Weekly Security Report Weekly Report week 18 week 18
SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY
S/N | CATEGORY | MAJOR INCIDENTS |
| 1 | Kidnap/Hostage | 11 |
| 2 | Robbery | 6 |
| 3 | Gang | 2 |
| 4 | Drugs |
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| 5 | Maritime Incidents |
|
| 6 | Terrorism | 6 |
| 7 | Political/Government Agencies | 1 |
| 8 | Murder/Assassinations | 12 |
| 9 | Rape Incidents | 5 |
| 10 | Others | 10 |
|
| Review/Analysis | |
Kidnap/Hostage Incidents
Gunmen Abduct Ahoada East Council Chairmanship
Unidentified gunmen, April 18, abducted the Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of Ahoada East Local Government Council in Rivers State, Chief Cassidy Ikegbudu. It was gathered that Ikegbudu was abducted in his community, Yiboko, by gunmen dressed in military fatigue uniform after a gun battle with security personnel attached to him. Ahoada East is one of the four local government areas where house of assembly elections were rescheduled to on April 18 after the election of April 11 was declared inconclusive by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The APC House of Assembly Candidate for Ahoada East constituency 1, Eric Apia, said armed men abducted Ikegbudu from his village, Yiboko. Apia said Ahoada East was supposed to have a re-run election for the state house of assembly and that shooting began on April 17. The Rivers State police command has confirmed the incident. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ahmad Muhammad, said the police had received report of the abduction of the council chairman.
Police Rescue Abducted Housewife
Police detectives in Asaba, Delta State have rescued a 37-year-old woman from captivity after she had spent two days in kidnappers’ den. It was gathered that the criminals had, on April 14, stormed the residence of the victim, after shooting sporadically, before whisking her to an unknown destination. Confirming the kidnap and the rescue of the victim, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Celestina Kalu, disclosed that three unknown armed men stormed the house of one Chidi Ajah and kidnapped his wife. She said the kidnappers later demanded N10 million as ransom for the release of the victim. According to her, operatives of Dragon Patrol Team, acting on a tip-off, traced the Lexus Jeep to Ezi Village in Aniocha North LGA of the State where the vehicle was abandoned. The next day, a police patrol team from Onicha-Olona, acting in synergy with local vigilante, rescued the victim from kidnapper’s den located in Obomkpa bush while the kidnappers escaped. Kalu disclosed that detectives were working hard arrest the fleeing suspects.
3-Year-Old Abducted in Lagos, Rescued in Ogun
A three-year-old girl, Oluwabunmi Ajelero, who was abducted from a church in Lagos on April 19, has been rescued in Ogun State. The girl was lured by two unidentified men, who sneaked into the church premises. It was gathered that the girl was playing with other children on the church premises when the kidnappers came in through the back of the church and tricked her out with Gala, a popular sausage, before whisking her away on a motorcycle. It was learnt that the girl, was rescued in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on April 20 by the police. It was learnt that Oluwabunmi’s parents and other members of the church were inside the church immersed in the service when the incident happened. The Lagos Police spokesperson, Kenneth Nwosu, said the toddler was rescued by a police team drawn from divisions in the state.
INEC Laments Kidnap of Staff in Bayelsa
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), April 20, lamented the kidnap of some of commission’s ad hoc staff by unknown persons in Brass area of Bayelsa state. The state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Baritor Kpaghih, who confirmed the incident lamented that the ad hoc staff were held hostage at Brass and that it took the efforts of the Joint Task Force (JTF) to secure their release from irate youths who had demanded for collation sheets before the House of Assembly election could hold in the constituency. He said there was no election in the constituency as well as Ogbia II and that election will only be possible in the two areas when the communities come together and guarantee the safety of INEC personnel and materials. Kpaghih however commended what he described as partnership among some stakeholders including the media and security agencies which to a great extent resulted in peaceful polls. In the results of the House of Assembly declared so far, out of 22 constituencies, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clinched 20 seats while the All Progressives Congress (APC) and All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) won a seat each.
APGA Chieftain, Lawyer Kidnapped in Aba
Gunmen have abducted a chieftain of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Abia State, Chinedu Ikenga and an Aba-based lawyer, identified as O. O. Anya. Ikenga was said to have been abducted along Opobo Road, Ogbor Hill at about 9pm, while Anya was kidnapped at Abayi. It was gathered that the gunmen intercepted the APGA chieftain and riddled his car with bullets before whisking him away. Some of the party supporters alleged that the incident was politically motivated. When contacted, Abia State Commissioner of Police, Joshak Habila, said he was not aware of the abduction of the APGA chieftain, adding that the police had advanced efforts to rescue the lawyer. The lawyer regained his freedom on April 22. Details of his release remain sketchy.
Abducted Woman Found Dead in Warri
A staff of the Delta Printing and Publishing Company Limited (DPPCL), publishers of The Pointer Newspapers, Mrs Patricia Amitaye, April 22, died while being abducted by kidnappers. Amitaye was kidnapped on her way to Warri, along Eku road in Ethiope East LGA. Five gunmen were reported to have attacked her vehicle demanding for money on the spot. Unable to meet their request, Amitaye was allegedly dragged out of the Hilux van into the bush, leaving her driver behind. The driver quickly raised an alarm and made contacts with the woman’s husband and other family members. But her lifeless body was later found in the bush.
Woman Escapes from Kidnappers Den
A woman, Caro Botosan, on April 24, successfully escaped from the custody of her captors after nine days in captivity at Usie-ffurun forest in Ughelli South Council area of Delta State. She was said to have found her way to Usiefrun/Orhughworhum junction, where she was able to establish contact with her husband. Botosan said she was abandoned by her abductors who chained her, thinking she cannot escape. She added that, unknown to her abductors; she was privy to where they usually keep the key to the padlock used to chain her. She said when left alone in chains, she struggled to the point where the key was kept, got it, unlocked the padlock and stole out of the woods to safety. Botosan was kidnapped on April 15 when a gang of four armed men stormed the Okere community in Warri. One member of the gang was caught by the community youths and handed over to the police. The arrested kidnap suspect led police anti-kidnap crack team to the home of their leader, simply identified as “Biggy” at Agbarho community where some arrests were made.
13-Year-Old Foils Kidnap Attempt
A 13-year-old boy, Babatunde Samuel, has thwarted the alleged ploy of a 55-year-old man, Ibrahim Abdulsalami, to abduct him and two of his friends, aged 8 and 11 years, while playing football on John Ogunjobi Street in the Alagbado area of Lagos. It was learnt that Abdulsalami approached them at about 6pm on April 12 and offered them N50 to follow him to an unnamed place but the children declined the offer. Abdulsalami persisted and promised them other gifts. Samuel was said to have stylishly left the playground to inform his father, who hurriedly followed him to the spot. He was later charged with attempted kidnapping and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace by the police after he reportedly confessed to the crime. During his first appearance before a Magistrate’s Court sitting in Ijaiye-Ojokoro on April 13, the defendant was said to have pleaded guilty to the two counts preferred against him. Abdulsalami was eventually handed three months jail term by the presiding magistrate, Mrs. O.A. Olayinka.
Oil Dealer Rescued from Kidnappers in Lagos
Operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), April 22, rescued a 62-year-old oil dealer, Kudirat Adeboye, who was abducted on April 15 at Elemoro in Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos State. The kidnappers had made a demand of N50 million as ransom, threatening to kill her if their demand was not met in one week. The kidnappers were lured to a place around Lekki to pick the ransom, while SARS operatives condoned off the vicinity. A member of the syndicate, identified as Niyi Omosola, reportedly appeared to pick the money, only to be accosted by the operatives. He was said to have opened fire on sighting the policemen, but was overpowered. The suspect took the operatives to a bush around Epe, where the victim was held hostage and subsequently rescued. Police spokesman, Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed the rescue, disclosing that the kidnap suspect later died from the gun injury he sustained during the cross fire. When the police arrived at the hideout, his gang members had reportedly fled the place. Efforts were on to apprehend the remaining gang members. One double-barrelled pistol, two expended and six cartridges were recovered from the suspect.
Germany-Based Man Kidnapped in Aba
Gunmen, suspected to be kidnappers, April 20, abducted a Germany-based Nigerian, Roland Nwigwe, around Faulks Road in Aba, Abia State. The incident occurred while the victim was entering his compound. The gang of six that had allegedly demanded for N100 million ransom, later reduced it to N20 million. Nwigwe was said to have gone out to eat in a fast food, unaware that hoodlums were on his trail. The gunmen had blocked him with their vehicle and whisked him to an unknown destination.
Gunmen Kidnap LG Chairman in Bayelsa
Armed men, April 22, invaded Otuasega in Ogbia LGA of Bayelsa State and abducted the council chairman, Enaye Abah. According to eyewitnesses, four men armed with sophisticated weapons, along the Otuasega-Okarki Expressway, blocked the official vehicle of the council chairman with a blue Mazda car, believed to have been commandeered from the driver. The hoodlums were said to have demobilized the SUV conveying the chairman by firing at the front tyre, before embarking on a firing spree that rattled the sleepy settlement. The hoodlums dragged the chairman from his vehicle and transferred him into the blue Mazda and drove him away towards to Okarki waterside. The driver of the blue Mazda was reportedly shot in the leg for refusing to willingly follow the gunmen and their victim into the waiting speed boat. The gunmen reportedly set the Mazda ablaze. Bayelsa Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Asinim Butswat, confirmed the incident.
Robbery
Police Gun Down Robbery Suspects in Calabar
Two armed robbery suspects were, April 19, shot dead by operatives of the Cross River State police command in Calabar. This came barely one month after a robbery suspect was gunned downed along 8th mile axis in the state metropolis by the police. The latest incident, according to Police Spokesman, Hogan Bassey, occurred in the same area. The suspects went after a sachet dealer in the area, but were disappointed when they could not extract any cash from their victim, Bassey explained.
Police Nabs Leader of 4-Man Robbery Gang
The police in Lagos, April 18, announced that the command had apprehended a gang of armed robbers that specializes in snatching motorcycles and money from riders at gunpoint. According to the police, the four-man gang, which has hideouts in the Ishawo and Ijede areas of Ikorodu is led by 24-year-old Oladimeji Orisan. The gang had reportedly snatched over 30 motorcycles and resold them since they began operations in March 2014. It was gathered that the suspects posed as passengers, lured commercial motorcyclists in the evening to secluded areas where other gang members were waiting to rob their victims. The police said they recovered two pistols and 25 live cartridges from the gang.
Police in Ogun State Arrest Six Bandits, Recover Weapons
The Ogun State Police Command has arrested eight suspected robbers in different parts of the state, and recovered different types of arms and ammunition from the hoodlums. The suspects were arrested in Ago Iwoye, Ota and Ibafo areas of the state between April 19 and 22. In Ago Iwoye operation, police detectives attached to the division swooped on the hideout of some armed robbers at Ijesha Road, and arrested three members of the gang. The suspects were said to have terrorized the people of Ago Iwoye and its environs before they were arrested. The police recovered two locally-made guns, live cartridges, complete set of army camouflage uniform, and some masks suspected to have been used for robbery operations in the area. In the same vein, the police anti-robbery teams in Ota and Ibafo have arrested three suspected robbers, who were believed to have been terrorizing the people of the areas.
Police Smash 10-Man Gang, Kill 6, Nab 4
Police detectives in Ughelli-North, Delta State, April 21, smashed a 10-man robbery syndicate, killing six and arresting the remaining four in the outskirts of the community. The gang had engaged the police in a gunfight for close to an hour with sophisticated weapons, but they were overpowered. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Celestina Kalu, said the detectives acted on a tip-off and moved in on the robbers during their operation. After the shootout, six of the robbers lay dead, while four others were caught. The arrested suspects have made useful statements to the police, and that efforts were being made to arrest their sponsors. The hoodlums have reportedly been terrorizing residents of Ughelli North since January 2015.
Robbers Invade Jonathan’s Special Assistant’s Home in Yenagoa
Gunmen, April 18, invaded the Yenagoa residence of the Senior Special Assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan on Domestic Matters, Dr. Waripamowei Dudafa, and stole an undisclosed amount of money after destroying the safe kept in one of his rooms. Also, family sources said the gunmen were asking after him as they were ransacking the entire building looking for him. The gunmen were said to have gained entry into the premises of Dudafah after allegedly telling the security guards that they were policemen on operations from the police headquarters. An eyewitness, who craved anonymity, alleged that the attack on Dudafah’s home was politically motivated. He said the incident took place few minutes after results of some rescheduled House of Assembly polls were released and candidate backed by Dudafa on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance defeated his Peoples Democratic Party opponent in Kolokuma-Opokuma constituency.
Robbers Attack, Shoot Newspaper Editor
Armed robbers attacked and shot a Newspaper editor, Victor Ahiuma- Young, along the Oshodi-Apapa expressway in Lagos. The robbers were said to have stolen an undisclosed amount of money from him. It was gathered that Young was attacked while he was leaving the Sadiku branch of a new generation bank, where he had gone to withdraw some money. The gunmen allegedly trailed the editor from the bank to a Newspaper vendor’s stand where he intended to purchase some of the dailies. They shot him in the thigh and ordered him surrender the money in his possession. Young was said to have turned to see who the intruder were without envisaging any danger only for them to shoot him, People around scampered for safety. The hoodlums escaped with the money, using their operational motorcycle. The victim was said to have staggered on his feet and managed to walk from the bus-stop to May Clinic, where doctors gave him medical attention.
Gang Incidents
Female Cultists Attack Student in Bayelsa
Suspected female cultist in the Bayelsa State owned Niger Delta University, Ammassoma, on April 17 attacked a 17-year-old student over her refusal to join the group. The suspected cult members attacked their victim within the Hostel F and injected her with a strange substance after subjecting her to severe beating and torture. The victim of the attack is said to be the daughter of a lecturer in the school and a student of the Economics Department. While some students claimed the attack on the victim was due to domestic squabbles among roommates, others claimed the victim ran into trouble with the suspected cultists as she refuse advances to belong to the notorious cult group. When the attackers saw that the girl had fainted, they brought her out of the room in the early hours of morning, and they were apprehended.
Suspected Cultists Killed in Delta Raid
One person, identified as Fancy Anderson, was on April 20, confirmed dead in the aftermath of a raid by a combined team of local vigilante from Ughelli and other surrounding communities on a suspected cultists den in a forest at Ofuoma in Ughelli North LGA of Delta State.
Drugs
Maritime
Terrorism
Ground Troops Enter Sambisa Forest
The Nigerian Army, April 18, landed in the expansive Sambisa forest to end the terror or Islamist sect, Bok Haram. The sustained aerial bombardment by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in recent weeks has made it possible for the Army to move in for the ground operation. The Nigerian Military in the last eight weeks of sustained offensive have recaptured over 90 per cent of the territories that were once under Boko Haram occupation with the exception of Sambisa forest. However, several towns leading to the forest including Allagano have been confirmed liberated last two weeks by the Nigerian Army Director of Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, thereby clearing the way for the final onslaught.
Boko Haram Kill 2 Soldiers in Baga
Two soldiers were killed in a Boko Haram rocket attack on a military vehicle in the northeast Nigerian town of Baga, according to residents on April 21. Six other soldiers and a civilian vigilante were critically injured when their vehicle hit a mine planted by the Islamists just outside the town in Borno state. The attack and the mine explosion happened as the military escorted some 1,200 people from Baga on a brief return visit to their hometown from the Borno state capital, Maiduguri. Boko Haram seized the town on the shores of Lake Chad on January 3 and is suspected of killing hundreds in what was feared to have been the worst massacre in the six-year insurgency. Nigeria’s military said it had recaptured the town in late February, as an operation also involving Chad, Niger and Cameroon. Military spokesman Chris Olukolade said on February 21 that troops had to clear landmines planted by Boko Haram before being able to enter Baga.
Nigerian Military Kills Top Boko Haram Commander
The Nigerian military has gunned down one of the top commanders of the Boko Haram terror group during an exchange of gunfire at Alagarno, the closest major town to the infamous Sambisa forest. The Director of Defence Information (DDI), Major-General Chris Olukolade, confirmed this on April 22, saying that the terrorist kingpin, Abu Mojahid, died while leading a comeback attack on the troops on April 21. According to him, a number of the terrorists died as the troops repelled the attack. Some rocket propelled grenades (RPGs) as well as vehicle mounted anti-aircraft guns were either captured or destroyed in the encounter, he revealed. The Defence spokesman added that aggressive patrols, mop up, as well as cordon and search operations were continuing in the other locations in search for weapons and terrorists.
Two Soldiers Killed in Sect Attack
At least two Nigerian soldiers were killed and six others injured when Boko Haram members launched a rocket attack on a military convoy in Borno State, according to local sources. Sources revealed that six soldiers and three vigilante members were also injured in the attack. According to an army official, the attack occurred on April 20 near Baga, a town recently liberated from Boko Haram, which had captured it in a deadly attack in early January. He said troops and members of local vigilante groups were escorting Baga residents – who were displaced during the January attack – on a tour of the town, when they ran into the ambush. While the Nigerian army is yet to confirm the incident, Jubrin Gunda, spokesman for a local vigilante group, confirmed the attack.
Ground Troops in Sambisa Offensive, as Chad Rescues 43 Child Soldiers
Chadian army spokesman, Col. Azem Agouna, April 22, said that they had repatriated 43 children, who had been kidnapped by Boko Haram and forced to become child soldiers. He said in N’djamena that the children, who are aged 12 and older and are Chadian nationals, were found in the Nigerian town of Damasak in Borno State. Damasak was under Boko Haram control until Chadian and Nigerian forces recaptured the town in early March. Agouna said the children managed to escape during the clashes between the insurgents and soldiers, while the local families helped them to hide from the jihadists. He disclosed that when it was certain that Boko Haram had been defeated and would not return to the town, the children came out of their hiding places and asked Chadian security forces for help. The spokesman said the army would look into how and when Boko Haram abducted the children from Chad.
Landmine Kills soldier, 3 Others in Sambisa Forest
Nigerian troops were forced to retreat from Boko Haram’s Sambisa Forest stronghold in the restive northeast after a landmine blast killed one soldier and three vigilantes, security sources disclosed on April 23. Defence spokesman, Chris Olukolade, had disclosed that a senior Boko Haram commander was killed, as well as a number of militants who attacked a patrol. But progress has been severely hindered because of improvised explosive devices, a civilian vigilante involved in the operation disclosed. Troops withdrew just five kilometres from Boko Haram’s main camp in the densely forested area because of landmines. There was no immediate response from the military, which with its military coalition partners Chad, Niger and Cameroon has driven out Boko Haram from captured towns in recent weeks.
Political/Government Agencies
Jonathan sacks IGP Suleiman Abba, appoints DIG Solomon Arase
President Goodluck Jonathan, April 20, sacked the Inspector General of Police, Suleiman Abba, and has appointed DIG Solomon Arase as Acting IGP. The sack and are with immediate effect. IGP Suleiman Abba was the 17th Indigenous Inspector-General of Police and was appointed on August 1, 2014. A statement by Reuben Abati, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity), did not give the reason for the sack. Until his appointment as Mr. Abba’s replacement, Arase was the Head of the Force Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department. Arase holds Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Law, as well as Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Political Science and Strategic Studies. He is also a Fellow of the Nigerian Defence College.
Murder/Assassinations
NBA Branch Chairman Assassinated
The Chairman of the Ughelli Branch Chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Mr Austin Icheghe, was shot dead by gunmen who invaded his residence on April 16. The suspected assassins were said to have brutally murdered their victim in the presence of his wife and children. Icheghe was shot in front of his apartment while alighting from his vehicle at the close of work. The Delta State Police Command spokeswoman, Celestina Kalu, who confirmed the incident, stated that investigation into the lawyer’s death had commenced.
Boy, 14, Arrested for Stabs 18-Year-Old to Death
The police in Bauchi, April 16, arrested a 14-year-old boy, Ismael Idris, for stabbing an 18-year-old girl, one Ramatu Aminu, who later died at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Haruna Mohammed, disclosed that Idris had used a scissor to stab the deceased in the neck at a bakery, over a minor argument. He stated that the girl was rushed to ATBUTH for treatment but later died while being treated. The PPRO informed that the police were investigating the case.
Gunmen Assassinate Varsity Graduate in Delta Community
A 32-year-old man, Eugine Ujayikre Ighoesuvwo, was on April 14, killed at his residence in Ughelli, Delta State. Over 10 armed men invaded his residence in the wee hours of the day and blew his head open with a gun. Items found at the scene include a hammer, a very sharp screw driver also believed to have been used on him before the gunshot. Further details were not immediately available.
Gunmen Kill 7 in Taraba Attacks
Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen, April 21, attacked some villages in Donga LGA of Taraba State, killing at least seven persons, with scores still missing. The attackers reportedly burnt Ayiase village in Takum LGA before heading to Tse-Gbaun and Gaza villages in Donga. According to eyewitness, the gunmen killed Msugh Gaza and three of his sons in Gaza village, while the other three were killed in Tse-Gbaun and Ayiase villages. An aide of the state acting governor, Alhaji Sani Abubakar Danladi, said the acting governor had directed that military personnel be deployed in the area.
Staff of Bayelsa Assembly Shot Dead in Yenagoa
The Deputy Clerk of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Hon. Geoffrey Nemine, was on April 19, shot dead in his Yenagoa home. The deceased was shot on the head in the presence of his wife. While a police source said the deceased was hit by a stray bullet provoked by violent clash between two rival cult groups, eyewitnesses have it that the gunmen who numbered over 10 invaded the deceased’s wife’s store located in front of his house, dispossessed the woman of her cash from the day’s sales and were already leaving the scene when she raised the alarm, an action said to have angered the invaders who came back and shot the husband who was sitting in front of the shop at close range. The police, it was learnt, have arrested a suspect in connection with the killing. The state police command spokesman, Asinim Boswat confirmed the incident.
50 Killed in another Bloody Communal Clash in Benue
A communal clash between Ologba and Egba communities of Agatu over a fish pond has claimed the lives of at least 50 people in Benue State. According to a source, the villagers had been fighting over a fish pond and the renewed crisis, which began on April 17, was a result of suspicion by the Egba community that the Ologba people had organised the recent deadly Fulani invasion against them where 82 people were killed in March. The State Commissioner of Police, Hycinth Dagala, Arpil 18, said that 23 dead bodies have been confirmed while further update was being awaited. Villagers said 50 deaths occurred in Ologba as fighting continued. However, the Police stated that calm has returned to the area.
Four Shot Dead in Rivers, as APC Alleges Killers Target Members
No fewer than four persons were killed at Eleme and Okrika in Rivers State on April 18. It was gathered that two of the deceased were shot dead in Okrika LGA, while two others were killed at Eleme by unknown gunmen. The incident at Eleme was allegedly due to a clash between two rival cult groups. The All Progressives Congress (APC), in a statement on April 20, alleged that its members were still being assassinated in the state by suspected political thugs.
Gunmen Kill El-Rufai’s Campaign Coordinator
Gunmen have killed a local campaign coordinator of the Kaduna State governor-elect, Malam Nasir El-Rufai. According to El-Rufai’s spokesperson, Samuel Aruwan, who disclosed this on April 21, the gunmen trailed the deceased, Markus Ishaya, to his village, and shot him several times. According to reports, the men, two in number, were well armed and did not pick any property in his residence. The police have confirmed the incident. The police have also visited the scene of the crime and have commenced investigation.
Gunmen Kill ASP in Benue
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the killing of Mr Baba Ibrahim, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), by gunmen in Katsina-Ala, Benue State, on April 22. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Austin Ezeani, stated that the police officer was leading a special police task force on cattle rustling in the state. Ezeani explained that the deceased was attacked at the Katsina-Ala cattle market by unknown gunmen who came in a Toyota vehicle with the inscription "NAND." He disclosed that the assailants shot six other members of the team who are currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Katsina-Ala. According to him, the command had commenced a systematic raid on criminal hideouts and gun-running syndicates to flush out criminal elements in the state, as he assured that the command would ensure that the culprits were arrested and brought to book.
Taxi Driver Lynched for Beating Epileptic Patient
A mob has killed a 43-year-old taxi driver, Tunde Adetola, for allegedly beating up an epileptic patient, Friday Williams, in the Onipanu area of Lagos State. The incident happened on Awe Crescent. It was learnt that the taxi driver had visited a drinking joint on Sunday and there was a disagreement between him and the daughter of the owner of the joint. Williams was said to have intervened, which started a fight between him and the deceased. The epileptic patient was reportedly injured during the brawl. Some of Williams’ friends and street urchins reportedly swooped on Adetola, bashing him to death. Williams and one of his friends, Lucky Nnaeto, have been arrested. Williams denied instigating the mob attack, adding that he had settled the disagreement with the deceased before he was killed. Lagos State Police spokesman, Kenneth Nwosu, said the case was being investigated at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti.
Man Stabbed to Death While Separating Fight
A carpenter, Kunle Abiola, was, on April 19, stabbed to death in the Ajegunle area of Lagos while trying to separate his co-tenants, who were fighting. It was learnt that Abiola was stabbed to death with a kitchen knife in the jaw and in the chest by one of the co-tenants, Nweke Chinonso, who has since been arrested by policemen. It was learnt that the suspect had an argument with a woman in the apartment and the argument, which degenerated into a fight, brought Abiola to the scene. The deceased reportedly tried to separate the two fighters, during which Chinonso got a knife and stabbed him to death. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed the incident.
Police Hunt Killers of Jogger in Lagos
Detectives at the State Department of Criminal Investigation, Lagos State, are on the trail of killers of a jogger, who was murdered in the Morogbo, Badagry area of Lagos State. It was learnt that the yet-to-be-identified victim was stabbed in the stomach and jaw. His corpse was said to have been abandoned in a bush near Igborosun village. A 50-year-old pastor, Stephen Hensu, alerted policemen from the Morogbo division to the incident. It was learnt that the police spoke with people living around the area in a bid to find the relatives of the victim. Their efforts were said to be abortive. Initial investigation suggested that the deceased was killed by people known to him.
Rape
Father in Court for Raping Daughter
A 47-year-old man, Solomon Ojo, was on April 20 arraigned in an Ota Senior Magistrates’ Court, Ogun State for an alleged rape of his daughter. Ojo was charged with one count of rape. The prosecutor, Sergeant Rosemary Brown, told the court that the accused committed the offence sometime in 2013 at his residence when he forcefully had carnal knowledge of his daughter. The Magistrate, Miss Temitope Adebutu, granted the accused bail in the sum of N200, 000 with two sureties in like sum. Adebutu said the sureties must have landed property within the court’s jurisdiction and swear to an affidavit of means. The magistrate subsequently arraigned the case till June 3, 2015 for hearing.
Boy, 16 Defiles 2-Year-Old
A 16-year-old boy, Azeez Ganiyu, who allegedly defiled a two-year-old girl, was on April 21, arraigned before an Apapa Magistrates’ Court in Lagos. The Prosecutor, Soji Ojaokomo, told the court that the accused committed the offence on April 16 after he lured the girl to a lonely place while her mother went to get food. Ganiyu reportedly took the girl to an uncompleted building beside the house and defiled her. The girl’s mother said while she was searching for her child, she heard her screaming from an uncompleted building beside the house. When she got there, she saw Ganiyu satisfying his carnal desires with the child,” he said. In his ruling, the Magistrate, Patrick Adekomaiya, ordered that the case file should be forwarded to the State Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice. The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge. The magistrate granted him bail in the sum of N50, 000 with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case to May 5 for receipt of legal advice.
Suspected Serial Rapist Arrested in Awka
Security operatives in Awka, Anambra State have arrested a suspected fraudster, Uchenna Ugwu (26), for allegedly defrauding and raping women. The suspect, who had reportedly confessed to the crime, belonged to a syndicate, which specialized in luring ladies while pretending to be spiritualists, defrauding and raping them. It was learnt that the mode of operation of the group was to lure women into their trap and trick them into disclosing their ATM PIN codes. The victim would then be raped on the pretext of making a charm for her. He was arrested by the DSS based on petitions from some of the victims. The Director of DSS, Alex Okeiyi, said the antics of the hoodlums were many, warning members of the public, especially females, to be cautious.
Randy Robber Set Ablaze in Aba
A suspected member of an armed robbery gang terrorizing residents of Ogbor Hill, Aba, Abia State, has been set ablaze. The gang of 12 was robbing an apartment in the area when the late robber attempted to rape a married woman, but was resisted by her husband. Luck ran out on him when the owner of the house and neighbours raised alarm, which attracted other villagers, who came to the rescue of the couple while the gang fled, leaving behind the randy member, who was caught and set ablaze by the mob. A source said the gang had been terrorizing residents of the area, raping women and dispossessing them of cash and other valuables. When contacted, Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, Ezekiel Onyeke, who confirmed the incident, said that the villagers had already set the suspected robber ablaze before the police got there.
Rampaging Cultists Rape Wife, Force Husband to Watch
Suspected cult members have laid siege to Aladja in Udu LGA, Delta State, raping, maiming, stealing and intimidating residents at will. The robbers, April 21, raped a woman in the presence of her husband after stealing money and other personal effects of the victims and other residents of Aladja. The suspected cultists, numbering seven, stormed the residence of their victims at Iwhre Quarters, stole unspecified amount of cash, phones, placed a gun on the man’s head with a threat to shoot if he tried to stop them, as they took turns to rape his wife. A member of Aladja Vigilante called on the relevant security agencies and community leaders to rise to the challenge of the cultists, with a view to arresting them. He called on the residents to feed them and the police with relevant information that could lead to arrest of suspected cultists around them.
Others
Ondo Deaths Linked to Poisonous Gin
The death of the 18 people in Ondo State in a mysterious circumstance has been linked to a local gin, otherwise known as ‘Ogogoro,’ that was contaminated with poisonous material (methanol). The Minister of State for Health, Fidelis Nwankwo, disclosed this on April 20. According to the minister, “Epidemiological findings indicate a strong linkage of the outbreak with the consumption of a local gin that may have been contaminated with methanol (poisonous material). He noted that preliminary laboratory investigations indicated that the outbreak cannot be attributed to any infectious organism. Meanwhile, the state government has called for the suspension of the consumption of ‘Ogogoro’ by the public, particularly residents of the communities where deaths have been recorded in Irele LGA following the discovery a strange disease in the area which has killed about 20 people.
Gunmen Disrupt Nasarawa Bye-Election, 5 Apprehended
Suspected political thugs, April 18, disrupted the bye-election for Lafia-Obi Federal Constituency in Nasarawa state, when they stormed Angwan Mangu, shot sporadically into the air and attempted to snatch election materials meant for the exercise. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared the election outcome of the April 11 Lafia-Obi Federal constituency election as inconclusive and fixed Saturday April 18 for re-run in Ciroma ward before announcing final result. Although there was no casualty due to the incidence, people scampered away to safety trying to evade the shots of the gunmen. In a swift response, security agencies drafted to cover the election at a polling unit along Jos Road in Agwan Mangu, called for reinforcement which led to the arrest of the gunmen with seven AK47 rifles in one of the vehicles they brought. The suspects were apprehended by the Police Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). Witness report also indicated that there was a shoot-out between the security operatives and the suspected thugs.
Man Bags 6 Months Jail Term Election Fraud
A Yelwa Magistrate’s court in Bauchi, has sentenced a 25-year-old man, Ya’u Ismaila, to six months imprisonment for acquiring multiple Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). According to the police prosecutor, Inspector Zakka Ayi, Ismaila was arrested at a military check point on March 28, 2015 with three different PVCs bearing three different names. The PVCs belonged to the convict, a resident of Tsohon Makabarta, Jahun in Bauchi metropolis, who got them using different names, but his picture was on them. According to Inspector Ayi, the offence committed by Ismaila was contrary to Section 129 (c) and (d) of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended), which the accused person pleaded guilty. Magistrate Kasimu M. Mohammed stated that for admitting to the charges brought against him without wasting the time of the court, he would be lenient to the accused, whom he sentenced to six-month imprisonment with an option of N100,000 fine.
Nigerians Affected in South African Xenophobic Attacks
At least 50 Nigerians, alongside other migrants, are believed to have been affected in a wave of xenophobic attacks in recent days by South Africans on foreigners, who they accused of snatching their jobs. The President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the evacuation of Nigerians from South Africa as the xenophobic attacks linger. The Nigerian Commission in South Africa will commence the evacuation of Nigerians. Nigerians have been counting their losses with the Nigerian Consul-General, Ambassador Uche Ajulu-Okeke saying the loss by Nigerians included looted shops, burnt shops, two burnt mechanic workshops, 11 burnt cars and two stolen cars, among others.
104 Arrested for Electoral Offences in Rivers
104 persons have been arrested at different locations in Port Harcourt for alleged electoral-related offences. Rivers State Police Command spokesman, DSP Ahmad Muhammad said 41 of the suspects are being investigated, adding that they would soon be arraigned in court. He said Permanent Voters Cards, electoral materials and offensive weapons were among items recovered from those arrested. The suspects were arrested for alleged offences against the Electoral Act 2010 or other extant laws of the Nation. He added that the suspects would be arraigned before the court of law immediately investigations are concluded.
Couple Stabs 10-Year-Old Girl in Genitals
A 10-year-old girl, Chidinma, has been admitted in a hospital in Lagos after a couple, Eucheria Chukwuma and Jerry Oko-Oboh, allegedly beat her up and stabbed her in the genitals with a broken bottle on April 6. It was learnt that the couple and the victim’s family were neighbours. It was learnt that the couple assaulted the minor for allegedly fiddling with the vagina of their three-year-old daughter, Peace. The couple, who fled the neighbourhood after the act, were later trailed and arrested by the police. The police said Chukwuma, in a statement she voluntarily made at the station, confessed to the crime. She and her husband were subsequently arraigned before an Apapa Magistrate’s Court on three counts bordering on assault. The accused persons, however, pleaded not guilty to the offence. The presiding magistrate, Mr. P.A. Adekomaya, admitted them to bail in the sum of N100, 000 with a surety each in like sum. He added that they be remanded in prison custody until their bail conditions were perfected. The case was adjourned till May 13.
Trader in Court over Assault on Policeman
A 33-year-old trader, Femi Oyekunle, who allegedly beat up a police officer, was on Monday arraigned in an Apapa Magistrates’ Court in Lagos. Oyekunle, a resident of Ajegunle area of Apapa, is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and unlawful assault. The Prosecutor, Soji Ojaokomo, told the court that the accused committed the offences on April 16 at Awodi-Ora Estate, Ajegunle. Ojaokomo said Oyekunle with others still at large conspired to assault a police officer while performing his lawful duty. The accused may be sentenced to a two- year jail term if found guilty. Senior Magistrate Patrick Adekomaiya granted the accused bail in the sum of N 20,000 with one surety in like sum. Further hearing in the case was fixed for May 13.
Enugu Police Arrest Fake Army Officer
The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a fake army officer and members of his gang that had been terrorizing, intimidating and raping young girls at Amaja community in Igbo-Eze North LGA of the state. It was gathered that detectives from the Nsukka Command arrested the fake army officer, identified simply as Felix James, while he was walking freely in the community pretending to be a genuine military officer. He was not aware that detectives from the command were trailing him.
Cholera Kills 4 in Ebonyi, 16 Hospitalized
At least four persons have died of cholera in Ebonyi State, while about 16 others are currently hospitalized at Oriuzor in Ezza North LGA. The state Director of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Dr. Chris Achi, who confirmed the incident, said 16 persons who were affected by the outbreak were still receiving treatment in the hospital. Achi advised the public to maintain good hygiene to drastically reduce the spread of the disease, especially in rural communities. Achi further warned landlords to ensure that they included toilet facilities, while building their houses. He also advised them to contact the Ministry of Health whenever symptoms of the diseases were noticed in anybody.
Woman Docked for Stabbing Ex-boyfriend
A 20-year-old woman, Abiola Olayinka, who allegedly stabbed a man with a broken bottle, was on April 14, brought before an Apapa Magistrates’ Court, Lagos. Olayinka is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and unlawful assault. The Prosecutor, Friday Inedu, told the court that the accused committed the offences on March 17. Inedu said the accused conspired with others still at large and assaulted the complainant, one Olarewaju, by beating him and also stabbing him with a broken bottle on his body. According to the complainant, the accused was his ex-girlfriend. He said Olayinka and others stabbed him with broken bottles on the body, accusing him of cheating. Inedu said the offence contravened the provisions of Section 243 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. The accused, however, pleaded not guilty. The Senior Magistrate, Mr Adeyemi Amos, granted the accused bail in the sum of N50, 000 with one surety in like sum.
Review/Analysis
Murder/assassination incidents have maintained top position on the crime index with several cases of murder carried out across the country. While security agencies have claimed tight control measures to combat these nefarious activities, it is startling to see the rise death rate. The south- south and south-west regions of the country bore the brunt of these deadly crimes.
While kidnap cases also rose up the index, the authorities made major arrests of gang members and were successful in rescue operations, as witnessed mostly in the south-south region of the country.
Armed robbery gangs continue to unleash brutal attacks on unsuspecting victims. But the police remained in control with various arrests and killing of suspects after exchange of gun fire. The incidents were recorded in south-south and south-west.
Though terrorist activities in the north-eastern part of the country seem to have been hampered by the audacious raids carried out by the Nigerian military troops, the Boko Haram sect, in a bid to escape the military might, have also killed and rendered their victims homeless by looting and destroying homes and villages.
The government security agencies have continually urged residents to remain alert to their environment and identify threats, strange behaviour or movement, which should be promptly reported to the appropriate authorities for investigation.
Villeworth maintains her call for all to see safety and security as priority and everyone is involved.