Committee on Rehabilitation of Victims of Insurgency, said on February 20. He said they had regained freedom three weeks ago, but remained in custody of security agencies to undergo screening, in order to ensure that they were, indeed, captives.

IGP Task Force Recovers 51 Stolen Vehicles

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Special Taskforce on Heinous Crimes has busted a notorious criminal gang that specialises in snatching of vehicles across the country. The IGP special task force, in the process, arrested four suspects and recovered 51 vehicles from them. The Force Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Ojukwu, on February 18, urged members of the public to check through the listed recovered vehicles for possible identification and provide proof of ownership to enable them reclaim same. The recovered vehicles are currently on safe keeping at the IGP Special Task Force on Heinous Crime facilities in Abuja, Kaduna and Onitsha, with contact phone number: 08035557676.

Murder/Assassinations

Gunmen Kill Two Policemen, Cart Away Rifles in Enugu

Tension has heightened in Enugu State following the killing of two policemen by gunmen suspected to be armed robbers along Independence Layout Enugu on February 12. Reports said that the armed bandits, who were in a car, fired at the policemen in a check-point, killing them instantly and went away with their rifles. The State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ebere Amaraizu, confirmed the incident. He said that investigation had since commenced with a view to tracking down the culprits. The bodies of the slain policemen have been deposited at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital mortuary.

Bricklayer Hacks Neighbour to Death

A 29-year-old bricklayer, Ibrahim Tijani, February 8, hacked to death his neighbour, Bashorun Okanla, for complaining about fumes emanating from his generator at their residence in the Okun Ajah, Ogombo area of Lagos State. Tijani was said to have turned on his generator around 11am, while the fumes escaped into the room of the 57-year-old carpenter, Okanla. Okanla was said to have cautioned Tijani, an act that degenerated into an argument and a fight. In the ensuing brawl, the suspect picked a cutlass from his room and cut the victim in the hand and leg. He was rushed to a hospital in the area where he reportedly died. A source, who pleaded anonymity, said the police from the Ogombo division recovered the cutlass used in committing the crime after arresting the suspect. Tijani had confessed to the crime. The Police Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Nwosu, said the police had started investigation into the case.

Boy Set Ablaze by Boss Dies

A 13-year-old bar attendant, Ezekiel Emmanuel, who was allegedly set ablaze by his boss for stealing N1,500 in the Akoka, Ibafo area of Ogun State, has died in the hospital. The Ogun State Police Command is searching for the bar manager, Bidemi Shittu, who allegedly poured petrol on the teenager on February 9, and set him on fire, who has since then, gone into hiding. Emmanuel, who was rescued by residents and rushed to the hospital, died on February 15. Spokesman for the state police command, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the death of the attendant.

Gunmen Kill 3 in Plateau Attack

A group of 10 gunmen, February 17, invaded Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau state and killed three people on Marit Village. It was learnt that on hearing the gunshot, the people of the village ran into the bush but seven of them were shot and later taken to Barkin Ladi General Hospital for treatment. The media officer of the Special Task Force (STF), Captain Ikedichi Ewela, who confirmed the incident to the Nigerian Tribune, on phone, said the attackers were repelled while those who sustained injuries were taken to the hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, there is heavy security build up in Barkin Ladi LGA following the recent assassination of the chairman of APC in the council area.

3 Arrested over Killing in Bayelsa

The Anti-Vice Squad of Bayelsa State Police Command, February 19, arrested three persons for alleged involvement in the killing of a boy, Kurotimi Alexander, aged 23, by suspected members of a cult group. The deceased, an indigene of Ekeowe in Southern Ijaw LGA of the state, was attacked by four suspected cultists at Okaka suburb of Yenagoa and killed him with a machete. A resident of Okaka area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the victim was chased by four armed youths into a building at about 8am.

Cleric Kills, Shares Friend’s Body Parts in Lagos

A Muslim cleric, popularly known as ‘Alfa’ in the Badagry area of Lagos State, Fatai Afobaje, has been accused of conspiring with some security men in his area to kill his friend, Rafiu Suleiman (40). Police sources said after Suleiman was dead, Afobaje, along with five others, shared his remains among themselves for ritual purposes. It was gathered that what remained of the deceased was recovered by Police Force on February 16 after an intensive search. It was gathered that Afobaje and Suleiman had been friends for a long time, and the deceased had given a lot of money to the suspect. Afobaje was said to have conspired with the Chief Security Officer of the area, identified only as Tanko, to kill Suleiman on February 13. Afobaje owned up to the act, saying he divided the body with the other suspects. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed the incident.

Teenager Stabs Neighbour to Death in Fight over Money

The police have arrested an 18-year-old man, Nwabuike Enwerem, for allegedly killing his teenage neighbour, Sunday IIaya with a knife during a scuffle over money given to their younger brothers to share. The incident happened on Mulianu Street, Ajangbadi, Lagos State. The duo fought to defend their younger brothers who were given money after fetching firewood for a ceremony in the neighbourhood. After the job had been done, the suspect’s younger brother was said to have complained to him that he had been short-changed by the deceased’s younger brother. A fight was said to have broken out in the neighbourhood and before anyone knew what was happening, Enwerem, was alleged to have entered his parent’s room and dashed out with a knife with which he stabbed and killed the victim.

Gunmen Kill APC Chieftain in Plateau

Unidentified gunmen, February 16, killed a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairman of the party in Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau State, Chief Samuel Doro. The State Police spokesman, Emmanuel Abuh, confirmed the incident. Abuh said the victim was shot at a close range at his Kurra Drong residence in Jos South local council. He noted that the man was immediately rushed to the hospital after the attack where he eventually died, adding that the police are working to track down the perpetrators and bring them to book.

Naval Officer, Brother Arrested over Alleged Killing of Airport Worker

A Naval officer, Ifeanyi Chukwu, is currently undergoing investigation over an assault that led to the death of a staff of Dowutas Trolley Service, Yusuf Mohammed, at the domestic wing of Murtala Muhammed Airport on February 15. Eye witnesses said the naval officer and his brother assaulted Yusuf after the tyre of their vehicle was locked by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) officials for parking it at a drop-off zone. Chukwu and his brother claimed that the Yusuf had asked them to park the car in the drop zone. In the ensuing argument, Ifeanyi Chukwu’s brother was said to have punched Yusuf directly in the face and it was in the process of Yusuf falling that the naval officer himself (Ifeanyi Chukwu) cleared his feet off the floor and Yusuf fell with the back of his skull on paved floor and started bleeding profusely. The deceased was taken to FAAN clinic to receive first aid treatment and referred to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, where he was pronounced dead at about 12 noon.

Rape

Man Jailed 15 Years for Raping 7-Year-Old

A middle aged man, Adamu Abdullahi, was on February 19, sentenced to a 15-year jail term by a Bauchi State High Court for raping a seven-year-old girl. The convict, who was dragged before the court, presided over by Bauchi State Chief Judge, Justice Rabi T. Umar, by the state Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Dauda Yakubu, was said to have raped the minor in 2012. Justice Umar said the accused was found guilty on the ground that his voluntary confessional statement corroborated with the oral evidence tendered by the victim in which, she explained clearly how the convict forced her in to his room and had canal knowledge of her. Justice Umar added that the medical examination report released from the hospital confirmed that the little girl sustained injury as a result of rape. The judge sentenced Abdullahi to 15 years in prisons, adding that the term commenced from March 5, 2012 when he was arraigned in court.

Man in Court for Raping Four-Year-Old Girl

A 25-year-old man, Kingsley Churchill, was February 15, arraigned before an Ebute Meta Magistrate’s Court for raping a four-year-old girl. It was gathered that the victim was raped on January 24, 2015 at her parents’ house on Adeshokan Street, Ayobo, Lagos State. The case was later reported to the police after it was discovered by her parents. The defendant was arraigned on one count of sexual assault. Churchill pleaded not guilty. The Chief Magistrate, A.O. Isaac, granted him bail in the sum of N50, 000 with two sureties in like sum. The case was adjourned till March 4, 2015.

Others

Women Protest Farm Invasion, Harassment by Fulani Herdsmen

Hundreds of people, mostly women, from Ahaba Imenyi community in Isuikwuato LGA of Abia State, February 13, trooped to Umuahia, the state capital to protest the invasion of their farmlands by Fulani herdsmen, whom they accused of destroying crops and sexually harassing women who go to farms. A community leader, Ikechukwu Orunta, said that the Fulani herdsmen had taken over the entire community with their cattle which destroy the farms and defecate into the only source of water supply for the community, adding that the security agencies had not been of any help. He added that they had made several attempts to stop them to no avail and all efforts to get the security agencies to call them to order had failed. The state Governor, Chief Theodore Orji frowned at the frequent reports of untoward activities of the Fulani herdsmen in Abia communities, saying that the hospitality of the state should not be abused. He assured that government would promptly wade into the matter and resolve it in few days.

Bird Flu Hits Bauchi, over 4,500 Birds Culled

The avian influenza, also known as bird flu, has hit three local government areas of Bauchi State with no fewer than 14,666 spices of birds affected by the disease out of which about 4,508 have so far been culled. The Director, Veterinary Services, in the state Ministry of Animal Resources and Nomadic Resettlement, Dr Bala Lucshi, who disclosed this on February 15, said that the outbreak affected five farms in Bauchi, Katagum and Toro LGA. Luckshi informed that the birds culled by officials from the ministry included chickens, turkeys and pigeons. The director stated that samples taken from the affected farms had been sent to the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom, Plateau State, for laboratory confirmation of the disease in the state.

JTF Destroys 7 Illegal Refinery Camps in Bayelsa

Operatives of the Joint Task Force (JTF) in the Niger Delta have destroyed seven illegal refinery camps in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. Spokesman of the Task Force, Lt. Col Isa Ado, in a statement in Yenagoa on February 16, also disclosed that its operatives arrested a suspect believed to be among the gunmen that attacked JTF troops and carted away rifles at Shells location, Patrick water side, Bodo City in Gokana council of Rivers state.

Hoodlums Invade Buhari’s Maiduguri Rally

Six people were feared dead, with 12 injured in Maiduguri, Borno State, on February 16, as hoodlums disrupted the presidential campaign rally of General Muhammadu Buhari (retd) of All Progressives Congress (APC). At least, 12 persons were also injured in the attack that led to vandalizing of Channels TV equipment, Ramat Square rails and gates, and the campaign office of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The killings and vandalism took place at Bulunkutu ward and Kashim Ibrahim Way, in Maiduguri. The scheduled commissioning of some projects by Buhari was suspended because of the rowdiness of the mammoth crowd of youths and women, including hoodlums, who participated in the fracas. Trouble, it was learned, started when the three gates to Ramat Square, venue of the rally, were closed by security operatives as at 10am to control the massive crowd of people entering the square before Buhari’s arrival from the Shehu’s palace in Maiduguri. Buhari could not address the crowd as security personnel immediately whisked him away from the podium.

Cholera Outbreak Claims 6 in Ebonyi Communities

At least six persons were, February 19, confirmed dead while eight others were hospitalized following cholera outbreak in three communities in Ebonyi state. The State Director of Public Health and Disease Control, Dr. Christian Achi, who confirmed the outbreak, said that government health officials had been mobilized to the affected communities and some of the victims in critical condition had been stabilized. He attributed the outbreak of the disease to lack of personal hygiene, portable water and toilet facilities. The Director advised the people to ensure regular hand-washing with running water to avoid transmission of diseases in various communities across the state.

Police Arrest Four Suspects over Theft of 7,365 PVCs, INEC Registers

Delta State Police Command has arrested four persons for allegedly stealing 7,365 Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs and registers at Oghara, Ethiope West Local Government Area of the state. A staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in the area, Ajiah Adewale had made a statement to the police in Oghara that gunmen broke into INEC’s office in Oghara and made away with the cards and register. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Celestina Kalu, disclosed that the police quickly swung into action and arrested the security guards of the commission, adding that the stolen PVCs and a register had been recovered and handed over to INEC. Kalu said investigation was still on to ensure that all those involved in the crime were brought to book.

Protesters Storm INEC Office in Lagos, Demand PVCs

Some residents of Lagos State, February 19, marched to the state’s headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission at Yaba to demand the release of their Permanent Voter Cards (PVC). The protesters were received by officials of the commission, led by the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Akin Orebiyi. Policemen from some police divisions in the state were also on hand to forestall a breakdown of law and order, as they formed a human shield around the INEC officials. The protesters, in their address, alleged that INEC was being partial in the distribution of the PVCs, adding that some officials of the electoral body had been compromised.

Review/Analysis

The increasing activities of armed robbers and criminal gangs took the front stage this week with stories of bank robbery to carjack, and other related crime stories fill the airwaves. Businessmen, the rich in the society are prominent in the list of victims, particularly in the south-western part of the country and a few of these in the south-south region of the nation.

Terrorism related activities have consistently stayed top in recent times. But the Nigerian military troops, with help from neighbouring countries, has recorded major victories against the Boko Haram sect. According to the Defence Head Quarters (DHQ), over 300 terrorist were killed within the week under review as the military celebrated the liberation of 11 towns from the deadly Boko Haram sect. The north-eastern part of the country bears the brunt of these vicious terrorist attacks.

Murder/assassination, although showing signs of abatement, in recent times has maintained its place on the crime index as murder related stories stare daily into the eyes of societal peace. Though the authorities have constantly made arrest of suspects, the public should be mindful and careful of their daily activities so as not to fall victims to criminals and their cohorts.

Security consciousness remains the watch word. Government Security agents have continued to urge persons living in the country to remain alert to threats and promptly report any perceived threat, strange behaviour or movement noticed to the appropriate authorities for investigation as such could prevent threats from becoming incidents.

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