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Latest News: Training and recruitment is ongoing - Wednesday, 02 March 2011 22:54

week 12

SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY

S/N

CATEGORY

MAJOR INCIDENTS

1

Kidnap/Hostage

6

2

Robbery

4

3

Gang

8

4

Drugs

2

5

Maritime Incidents

6

Terrorism

9

7

Political/Government Agencies

2

8

Murder/Assassinations

11

9

Rape Incidents

1

10

Others

3

Review/Analysis

Kidnap/Hostage Incidents

Kidnapped Septuagenarian Regains Freedom

A 75-year old woman, Mrs Virginia Arinze, mother of a former Commissioner in Anambra State, Chief Ken Arinze, who was kidnapped on February 21, has regained freedom. State Commissioner of Police, Hosea Karma, on March 6 disclosed that the woman was rescued on February 27 at Obinofia Ndiuno in Ezeagu, Enugu State. He said the police and other security agencies would not relent in making the state crime free. Karma said that the kidnappers were traced to Enugu state by his men following a tip-off after the woman’s family had paid N2.5million ransom to the hoodlums. He said the two suspects were gunned down during gun challenge with the police, adding that 13 other suspected kidnappers were arrested. Karma said that some of the items recovered from them included four AK47 riffles, English pistol and seven rounds of 9mm ammunition.

Two Jailed 18 Years for Abducting SSG’s Son

An Asaba high court, presided over by Justice Cletus Emifoniye, on March 5, sentenced two kidnappers of Delta State Secretary to the State Government’s (SSG’s) son, Pastor Mackson Macaulay, to 18 years in jail. The convicts, Sunday Ugbebo (28) and Odioko Omovigho (31) were sentenced to four years each on the count of conspiracy and five years each for kidnapping, having pleaded guilty to the two-count charge. The prosecutor from the state Ministry of Justice had told the court that the duo and another, who died as a result of injuries, had kidnapped Macaulay on June 18, 2012 at Owhelogbo, Isoko North LGA. The kidnappers, who were armed with AK47 rifles shot sporadically to prevent any resistance, demobilised his car by shooting his four tyres and whisked him away in their operational Golf car to an unknown destination.

Gunmen Kidnap Syrian in Nasarawa, Demand N50m Ransom

A Syrian national, Mah Fath Nagor, working with RIM Construction Company in Nasarawa State, was on March 9, abducted by gunmen, who have demanded the sum of N50 million as ransom for his release. Investigations revealed that the kidnappers invaded the company, in the early hours of the day, shooting sporadically. Witnesses said Nagor, who was kidnapped alongside one other staff member, was said to have been trailed from home, as he was abducted while alighting from his vehicle. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ismaila Numan, confirmed the abduction, saying efforts were on by both the police and soldiers to track down the kidnappers.

Police Arrest 7, Rescue Businessman after Ransom Payment

The Oyo State Police Command says it rescued 78-year-old owner of Bond Chemicals and Chief Adebowale Omotoso, in Ajia, a remote village in Oyo State on March 11. Omotoso, who was kidnapped on March 4, is also the National Life Vice President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry Mines and Agriculture. Those arrested in connection with the crime are mother of three, Bisi Babatunde (32), who is based in Port Harcourt; Oladipupo Abayomi (23), Alabi Olufemi who is the gang driver; Isiaka Kazeem, Ayobami Musa (23), Ajayi Olaniyi (40) and Shittu Olaide (28). Two other suspects escaped with bullet wounds, one of them a key member, simply identified as Lucky. Confessing her role in the crime, Babatunde said she was known as Vivian in Port Harcourt, where she claimed to be a trader in herbs.

Gunmen Kidnap APC Assembly Candidate in Bauchi

Gunmen, on March 9, kidnapped the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Bauchi State House of Assembly seat for Ganjuwa West constituency, Alhaji Yusuf Dadiye. He was said to have been kidnapped on Monday night on his way to Miya from Bauchi. Confirming the incident to newsmen, the Area Commander in charge of the Central Zone of the Nigeria Police, ACP Bassey Udoh, said investigation was ongoing to apprehend the culprits and bring them to justice. The driver of the kidnapped politician, Danliti Rungo, said the abductors who were in a black 406 Peugeot salon car, forced them to stop at gunpoint. Danliti said the abductors took Dadiye away immediately to an unknown destination. Meanwhile, the family of the abducted politician has called on security agents in the state to embark on intensive search to rescue the Dadiye from captivity.

Two Arrested over Kidnap of Female Worshipper in Port Harcourt

Two persons have been arrested by the police in Rivers State over alleged connection with the abduction of a woman, Mrs Woryi, who was attending church service on March 8 along Echue Street in Diobu area of Port Harcourt. The state Commissioner of Police, Dan Bature, who confirmed the arrest of the two suspects on March 10, said the duo was arrested based on distress call from members of the public, when the kidnap took place. According to Bature, based on information from the public, the policemen went in pursuit of the two suspected abductors and they were arrested, while others escaped into the creeks. Bature added that the two suspects had confessed to the crime and gave useful information to the police, assuring that the other persons in connection with abduction would soon be arrested and the victim would be rescued.

Robbery

Lagos Police Nab Suspected Robbers after Months of Search

Operatives of the Lagos State Investigative Bureau (SCIB), March 6, announced the arrest of two members of a four-man robbery gang in Lagos which specialises in terrorising residents of Isolo, Oshodi, Ikeja and its environs. The suspects, identified as Ihenachor Samson, 25 and Raphael Ugbekele, 33, were arrested after successfully carrying out a robbery operation in Bucknor Estate in Isolo, Lagos. The investigation paid off months after as the operatives tracked the suspects to their hideout and arrested Samson, and subsequently arrested Raphael too.

Armed Robbers Lay Siege on Ado Ekiti Estate

A 7-man armed robbery gang, March 7, attacked and robbed residents of Fajuyi Housing Estate, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State of their belongings. The robbers were said to have raided several houses, and stripping people of their belongings including money, laptops, handsets, jewelry, etc. The general chairman of the housing estate, Ayo Orebe, said the armed men raided 6 households within two and a half hours of operation. No arrest was made as the robbers successfully carried out their operation without police intervention.

Police Foil Robbery Operation in Delta State

Police operatives in Delta State, March 10, foiled an armed robbery operation and recovered money stolen at gunpoint from one of their victims in Warri. It was gathered that the hoodlums who numbered over five and were fully armed with sophisticated weapons were on robbery raid, robbing from place to place when information got to the police in Enerhen area of the oil city. The suspects were said to have been shooting sporadically to scare residents of Water Resources Area away, making many of them lock themselves indoors to avoid been hit by stray bullets. Police Public Relations Officer, Celestine Kalu, said upon the receipt of the report of the robbery operation by the hoodlums, a police detachment was dispatched to the scene, and on sighting the cops, the suspects zoomed off but they were given a hot chase by the officers and as a result they ran into a swamp and escaped but abandoned the operational car and loot.

Gunmen Kill Four Policemen, Three Others during a Bank Robbery

About four policemen and three civilians were on March 12, shot dead by armed robber, who had just robbed a bank at the Lekki Phase 1 area of Lagos. The gang members, numbering about 12, were said to have gained access to the bank using speedboats, with which they had crossed the channel. Once they alighted from their speedboats, the heavily armed gang stormed the bank and allegedly made away with huge sums of money but not without some casualties. Immediately they finished their operation, which reportedly lasted just about 25minutes, they hit the road to go back to their speedboat. They were said to have released hails of bullet that hit the four policemen, a member of staff of the bank, a nearby fish seller and a passerby. The state Police Spokesman, Kenneth Nwosu, said the Commissioner of police has already swung into action in a bid to arrest the gunmen.

Gang Incidents

Nine Feared Killed in Renewed Attacks in Plateau

Nine persons have been killed in an attack and reprisal between Fulani and Berom tribes of Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau State. It was gathered that two Fulani travellers were allegedly killed by a Berom mob on March 8 while the mob was protesting against the arrest of two armed youths by the Special Task Force (STF) deployed to the area. The killing of the two Fulanis led to a reprisal by the Fulani with the killing of a family of seven on March 9. The state Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Haruna Boro Hussaini, confirmed that a Fulani woman and her travelling companion were attacked and killed by a Berom mob. The STF Media and Information Officer, Captain Ikedichi Iweha, confirmed the arrest of two youths suspected to have planned to attack Sho village. Two AK47 riffles were recovered from them.

Transport Unions Clash in Osun

No fewer than two persons were severely injured while six commercial buses were vandalised on March 7 when rival transport union members clashed in Osogbo, the Osun State capital. Authorities of the Police command in the state have however assured that the alleged perpetrators of the violence would be made to face full wrath of the law. Sources disclosed that trouble started when members of two rival transport groups started a clash against each other, over the re-absorption of some expelled members. It was also alleged that members of Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) in a park located in Ota Efun, had stormed another park being controlled by Nigeria Association of Cooperative Transporters (NACT) located at Kobo Area of Osogbo and attacked those people met on ground. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Folasade Odoro said some people have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Six Killed as Violence Continues in Plateau

Violence continued in Plateau State as gunmen swooped on Takowok and Rahol Gasa villages of Barkin Ladi LGA of the state, killing at least six persons. It was gathered that two men including a member of the state security outfit, Operation Rainbow, were attacked and killed at a farm in Takowok village on March 10, while four others were killed in Rahol Gasa on March 11. The village head, Boyi Deme said a woman named Evelyn and her two-year old son, Chuwang were also killed in the attack.

Hemp Smokers Clash in Osun

There was pandemonium in Sabo area of Osogbo in Osun State as suspected hemp smokers engaged in a clash on March 11. Crisis erupted when some youths, said to be smoking India Hemp on the premises of AUD Elementary School, attacked a man with dangerous weapons. The rampaging youths, also attacked four other people in the area, before security men could bring the situation under control. A resident of the area, who pleaded anonymity, disclosed that before the daybreak, the crisis had spread to other parts of the neighbourhood while a shop belonging to one Olawale Jimoh, was vandalised by some rampaging Hausa youths. The timely intervention of anti-riot policemen from Osun State Police command restored normalcy to the area.

Three Die as Political Parties Clash in Cross River

No fewer than three persons are feared dead after supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party clashed during a political rally in Ekori, Yakurr LGA of Cross River State on March 9. The clash reportedly started when youths loyal to PDP tried to disrupt the campaign train of the LP candidate for the Yakurr/Abi Federal Constituency, Dr. Alex Egbona. Egbona, who was the immediate past Chief of Staff to Governor Liyel Imoke, was scheduled to visit Ekori as part of his campaign tour to solicit for votes for the March 28 election but was barred by youths from entering the community. Ekori is the hometown of the incumbent House of Representatives member, Bassey Ewa. The Divisional Police Officer in charge of Yakurr Division, Mr. Kabiru Salisu, confirmed the incident.

Police Arrest Notorious Cultist in Nasarawa

The Nasarawa State Police Command, on March 10, confirmed the arrest of a notorious cultist, Tony Jaco, for allegedly masterminding the killing a middle aged man on February 14 and one Mr. Campus on March 1. The prime suspect, popularly known as Too-Nice, was apprehended alongside two of his accomplices at Tundun-Gwandara in Lafia LGA of the state by men of the State Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ismaila Numan, confirmed the arrest, saying they were under investigations. It will be recalled that Campus was murdered, few days after he led members of SARS to the residence of some cultists, where they were arrested.

Gang Attacks Police Team, Frees Arrested Suspect

A gang of 7 hoodlums, March 6, attacked a police team at the Marine Beach area of Lagos after one of their members, identified simply as Frank, was arrested. The team, which was reportedly led by one Inspector Peter Oghogho, had come from the Ijora Police Division around 12pm on the fateful day to bust a joint used by some hoodlums. It was learnt that the gang attacked the policemen and wrestled Frank from them. It was learnt further that the mob fled the scene after they had succeeded in freeing the suspect. However, two of them – Sylvester Oche, 32, and 54-year-old Anthony Giobogunwre – were eventually apprehended by the cops. The police said they were still on the trail of other fleeing members of the gang.

Gunmen Attack Benue Village, Kill 5

An attack by gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen has destroyed Jootar community in Logo LGA of Benue State, killing about five persons. Several others were abducted during the attack. The armed militia invaded the Jootar community and burnt houses and farm produce. Affected residents of the attacked area said that the gunmen stormed the place on March 7 and 8. According to them, the insurgents have surrounded all other neighboring communities and are planning to launch further deadly attacks on the agrarian communities. This is coming just as the suspected herdsmen have abducted scores of farmers in Vaase area including women and children. The special assistant to the governor on media and public affairs, Chief Joseph Anawa, an indigene of the area, noted that the attacks have persisted even as security operatives are stationed in the areas. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ezeani Amaechi, confirmed the attacks, adding that heavily armed policemen had been deployed to the areas to prevent further attacks.

Drugs

NSCDC Raids Hideouts of Drug Peddlers, Arrests 14 in Jigawa

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Jigawa, March 8, announced the arrest of 14 suspected drugs peddlers. The state Commandant of NSCDC, Muhammad Gidado, disclosed that the suspects were arrested in Dutse during a raid carried out by men of the command. According to him, a large consignment of illicit drugs was recovered from the suspects. The Commandant listed the drugs to include 37 packets of Diazepam tablet (10mg), 21 bottles of Exol syrup and 40 packets of Exol tablet (100mg). He said others were 18 pieces of Red Sun energy drink, 24 sachets of Tramal tablet (200g) 120 bottles of Codeine syrup and 100 sachets of Rubber Solution. Gidado said that the suspects would be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action.

Man Remanded in Prison for Importing Marijuana

A Federal High Court in Lagos presided over by Justice Okon Abang, on March 11, ordered the remand in prison custody of a middle-aged man, Ukpabi Favour, over alleged importation of India Hemp into the country. Favour, a physically challenged man, was accused of importing 6.9 kilogrammes of the contraband substance from Ghana. According to the operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Favour was apprehended on September 28, 2014 at the agency’s checkpoint at Seme Border. When the one count was read to him, the accused, promptly pleaded guilty to the charges.

Maritime

Terrorism

Nearly 100 Killed in Maiduguri Multiple Explosions

Nearly 100 persons were killed in multiple bomb explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State on March 7. The Borno State Commissioner of Police, Clement Adoda, confirmed 58 deaths and 139 injured after the explosions at three spots, while more persons died at the hospital. Another bomb attack, March 8, on a market in Borno State led to the death of five persons, a member of the youth vigilante group disclosed. He disclosed that the insurgents had planted a bomb at the Beneisheikh market, causing the death of 5, while 15 others were injured. Eyewitness accounts said the explosions occurred at two of the city’s markets simultaneously at about 12pm and a bus terminus.

Chad, Niger Launch Air, Ground Strikes against Boko Haram
…As Troops Record More Victories

Niger and Chad troops, March 8, launched major ground and air strikes in the North-East against Boko Haram, after the militants formally pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria. The attacks, which followed a sustained build-up of troops in southern Niger, have opened up a new front in regional efforts to wipe out the Islamist group, whose six-year insurgency has spread across borders. The Nigerian troops also recaptured Buni Yadi town, the headquarters of Gujba Local Government Area and Buni Gari town both in Yobe State from the terrorists. Aircraft targeted Boko Haram positions on March 7 and 8 as heavy gunfire ensued. The armies have claimed series of successes in rebel-held territories in recent weeks. The Director of Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade, said the Nigerien and Chadian attacks were “complementary to the ongoing push against the terrorists.

Bomber Dies Attempting to Bomb Bridge in Borno

One bomber died on March 7 in a failed bid to blow off the Beneisheikh Bridge. The Beneisheikh Bridge is on the Maiduguri/Damaturu highway, which remains perhaps the safest road to and from Maiduguri due to the activities of the Boko Haram Islamic sect. The attempt was made just moments after the Muslims Zuhr prayers. The male suicide bomber was seen driving towards the military and civilian JTF checkpoints at the tail of the bridge but before he could get to them, the vehicle exploded leaving the driver dead.

Military Kills Scores of Terrorists in Adamawa

Hundreds of the terrorists fleeing from the ongoing military onslaught in the north/east, March 4, met their waterloo in Gombi town, Gombi LGA of Adamawa State. Colonel Sani Usman, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, disclosed that the insurgents were engaged by troops of 23 Brigade Nigerian Army in a gun battle that led to killing of quite a number of them, destruction  and recovery of vehicles, motorcycles,  various calibre of weapons and ammunitions. “These include 4 Hilux vehicles, 3 Anti-Aircraft guns and one .50 inch Browning Machine Gun. Others include 5,000 rounds of 12.7 millimetre ammunitions, 2 boxes of .50 inch ammunitions, 1,000 rounds of Light Machine Gun ammunitions and one Rocket Propelled Grenade 7 tube, as well as one General Purpose Machine Gun.

Military Recaptures Bama as More Insurgents are Killed

The Nigerian military recorded a major victory on March 10 with the recapture of Bama, a historic Kanuri town and the second largest city in Borno State after Maiduguri. The town had been under Boko Haram occupation since September 2014. A military source said the Nigerian troops did not meet any serious resistance from the sect in Konduga and Bama towns, confirming the view that the strength of the terrorist group might have been whittled down since the commencement of the current campaign. Just as Maiduguri residents were coming to terms with more bomb attacks in the city, eight persons were also killed and 15 others injured in a Boko Haram ambush on the Maiduguri-Damaturu highway on March 10.

42 Killed in Fresh Boko Haram Attacks in Borno

Thirty-four persons were, on March 10, killed and 12 wounded in a fresh bomb attack on the Monday Market in Maiduguri, Borno State. It was gathered that the bomb was planted in the crowded part of the Monday Market by suspected Boko Haram members. Eight others were killed and 15 others injured in another highway ambush by members of Boko Haram at Ngamdu, a village along the Maiduguri/Damaturu Road same day. Just as   security operatives cordoned off the Monday Market, pandemonium broke out at the Baban-Layin   Electronics Market, Maiduguri when a yet-to-be detonated bomb was uncovered by some traders. The market has witnessed about five explosions this year. The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, confirmed   in a statement that troops killed a large number of the insurgents.

Nigerian Troops Dislodge Boko Haram from Lame-Burra Forest

Troops from 33 Brigade of the Nigerian Army on March 11 concluded the dislodgement and clearing of Boko Haram terrorists from Lame-Burra forest, which traverses Ningi and Torro LGAs of Bauchi State. Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, disclosed that a number of terrorists were killed during the operation, and their weapons and equipment destroyed. Usman said during the operation, a sizeable number of arms, ammunitions and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) were recovered. He said the recovery included three Hilux vehicles, 12 motorcycles, four AK-47 rifles, one Fabrique Nationale rifle, one small machine gun (SMG), one police teargas pistol, 36 primed IEDs, 56 rifles magazines, over 500 rounds of 7.62 millimeter ammunition, six jerry cans of groundnut and palm oil and several IED-making materials, amongst others.

Four Soldiers Die as Troops Uncover Yobe Bomb Factory

Four soldiers died in the course of the operation to clear terrorists from Buni-Yadi, Gujba LGA of Yobe State as troops uncovered a bomb-making factory, where the improvised explosives devices, used by terrorists, are being produced. The soldiers were reportedly killed by explosions while clearing the IEDs, which the terror group, Boko Haram, had deployed in different parts of the town. A large quantity of IEDs, including those said to be commonly used by suicide bombers, were recovered from the site on March 8. A statement by Director, Defence Information, Maj. Gen. Chris Olukolade, March 13, said the factory, which was located in a fertilizer company, had converted some of the materials there for production to all types of IEDs.

Troops Free Adamawa of Terrorists —Army

The Nigerian troops have succeeded in clearing terrorists out of Madagali, which is the last place held by the terrorists in Adamawa State. Director, Defence Information, Major-General Chris Olukolade, on March 11, disclosed that there was no casualty on the side of the Nigerian forces, which included the Army, Air Force and other security agencies. He, however, said mopping up was on-going, as more details will be provided by the Defence Headquarters.

Political/Government Agencies

France Moves to Increase Troops to Support Battle against Boko Haram

In a move aimed at completely annihilating the terror group, Boko Haram, France has committed to increasing its West African counter-insurgency force to support regional forces fighting Boko Haram, French Defence Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, disclosed on March 11. France has headquartered its more than 3,000-strong Sahel counter-insurgency force, Barkhane, in the Chadian capital N'Djamena, some 50 km (30 miles) from the Nigerian border. Until now, those troops have largely been tasked with tracking al Qaeda-linked militants spanning the Sahara from Mauritania in the west and southern Libya in the east. He said the troops would provide support to forces fighting around Lake Chad, where Boko Haram has in recent months increasingly threatened regional border countries.

Kogi CP Warns against Illegal Arms Possession

The Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, Mr Samuel Adeyemi Ogunjemilusi, March 7, warned ethnic militias and criminals in the state to surrender the arms and ammunition in their possession or face the wrath of the law. He assured that there would be no hiding place for criminals as the command under his watch will do everything possible to safeguard the state, but however, advised residents of the state to report all criminal activities to the police assuring of crime reduction rate in the state as well as crime free forthcoming general elections. The State governor, Captain Idris Wada, urged the people to eschew bitterness and embrace peace as those who create crisis would live to be consumed by the same crisis, assuring that government is working out plans at rehabilitating the people of the war torn area.

Murder/Assassinations

Gunmen Kill 9 in Port Harcourt Attacks

Gunmen again went on rampage as they struck in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, killing at least nine persons in two separate attacks on March 7. The first incident, which claimed four lives, occurred along Eastern-Bypass area of the Marine Base, while the second occurred some few hours later, along a popular hotel in Oroworukwo Community in the D/Line area where 5 persons were killed by gunmen. It was gathered that the assailants, suspected to be members of a cult group, stormed a restaurant close to the bridge along the road and shot four persons dead, while others sustained bullet wounds.

Wife Bludgeons Husband to Death

A woman, Grace Agbo, has been arrested for the killing of her husband, Elijah Agbo, in Enugu. She was believed to have hit her husband on the head with a heavy object while he was asleep on March 5. The Enugu State Police spokesman, Ebere Amarizu, who confirmed the incident, said it was not clear yet what the motive behind the attack was. The couple had been married for about 13 years. The incident happened after the accused reportedly asked their 12-year-old daughter, Deborah, to go to bed. But soon after Deborah went into her room, she heard the sound of a heavy thud and she reportedly ran out to see what was happening, when she met her father lying in a pool of his own blood. It was discovered that the mother had used a big stick to hit the husband on the head, which allegedly caused him severe injury, forced him to fall down, and became unconscious instantly before finally dying from the heavy blow to his head.

Man Arrested for Killing 20-Year-Old

The Taraba State Police Command, March 11, announced the arrest of a 30-year-old man, Javoh Dubi, for allegedly killing a 20-year-old man, Adamu Umaru. The state Commissioner for Police, Nyats Jatau, said that on the 20th January, 2015, the command received information from the officer in charge of Nyaja Police post that Javoh Dubi of Lanko Village via Yarro LGA of state fought with 3 persons of Tola Village via Mayo-Belwa LGA of Adamawa State who were grazing on his farm land. According to the CP, when Javoh chased three of them out of his farm, they attacked him and it resulted to a fight. He noted that in that process, Javoh Dubi ran into his house and took a bow and arrow and shot Adamu Umaru to death.

Police Confirms Killing of PDP Chieftains by Gunmen in Benue

The Police in Benue, March 11, confirmed the killing of two chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at Gbinde village in Ushongo LGA of the state by gunmen. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Austin Ezeani, said that the deceased, Agbatse Tarkighir and Degeh Ayaahemba, were PDP leaders at council level. Ezeani said the victims were traveling from Katsina-Ala to Adikpo on March 11 when another vehicle overtook the bus conveying them and suddenly opened fire on them. Ezeani said the motive of the killing had yet to be established, but assured that the police would not rest until the culprits were brought to book. He appealed to the people to desist from all acts of criminality, especially the killing of innocent people.

Gunmen Kill NURTW Chief in Lagos

The Chairman, National Union of Road Transport Workers, Yaba Unit, Babajide Dosunmu, was on March 10, killed by some yet-to-be identified gunmen. Forty six-year-old Dosunmu, who was also said to be the Vice Chairman, Lagos Mainland branch of the NURTW, was reportedly shot dead at the back of his house by the assailants while parking his car. It was learnt that the incident happened shortly after the deceased returned from his office on Cemetery Street. The gunmen, it was gathered, had trailed him from the office to his house, promptly opening fire on him. The Lagos State Police spokesperson, Kenneth Nwosu, disclosed that the police have commenced investigation. Efforts will be made to get the culprits.

3 Killed as Governor’s Campaign Turns Bloody

Three persons lost their lives when as the campaign tour of Borno State Governor, Kashim Shettima, turned bloody at Southern Borno on March 7 when alleged supporters and political thugs of the governor descended on protesting youths, primary school teachers and local government workers. They were said to be protesting over the sack of more than 6,000 primary school teachers, lack of implementation of the N18,000 minimum wage and failed promises for youth empowerment at the local government level. It was learnt that the protesters were attacked with dangerous weapons by the supporters of the governor when the security operatives attached to him could not stop the protesters from pelting his convoy with stone and hurling abusive words at the person of the governor. The thugs reportedly killed three people who were throwing stones at the governor and injured many others during the protest.

Community Protests Killing of 38-Year-Old Leader

Hundreds of residents and indigenes of Oteri in Ughelli North LGA of Delta State, March 7, took to the streets to protest alleged extra-judicial killing of the vice chairman of the community, Mr. Blessing Unuesefe by law enforcement agents. They appealed to Delta State government and Commissioner of Police to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Speaking on behalf of the protesters, chairman and secretary of the community, Mr. Uteme Bateren and Dominic Egbonodje respectively, said though the community did not condone any form of criminality, the position of things surrounding the killing of the 38-year-old Blessing Unuesefe called for proper investigation by the authorities.

Police Accused of Extra-Judicial Killing of Scavenger over N200

An overzealous police officer from ‘C’ Division in Kogi State Police Command, March 8, shot dead a scavenger in Lokoja over the deceased’s refusal to give him N200 tip. The development caused a heavy traffic on the ever-busy Ganaja road as friends and colleagues of the scavenger took to the street burning tyres and disturbing vehicular movement. An eye witness said the Policemen who were on routine visit to the site at 200 housing units, where the scavengers usually gather their wares for onward sale to interested buyers, shot him twice in the head after his refusal to part with the usual weekly stipends which resulted in a heated altercation. It, however, took the intervention of men of the SARs to disperse the protesters.

Man Attacks, Kills Elder Brother in Imo

A man simply identified as Ihechukwu, Umungwa community of Obowo LGA in Imo State, has been accused of stoning his elder brother, Kingsley Nwabueze (42), to death on March 7. A villager disclosed that Ihechukwu trailed his brother to an eatery and allegedly attacked him dangerous weapons, including bottles and knife. Kingsley, who had already lost a lot of blood, no longer had the strength to run away from his attacker. As he tried to get help, the accused threw bricks at him, leading to his death. Ihechukwu reportedly dragged the lifeless body to his room and thereafter, took to his heels.

Ritual Killers Behead 20-Year-Old Lady

Some suspected ritual killers have beheaded 20-year-old Memuna Galadima, the daughter of Mustapha Galadima, the Special Adviser on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to Governor Umaru Al-Makura. Mustapha, who confirmed his daughter’s murder, disclosed that Memuna, had on February 26, 2015, left home for school along with three of her friends and never returned home until her headless and decomposing body was found 3 days later along Agwan Ozoro, in the Karshi development area of Nasarawa State. It was suspected that her assailants might have decapitated her before throwing her remains inside the well. It was also said the people responsible were ritual killers. The Police Public Relations Officer, Umaru Ismaila, said that investigation into the incident was ongoing.

Police Arrest Man for over Murder of Herdsman

The Ekiti State Police Command has arrested a 30-year old man, Moses Ofega, for allegedly killing a Fulani herdsman. Ofega has allegedly confessed that he shot at the Fulani man by mistake after they engaged in a bout over the destruction of his farm by the deceased’s cattle. The alleged murder was committed on March 4. Police spokesman, Alberto Adeyemi, disclosed that members of the Fulani community in the town reported the alleged murder at the police station before detectives took all the necessary actions to get Moses arrested. Police spokesman, revealed that the suspect allegedly killed the herdsman in the bush and poured charcoal on him and set him ablaze in an attempt to cover his track.

Rape

Man, 78, Accused of Raping 6-Year-Old in Ebonyi

A 78-year-old man, Oji Nnachi, has allegedly raped a six-year-old girl in Ebonyi State. Father of the victim, Nnachi Ndukwe, who expressed shock and disappointment on March 10, accused the septuagenarian of being in the habit of raping young girls in the community and called on the police to ensure that the suspect was arrested and prosecuted in line with laws of the land. Contacted, the state police spokesman, ASP Chris Anyanwu, said his office was yet to be furnished with report of the incident. He, however, added that any suspect arrested for committing such a crime would be prosecuted according to the law.

Others

JTF Arrests 28 for Illegal Bunkering

The special squad of the Joint Task Force (JTF) has arrested 28 suspected oil thieves and destroyed illegally refined products, vehicles and equipment in the Niger Delta. The Coordinator of the Joint Media Campaign Centre, Lt.Col Ado Isa, on March 11, disclosed that one of the suspects, identified as Mr Ogbe, was apprehended while attempting to bribe troops to release his seized trucks and personnel used in illegal bunkering that were earlier arrested by the JTF in Delta State. The trucks, which were reportedly filled with substance suspected to be stolen, were arrested along with the drivers of the trucks. Ogbe has reportedly confessed to being the owner of the trucks and that their contents were illegally siphoned from a pipeline. He said that troops on searching Ogbe’s car discovered a small generator, connecting hoses and welding materials used for the operation.

Fake Customs Boss Nabbed

Luck has run out on a 63-year-old man, Ramoni Raji, who was February 7, arrested by the police for allegedly impersonating an officer of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) and using same to swindle unsuspecting members of the public. The suspect is now being quizzed by detectives attached to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Lagos State Police Command for allegedly posing as Superintendent of Customs, (SC), Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) and defrauding unsuspecting members of the public with bogus customs auction sales. The arrest of Raji followed a petition by one Mrs. Uche and addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State command, Mr. Kayode Aderanti, wherein she accused Raji of swindling her of a total sum of N800, 000 while posing as a customs officer under the pretext that he and his squad would procure customs auction vehicles for her.

Police Arrest Bus Load of Ballot Boxes in Delta

The police in Issele-Uku, Aniocha North LGA, Delta State, March 12, apprehended a bus loaded with ballot boxes. The ballot boxes numbering over 30, Vanguard gathered, were dropped off by a luxury bus heading to the East from the North at Onicha-Ugbo Junction. According to a dependable source, the luxury bus had zoomed off before the people in the area could draw attention of the police to the incident, adding that a smaller bus with number plate Edo USL 832 XL, which came to pick the boxes at the junction, was arrested with the driver by the police. The source, who did not want his name in the print, said the boxes had the picture of one of the major political parties’ presidential candidate and his running mate on them. Effort made to reach the Divisional Police Officer for comments on the issue proved abortive at press time. However, a senior police officer attached to the division confirmed the arrest, and added that investigation was on to ascertain the source of the boxes.

Review/Analysis

Murder/assassination is up in the crime index with different forms of killing and assassination in the society with more cases recorded across the country.

Terrorism related incidents remain high on the crime index. The trend indicates victory as the military retakes several towns earlier seized by the insurgents through the sustained offensive attacks on Boko Haram enclaves. Major victories have been recorded against the Boko Haram sect as more and more terrorist have been killed and the insurgents appear desperate, attacking towns as they flee the military onslaught. These victories are largely aided by support to Nigerian troops by the military of neighbouring countries.

Gang related activities are on the rise, taking its toll on the public, security men and political figures. The activities notwithstanding, some arrest have been made by the Nigerian Police Force. Gang activities remain sporadic and cut across various parts and strata of the society.

Kidnap/Hostage incidents are down as there have been major arrests and killings of suspects, who resist arrest. The Police have successfully rescued some hostages and remain on the trail of other suspects.

Government Security agents continue to urge persons living in the country to remain alert to their environment and promptly report any perceived threat, strange behaviour or movement to the appropriate authorities for investigation.

Villeworth urges everyone to be security conscious to stay safe.