Villeworth Security Services Ltd

week 29

SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY

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

Kidnap/Hostage Incidents

Kidnapped Wife of Former Bayelsa Speaker Released

The wife of the former Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Chief Nestor Binabo, who was abducted by gunmen on June 29 has been released. Mrs Martha Binabo was released on July 5. The 48-year-old woman was handed over to a negotiator at Buguma area of Rivers State in the early hours of the day, according to sources. The bandits numbering about five were said to have stormed her warehouse in broad day light and drove her to the nearby Otuokpoti waterside from which they escaped in a standby boat. The gunmen were said to have lured their victim outside her company’s gate for a talk only to force her into a waiting car and drove towards Otuokpoti sand dump, where they escaped into the creeks in a speedboat.

Police Rescue 15-Year-Old Kidnapped Victim in Bauchi

The police in Bauchi State have rescued a 15-year-old girl who was kidnapped by two middle-aged men in Bauchi metropolis. The kidnappers, identified as Suleiman Yahaya (23), and Kamalu Abdullahi (26), were said to have kidnapped the girl on July 3 and took her to an unknown destination, where she was also raped. The state Police Public Relation Officer, Haruna Mohammed, who confirmed the arrest, said the suspects had confessed to the crime. The suspects were apprehended following investigations by the police. According to the police, the suspects, in their confessional statements, also admitted that they had raped their victim. DSP Mohammed said that after rescuing the victim, she was rushed to the hospital for medical examination where laceration of her hymen and penetration was confirmed. He listed the exhibits recovered from the suspects to include a Sim card, a Sim pack and the handset used by the hoodlums in contacting the parents, and a cable wire used to tie the victim.

Delta Polytechnic Lecturer Kidnapped

A lecturer at Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro, Chike Gbemudu, was July 3, kidnapped by unknown gunmen. Gbemudu was abducted from his Ozoro residence and whisked away to an unknown destination. Police Public Relations Officer of the state police command, Celestina Kalu, confirmed the incident, saying efforts were being made to secure his release. Chairman of Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, Comrade Thomas Ojuye, described Gbemudu’s kidnap as painful.

Police Storm Kidnappers Den, Rescue Hostage

Kidnappers, July 7, abandoned their victim, a 13-year-old girl, Mordi Ogor, who was abducted on June 26. The kidnappers fled and abandoned the hostage when police operatives stormed their den at Ubuluku. Ogor, who abducted with her mother, Felicia Mordi, at Ogwashi-Uku, was rescued unhurt by the police. Her mother was rescued on July 2. The kidnappers, who fled in a scurry, left Ogor still blindfolded. Police spokesperson in the state, Celestina Kalu, confirmed the rescue. According to her police operatives moved to the area and the hoodlums on noticing the presence of the policemen fled and abandoned the blindfolded victim.

Gunmen Abduct One in Patani

Gunmen, July 6, hit Patani in Delta State and abducted a woman at a building site. The woman, identified as Benaibi Keboh, was abducted at the building site along Agoloma Road by an unspecified number of gunmen who fled with their victim through a creek in the community. Denouncing the abduction and calling for the release of the victim, a resident of the community, Doutimi Fiepre, and a former chairman of Patani LGA, Dr. Chris Ekiyor, while lamenting the activities of the gunmen, called for the immediate release of Keboh.

Boy, 8, Kidnapped in Calabar

An eight-year-old boy, Eyo Antigha, was, July 6, kidnapped by gunmen in Calabar, Cross River State. The boy is the son of the proprietor of a private nursery school in Anantigha, Calabar South, Faithas Nursery/Primary School. An eye witness disclosed that a strange person, who had roamed the area for a while, accosted the child just outside the school premises.  The witness said as soon as the child was grabbed, an armed gang showed up in a speed boat and took them away at gun point. The Police Public Relations Officer, Hogan Bassey, confirmed the incident, saying action was on to rescue the boy.

Police Kill 3 Kidnappers in Rivers

The Rivers State Police Command, July 8, said it had killed three suspected kidnappers and arrested one suspected armed robber in two different locations in Port Harcourt, the state capital. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ahmad Muhammad, said the three suspected kidnappers were killed in a gun duel with policemen after they kidnapped one Richard Otu along the East-West Road. Muhammad further said a suspected armed robber was arrested around the Railway axis of the Old Aba Road, when policemen from the Mini-Okoro Police Division engaged a gang of armed robbers in a gun battle. The victim and his vehicle were safely rescued. Items recovered from the suspects include one AK 47 rifle, one magazine, five 7.62mm live ammunition, one locally made pistol and one dane gun.”

Kidnappers Demand N100m as Ransom for Abducted Civil Servant

Some suspected kidnappers, July 2, abducted a civil servant, Ebenezer Oluwadamilare, from his Ogun State residence. The victim was trailed by unidentified and kidnapped gunmen, who attacked him at the entrance of his residence. They were said to have driven him away in his car before contacting the family some days later. The kidnappers demanded N100m and had refused to reduce the ransom. It was learnt that the car was later found in a bush around Igbo Olomu, a neighbouring community. It was learnt that the matter had been reported at the Ogijo Police Station and the family had not got any feedback from the police. The Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, denied that the police were informed of the case.

Police Arrest 60-Year-Old for Kidnapping 6 Teenagers

The Police Command in Bauchi, July 9, said it had arrested a 60-year-old man for criminal conspiracy and kidnapping. The suspect, Alhaji Isa Ya’u, was arrested alongside Mamman Madi (25), was said to have kidnapped 6 teenagers in Pali village in Alkaleri LGA of Bauchi State on June 29. The Police Public Relations Officer, Haruna Mohammed, who disclosed this, said the suspects, alongside 4 others who are still at large, had demanded six million naira as ransom before releasing the victims. Discreet investigation led to the arrest of two suspects. According to him, the police has so far rescued one victim, while efforts are on to liberate others and get the fleeing suspects arrested.

Octogenarian Kidnapped in Ekiti State

An 80-year-old, Rose Aina, was on July 7, kidnapped at Ilogbo-Ekiti in Ido/Osi LGA of Ekiti State. She was sleeping in her room at about 9p.m. when she was abducted and efforts made to secure her release had proved abortive. Vanguard gathered that the kidnappers were yet to make contact with her family. Ekiti State Police Command spokesman, Alberto Adeyemi, said efforts were on by the officers and men of the command to secure the release of the octogenarian.

Robbery

Police Arrest Four Suspects in Ikorodu Bank Robbery

Four suspected members of the gang led by a lady that robbed banks at Ikorodu, Lagos, a fortnight ago have been arrested by police in Lagos. The robbers operated for close to two hours, carted away about N80 million from the two banks. Three of the suspects were arrested around Ikorodu, while the fourth was arrested in Ondo State. Police sources revealed that the suspects at Ikorodu were arrested by operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), July 3, following a confessional statement by one of them. It was gathered that the first suspect was arrested by some soldiers in Ogun State, with some bundles of naira notes in N1,000 denomination, which had the seal of the affected banks. Thereafter, the soldiers were said to have contacted the Lagos State Police Command, consequent upon which the outgoing Commissioner of Police, Kayode Aderanti, directed SARS operatives to carry out further investigation.

Robbers Attack Governor’s Aide, Others, Snatch Vehicles

Malam Bello Zaki, the Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to Governor Muhammad Badaru of Jigawa State, was on July 4, attacked by armed robbers that snatched his official vehicle along the Kano-Kazaure Expressway. The robbers, who were clad in police camouflage, also attacked other motorists, searched and carted away their personal belongings. They zoomed off towards the Kano end of the expressway. One of the stolen vehicles was abandoned after it got involved in an accident at Dambatta. It was learnt that some villagers, who witnessed the accident, initially rushed to the scene for a rescue mission. They were, however, taken aback, when the two of the robbers disembarked from the damaged vehicle, jumped into a waiting car and fled the area.

Robbers Stab Security Man to Death

A security man, identified as Wasiu Okanlawon, has been stabbed to death by armed robbers in the Ile Zik, Ikeja area of Lagos. It was learnt that Wasiu, who was attacked on July 3, was killed while he and a female colleague were returning home from work. It was gathered that Okanlawon and the colleague, whose name had yet to be ascertained, were going in a commercial bus, when the bus had a flat tyre. The bus passengers were said to have alighted, while the driver tried to change the tyre. The robbers reportedly came out of hiding and attacked the stranded passengers. A colleague of the deceased said Okanlawon was stabbed to death when he prevailed on the robbers not to sexually harass his female colleague. It was gathered that Okanlawon was rushed to a nearby hospital, but he died on the way. It was gathered that the matter was reported to the police.

Civil Defence Arrests Crude Oil Thieves in Delta

Menof the Nigerian Civil Defence and Security Corps (NCDSC) in Delta State, July 4 arrested seven suspected oil pipeline vandals while smuggling 66,000 litres of illegal crude oil to neighbouring Anambra State. The suspects, who   were arrested along Kwale-Nssukwa road by the   Anti-Vandal Squad of the Corps, are Muhammadu Abdulkareem, Ifeanyi Agbo, Augustine Asemota, Endurance Mordi, Ajulo Sunday, Ifeanyi Illoh and Chiemer Ikechukwu. The State Commander of the NCDSC, Beatrice Irabor, who paraded the suspects in Asaba, the state capital, disclosed that the suspects were apprehended while transporting the product in trucks.

Gang Incidents

2 Feared Dead In Rivers Cult Clash

Two persons were feared dead as a result of a clash between two rival cult groups in Ubima, Ikwerre LGA of Rivers State. It was gathered that the residents of the community are fleeing to avoid being caught in the crossfire between the two warring cult groups. Chairman of the Ikwerre local government council, Hon. Bestman Amadi, who confirmed the incident on July 8, said security operatives have been drafted to the community to restore peace and order. Amadi disclosed that a second detachment of security operatives were being drafted to Ubima community to quell the situation. The first detachment of armed security personnel was drafted on July 7.

Cultists Hack 24-Year-Old to Death, Loot Shops, Houses in Lagos

Suspected cultists, July 5, hacked a 24-year-old man, Fatai Suleiman, to death and looted shops and residences at Iya Agan Street in the Oyingbo area of Lagos. The gang, who were said to be over 20 persons, invaded the area, shooting sporadically. It was learnt that the cult groups, which invaded the area, were Omo Kogbagidi and Otto boys, who reportedly came on a reprisal to attack Olokodana Fagbayimu boys. They were said to have used the supremacy battle as an opportunity to loot houses, shops and robbed residents. The cultists allegedly attacked Suleiman with machetes and hacked him to death. Another resident was shot in the eyes during the operation. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed the incident.

Police Nab 2 Vigilante Members over Cultism in Delta State

At least two members of a vigilante team at Oleh in Isoko South LGA of Delta State were on July 4, arrested by the police for their alleged involvement in cult activities. This came as unspecified number of youths in the area renounced membership of their cult groups. The vigilante members, sources said, were among scores of members of various cult groups apprehended by the police in the clampdown on cultists in the area. It would be recalled that cultists went on rampage in the town last week, unleashing mayhem on residents of the area, following a violent clash between members of rival cult groups. Police Public Relations Officer of the state police command, Celestina Kalu, confirmed the arrest.

Police Arraign 115 Street Gang Members in Kaduna

The Kaduna State Police Command, July 6, said it had arraigned 115 street gang members, locally known as “Yan Sara-Suka” for allegedly terrorising communities in the state. Police spokesman, Zubairu Abubakar, disclosed that the arraignment followed massive raid of the gangs’ hideouts across the state. Governor Nasiru El-Rufa’i recently directed the police to rid the state of the terror gangs that had killed and maimed several people in the state. Abubakar said 38 of those arraigned before various courts in the state were facing charges of criminal conspiracy and terrorism, 32 for possession of hard drugs and 45 for terrorism and culpable homicide. He said the arrest of the suspects was facilitated by the cooperation of communities, especially in areas such as Rigasa.

Suspected Cultists Attack Benue Community, Raze Houses

Suspected cultists, numbering over 50, July 8, attacked Gaadi village on the outskirt of Makurdi town razing several houses. This is just as suspected Fulani herdsmen also besieged Adeke in Makurdi town, shooting sporadically for over two hours while residents scampered for safety. It was learned that the invaders stormed the village at night, matching through some streets in the community. The development forced many residents and parents to flee with their families, scampering through bush paths to safer areas in the town. Calm has, however, returned to the community after three police patrol vehicles moved into the area around 12 midnight. The State Police Commissioner, Hyacinth Dagala, stated that the squabble between the Tiv locals and some Fulani herders in the community could have led to many casualties, but for the timely intervention of security operatives.

Drugs

Drug Trafficker Dies after Ingesting 55 Wraps of Cocaine

A 32-year-old suspected drug trafficker has died of cocaine ingestion at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The dead suspect, identified as Ndulue Emmanuel Obiefuna, who was an intending passenger on an Ethiopian Airlines flight to China, en route Addis Ababa, on July 5, collapsed at the departure hall after ingesting about 55 wraps of cocaine, weighing 1.20 kilogrammes and was taken to a nearby hospital. NDLEA Commandant at Abuja airport, Mr. Hamisu Lawan, said the suspect confessed to cocaine ingestion on his hospital bed. This came as operatives of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, yesterday arrested a 46 years old passenger with $2,198,900 (N437.3 million) at the domestic wing of Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.

Court Jails Man 15 Years for Drug Trafficking

Justice Mohammed Idris of the Federal High Court in Lagos sentenced a businessman, Aloysius Egbutiegbo, to 15 years imprisonment for trying to export 19.80kg of hard drugs to China. The judge, July 8, handed down the verdict after Egbutiegbo pleaded guilty to a one-count charge of unauthorized and unlawful dealing in hard drugs. The convict was arrested by the men of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the departure hall of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on June 12, 2014, with 19.80kg of Cannabis Sativa, popularly called marijuana. Consequently, Justice Idris, pronounced him guilty as charged. While pleading for mercy for the convict, the convict’s lawyer, Sunday Obunor, told the court that his client was a first offender.

Maritime

Terrorism

Boko Haram: Over 600 Terrorists Killed in One Month

The military, June 4, disclosed that over 600 terrorists might have been killed in the last one month following renewed onslaught by the troops operating in the north-eastern part of the country. This is coming against the backdrop of the resurgence of Boko Haram terrorists, who have mercilessly slaughtered over 500 helpless citizens in the last two months. According to reports the terrorists have engaged in guerrilla tactics of using vulnerable girls and young men for suicide attacks on soft targets, while the military have ensured that their fighters do not escape as they continue to meet their waterloos in the hands of the troops. The terrorists have recently change tactics and are now targeting remote villages where their EX-members were taking refuge.

Troops Repel Boko Haram’s Daring Attack on Borno Towns

Nigerian military, with the help of youth vigilantes, July 3, repelled an onslaught by the Islamist terror group Boko Haram on two Borno towns, Jere and Bama. According to sources, the insurgents were believed to be gradually advancing towards Maiduguri. A security source further disclosed that the terrorists were advancing from Koshebe village in Mafa town before being engaged by the military personnel, who repelled their attempt. The Borno State commissioner of Police, Aderemi Opadokun, confirmed the recent Boko Haram onslaughts on Borno towns. Opadokun confirmed that the attacks also involved six female suicide bombers. The commissioner said there was an attack by the terrorists on Zabamari village, near Dusuman village in Jere LGA. He added that 21 persons were injured in the incident.

Death Toll from Boko Haram Attack in Born Village Hits 118

The death toll from a Boko Haram attack in the northeastern Nigerian village of Kukawa — one of many staged by the Islamist group in the past week — has risen to 118, a lawmaker said on July 5. Five more swollen corpses were just discovered, making the total death toll 118. At least 97 people were initially said to have been killed on July 1 when Boko Haram militants attacked homes and mosques in the village, near Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state. Initial recovery efforts were hampered by landmines left by Boko Haram. The insurgents launched the multiple attacks on July, with people attending evening prayers during the holy month of Ramadan gunned down, women shot at home, and men dragged from their homes in the dead of night.

Suicide Bomber Kills Pastor, 5 others in Yobe

A suicide bomber, July 5, blew himself up inside a church in Potiskum, Yobe State killing a pastor and five worshippers. The female bomber entered the Redeemed Christian Church of God, (RCCG), at located on the outskirts of the city and detonated his explosives. The insurgents have launched a series of attacks on mosques, villages and markets in neighbouring Borno State in the past few days, claiming more than 200 lives. The Police in Yobe confirmed the killing of six persons in a suicide bomb attack on a church in Potiskum. Toyin Gbadegesin, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) said that the death included the suicide bomber.

44 Killed as Twin Blasts Rock Jos

About 44 persons were reportedly killed on July 5 after a twin explosion rocked Jos, the Plateau State capital. An eyewitness disclosed that the first explosion went off at a shopping complex close to the University of Jos and the second explosion was heard about four minutes later. The second explosion was said to have occurred close to the popular Yan Taya mosque where Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir says his Ramadan tafsir. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), which confirmed the casualties in Jos, added that 47 others were critically injured and were receiving treatment at the Plateau State Specialist Hospital, Our Lady of Apostle Hospital, Bingham University Teaching Hospital (BhUTH) and Sunnah Hospital, Angwan Rimi, all in Jos. The North-central Zonal Coordinator of NEMA, Mohammed Abdulsalami, confirmed the death toll.

25 Killed in Zaria Explosion

At least 25 people were, July 7, killed in an explosion in Zaria, Kaduna state. Thirty Two others sustained various degrees of injuries. The bomb was said to have exploded at the secretariat of Sabon Gari LGA as hundreds of people gathered for the ongoing workers verification exercise in the state. Eye witness said the bomb exploded in the middle of the crowd that had gathered at the council secretariat for the exercise. The Kaduna state government condemned the incident describing it as wicked and evil. The statement which was signed by the Special Assistant to Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Samuel Aruwan confirmed that 25 people were killed by the blast while 32 others were wounded. The governor called on citizens of the state to be very vigilant and report suspicious characters to community leaders and security agents.

Female Suicide Bomber Attacks Kano Mosque

A female suicide bomber, July 6, blew herself into pieces outside a popular Kano Mosque, Umar Ibn Khattab, on Zoo Road in the Kano metropolis a few minutes after rounding off the night prayers. An eyewitness, Sulaiman Ibrahim, said the teenage bomber attempted to enter the mosque when the explosives went off, in the process killing herself and injuring some members of the vigilante group guarding the mosque. Police spokesman in Kano, Musa Magaji Majia, confirmed the explosion, saying that it was only the female suicide bomber who was killed in the attempted attack on the mosque. Majia said the area was condoned off by a combined team of security operatives, adding that calm was restored shortly afterwards.

Troops Recover Bomb Laden Vehicle

Following separate deadly attacks by the murderous Boko Haram terrorist group in Borno State that has left no fewer than 200 persons killed in the last 10 days, the Nigerian military said that it recovered a four-wheel vehicle loaded with bombs meant for further attacks. According to reports, a jeep full of Improvised Explosives Devises (IEDs), was among the weapons recovered by troops conducting Cordon and Search Operations after suicide bombing attacks on Zabamari   Muna, near Maiduguri. Major General Chris Olukolade, Director of Defence Information, July 4, added the jeep along with 2 Hilux vehicles being used by terrorists were destroyed in the course of pursuit and encounter with a group of terrorists trying to escape after simultaneous attacks on targets in the communities.

Mastermind of Jos, Zaria Bombings Nabbed

The Nigerian military has arrested the suspected mastermind of the recent bombings in Jos and Zaria. The Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, July 8, confirmed the arrest, saying the terror kingpin was captured in Gombe State. Suspected Boko Haram terrorists had on July 5, carried out coordinated bomb and gun attacks on worshippers in Jos, leading to the death of over 48 persons. The terrorists, July 6, carried out another bomb attack on workers undergoing a verification exercise in Zaria, Kaduna State, resulting in the death of 25 people including a two-year-old child. Consequently, he revealed that a security cordon was established in the general areas especially along Bauchi, Gombe and the North-eastern part of the country by troops of 3 Division and the Special Task Force, as well as the Department of State Service (DSS), which culminated in the successful arrest of the mastermind and two of his accomplices. He urged members of the public to be vigilant, security conscious and report any suspicious persons, movements, and facilities to the security agencies.

Suicide Bombers Kill 5, Injure 5 in Borno Market

Borno State police command, July 8, confirmed that two suspected Boko Haram suicide bombers attacked the Sabon Gari village market in Damboa LGA, killing five persons, including the suspects. The suspects, according to the police, detonated the Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) strapped to their backs in the market square on July 7. State Police commissioner, Aderemi Opadokun, who disclosed this in Maiduguri, said three traders died in the Sabon Gari twin blasts, while those injured had been moved to hospitals for treatment.

Children Paid to Drop Bomb at Yola Barracks

Two children and a scavenger have been arrested in Yola, Adamawa State, following a bomb explosion close to the headquarters of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on July 9. The children told the police that an unknown man gave them N2, 500 to carry drop the bomb close to the military barracks. It was gathered that the man instructed them to drop the explosive at a specific place in Bachure suburb, near the Army Barracks mainly inhabited by retired military personnel. The two arrested boys, aged 9 and 15, said the bag containing the explosive was too heavy for them to carry, so they had to sell it to a scavenger at the nearby mechanic workshop. The scavenger, said to have been arrested, has been helping the police in their investigation.

Political/Government Agencies

Police Warn Officers against Bribery, Corruption

Ogun State Police command has warned its officers against bribery and any other corrupt practices, saying, that a website created by the Inspector General of Police was meant for complaints against any erring police officer. The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Muyiwa Adejobi, July 8, stated this during the promotional training of 953 officers who are undergoing training that will usher them from the rank of corporal to the rank of a sergeant. The training took place at the Police College in Iperu area of Ogun State. Adejobi said the Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase has zero tolerance for bribery and corruption within the police force across the country adding that he has created a website where police shortcomings   can be reported. Adejobi advised the officers to be good ambassadors of the police force.

IGP Redeploys 27 ACPs Nationwide

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, July 1, redeployed 27 Assistant Commissioners of Police across the country. Four ACPs were transferred out of Lagos, while four new ones were moved into the state. Mr. Emmanuel Ngwu, formerly in charge of operations in the command, was transferred to the Force Headquarters, Abuja, while Julius Okoro was sent to replace him. A former Area Commander in charge of Area E Police Command, FESTAC, Lagos, Mr. Dan Okoro, was moved to Akure, Ondo State, while Mba became the new Area Commander. The former Area F Commander, Tunde Adagunduro, was transferred to Owerri, Imo State, while Edward Ajogu replaced him. Patrick Longe, formerly of Area H Command, was transferred to Awka in Anambra State. Aliyu Haruna was sent in as replacement. Hakeem Odumosu, the former Commander, Rapid Response Squad, was deployed to the Port Authority Police Command.

IGP Orders Cancellation of Discriminatory Police Regulations against women

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, July 9, ordered the cancellation of all Police regulations that are discriminatory to women police officers just as he promised to fight all forms of gender-based violence in the country. The IGP spoke at a consultative meeting on improving Police response to sexual and gender-based violence and gender mainstreaming in Abuja. He said it is morally reprehensible to disallow new female police intakes from marrying until they had spent some years in the force, while the men could marry while in the training school. He described the rule that a female police officer has to stay for some years before marriage as very repugnant. On gender-based offences, he said the questions that policemen often ask victims are most of the time offensive.

Murder/Assassinations

Business Man Shot Dead in Kebbi

A prominent businessman and politician in Aliero LGA of Kebbi State, Alhaji Ibrahim Lemi, was, July 3, shot dead by unidentified gunmen. The security guard at the residence of the deceased, Habibu Shehu, disclosed that six masked men had overpowered before gaining access into the house at about 8:30 pm. He said that the hoodlums who came in batches, rode on motorcycles. He stated that after over-powering him, they killed their victim and fled. Spokesman of the state police command, Nafiu Abubakar, confirmed the incident, but said no arrest had been made. He added that the command had commenced thorough investigations and had intensified efforts at trailing the killers.

Pastor Arrested as Man Dies during Deliverance in Church

The Police in Edo state have arrested the pastor of a Pentecostal church in Uselu Quarters, in Egor LGA of Edo State after a 45-year-old man, Osayande Ekhator, died during a deliverance session in the church. It was gathered that the man had been taken to the church, Hope Ministry, also known as Holy Ghost Deliverance Centre, by his relatives for spiritual cleansing on July 6, due to an undisclosed ailment. The death of the man was said to have attracted a loud crowd of curious residents and mourners. Some angry youths were said to have stormed the church and vandalised property. The Resident Pastor of the church, Mrs. Isoken Ekundaye, denied beating the sick man to death. Police Public Relations Officer, Stephen Onwochei, said the pastor had been arrested.

Ex-Council Boss Charged with Murder

A former Transition Chairman of Oshimili North LGA of Delta State, Innocent Esewezie, was on July 8 docked at an Ibusa, Delta State Magistrate Court. Esewezie is accused of having a hand in the abduction and death of one Emeka Onianwa from wounds allegedly inflicted on him during the last April 11 Governorship/House of Assembly elections. The former Chairman, who is currently being detained at Ogwashi Uku Prisons, is also accused of unlawfully killing Onianwa by hitting him with several objects including knives, cutlasses and walking sticks at Umueze Camp and in the house of socialite, Chief Fred Ajudua, which caused his death on April 16. Meanwhile, a Delta State High Court, July 8, granted Mrs. Pat Ajudua, a member of the Delta State House of Assembly an injunction restraining the police from arresting her; her husband, Chief Fred Ajudua and 11 others who are at present being charged for the murder of Onianwa.

Iyaloja of Ijebuland, Assassinated in Ogun State

Unknown assailants reportedly hacked the Iyaloja-General of Ijebuland, Alhaja Sadiat Elewuju to death on July 9. The deceased, 82, was reportedly attacked by six unidentified men at her residence in Sabo-Molode area of Ijebu-Ode in Ijebu-Ode LGA. Attempt by some members of her family to rescue her proved abortive as she reportedly died in hospital. The Ogun State Command Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that suspected assailants inflicted several machete cuts on the Octogenarian and did not take anything from her.

Gynaecologist Commits Suicide in Benin

The 49 year-old Chief Consultant Gynaecologist and Managing Director of Hope Medical Centre Benin City, Dr John Abode, who was found dead in his wardrobe on July 7, is feared to have committed suicide. It was learned that the deceased, who was said to have attempted suicide on several occasions, but was stopped by his wife widow, injected himself with a yet-to-be disclosed substance before heading to his wardrobe where he hanged himself with his belt. His widow had earlier informed the deceased’s family about the attempted suicide in the past by their son. Though the deceased’s family is suspecting foul play, autopsy results so far indicated that the deceased died as a result of cessation, mostly caused by suicide.

Hoodlums Invade Market, Kill 5

Some hoodlums, suspected to be cultists, July 6, invaded the Allison market in the Ikorodu Garage area of Lagos, killing three persons. The hoodlums went to neighbouring Etunrenren and Ladeja streets, where they clashed with rival cult groups, and killed two more persons. It was learnt that the hoodlums, said to be members of the Eiye and Aiye cult groups, came to a beer parlour, Royal Hall, and shot at three persons, while they were drinking in the bar. It was learnt that two of them died instantly, while the third person, who fled the bar, was ambushed in a public primary school by the market, and shot dead. The leader of the vigilance group, Kamorudeen Bombata, said four persons among the suspects arrested had confessed to the crime. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Nwosu, said the police picked three corpses in the area.

Student Stabbed to Death in Kaduna School Hostel

A 19-year-old student of Government Technical College, Malali, Kaduna state, Mohammed Sani, was, July 9, found dead on his bed in the school hostel with machete cuts on his body. The father of the deceased, Alhaji Harisu Sani, was baffled that there were about 200 students in the hostel and none of them saw the killer or killers and did not raise any alarm. He demanded explanation from the school authority and the state government on the death of his son who was a boarding student and in their custody. Mallam Sani vowed to use all available legal means to ensure that justice is done on behalf of his son.

Rape

Police Warning: Rapists Pick Victims from Illegal Motor Parks

The Ogun State Police Command has warned the residents of the state against patronising unapproved motor parks in the state. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, July 5, said some suspected serial rapists and armed robbers arrested by men of the command had confessed that they picked many of their victims from illegal motor parks. According to him, the command gave the warning following intelligence and concluded investigation reports of some cases of rape, armed robbery and missing persons reported to the police in the state. Adejobi said the command had established a “strong link between the crimes and the patronage of unapproved parks. The command urged commuters to always patronise government approved motor parks.

33-Year-Old Arrested for Raping Lunatic

Policemen attached to Makinde Division in Lagos State have arrested a 33-year-old man, Itodo Stephen, who allegedly raped a mentally-deranged woman at Oshodi area of the state. The victim was said to have been kept in an isolated room in her parents’ apartment, from where she was being treated. The suspect was said to have, on June 26, sneaked into the apartment and raped the lady, when her parents had gone to work. A neighbour, who suspected Stephen’s moves, raised the alarm when she caught him in the act. Stephen reportedly denied raping her, claiming that the lady gave consent without hesitation. Stephen had been charged before Oshodi Magistrate’s court, where he pleaded not guilty to the offence. He was reportedly granted N50,000 bail by Magistrate Akeem Fashola with one surety in like sum and remanded in Kirikiri Prison custody.

Man Jailed Over Rape, Murder of Teenage Girl

A 26-year-old man, Toba Afolasade, was, July 3, remanded in prison by an Akure Chief Magistrate Court for allegedly killing one Adejoke Olalekan, a 16-year-old girl. The accused person, who was brought before Magistrate Victoria Bob-Manuel, is facing a two-count charge of killing and having unlawful carnal knowledge of the victim. The police prosecutor, Isah Atanegbe, told the court that the accused person committed the offence on June 26, 2015. According to prosecution, the accused person killed Adejoke Olalekan by strangulating her to death while raping her. The plea of the accused person was not taken as no counsel stood for him. The prosecutor prayed the court for adjournment of the case to enable him send the duplicated case file to the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) for legal advice.

Woman Arrested, Husband Wanted for Assault and Rape of 13-year-Old

A man, Francis Onyeji and his wife, Chibuzor, have been arrested over the assault and severe injuries inflicted on her 13-year-old niece living with them in Ekpan, Delta State. It was learnt that the woman, Chibuzor Onyeji, was arrested by the police for allegedly causing severe body harm to the girl with a hot knife. The woman allegedly carried out the act after she discovered that her husband had been abusing the girl sexually for two years and giving her some money to buy herself a few things including food as her aunt often denied her meals. Meanwhile, the Delta police command have begun a manhunt for the husband, Francis Onyeji, who has since gone into hiding. The suspect, who was arraigned in court on July 7, was however granted bail on compassionate ground with the sum of N500,000.00 (Five Hundred thousand naira) with surety in like sum, which include a landed property within the Magisterial District and which must be confirmed by court officials and that the accused must be present in court at every sitting.

Police Arrest 3 over Gang Rape of 16-Year-Old Girl

Three men have been arrested and detained at the State criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, for allegedly gang-raping a 16-year-old girl in Lagos on June 23. It was gathered that while the victim was struggling with one of the suspects Adebayo Omoniyi, who took her phone, his cohorts dragged her into a tricycle and took her to No. 15 Unity Close, Orile Iganmu, where they took turns raping her, after which they collected her phone number and threatened to kill her if she reported the incident. But the girl reported the incident to her parents, who quickly reported to the police. But while at the station with her father, the suspects kept calling and further threatening her. The police then advised her to lure the suspects by telling them that she was coming to see them again after school, which she did. At the agreed time, it was learned that she went there with the detectives who succeeded in arresting one of the suspect, identified as Nnaemeka Uzodinma. His arrest eventually led to the arrest of two others.

Others

Buhari Vows Probe of Political Violence in Nigeria

President Muhammadu Buhari, July 4, assured Nigerians that his administration would ensure that all cases of political assassinations, intimidation and kidnappings in the country are thoroughly investigated and the perpetrators speedily brought to justice, irrespective of their political affiliations. Buhari declared that he remained fully committed to providing a level playing field for all Nigerians to get on with their daily lives or participate in electing their leaders, without fear of intimidation. Nigeria has witnessed some high-profile political killings and assassinations in the past, most of which have remained unsolved till date.

Plateau Villagers Flee Homes over Invasion by Soldiers

Thousands of villagers have fled their homes in Maraban-Foron of Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau State following the invasion of soldiers alleged to be members of the Special Task Force (STF) deployed to keep peace in the community. A source from the community alleged that some soldiers suspected to be members of the STF invaded the community and started breaking into houses, beating up members of the community and terrorising the people with gun shots. A resident of the community, Solomon Goje said he wondered why the soldiers would search only the Berom community and leave out that of the Fulani, adding that the soldiers were biased.

Cholera Outbreak Claims 7 in Ebonyi

Seven persons were on July 5 confirmed dead in three communities in Ezza North LGA of Ebonyi State. The House of Representatives member, representing Ezza North/Ishielu, Anayo Nwonu, expressed dissatisfaction with the outbreak. According to him, the intervention carried out by his office is meant to mitigate the impact of the outbreak on the people. He advised the people of the area to desist from living in dirty environment and adhere strictly to sanitation laws and regulations. Reacting to the development, one of the medical doctors mobilized to tackle the outbreak, Dr. John Nweze, of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, FETHA, listed Eka, Umuzekoha, Umuezoka and Oriuzor as communities affected by the outbreak.

Police Fortify Security at Worship Centres

The Inspector-General of Police (IG) Solomon Arase, has mandated state Command Commissioners of Police to strengthen security at all mosques, churches and other worship centres across the country. Arase also ordered adequate security should be put in place at venues where Muslims break-fast in the evenings. He advised worshipers to be vigilant, and promptly report to the police any suspicious persons or substance found in or around their environment. In a statement signed by the Deputy Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abayomi Shogunle, equally said a ban had been placed on street hawking and all forms of trading on Abuja roads/highways especially road intersections, traffic light points and traffic hold-ups. He added that unauthorised taxi parks and bus stops around the Federal Secretariat, Abuja is now prohibited.

11 States at Risk of Flooding – NHSA

About 11 states in Nigeria are at risk of flooding, according to the Nigerian Hydrological Agency (NHSA). The Agency, which unveiled its 2015 Annual Flood Outlook has therefore advised the concerned states to come up with effective mitigation strategies, capable of preventing flooding within their territories. The Agency listed the high flood risk areas to include Sokoto-Rima, Niger, Benue Basins and parts of Anambra Basin. NHSA disclosed that coastal flooding resulting from sea level rise and tidal surges are likely to occur in Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta and Lagos states. Similarly, flash floods, according to the Agency, might be experienced in Lagos, Port-Harcourt, Sokoto, Birnin Kebbi, Ibadan and towns along the coastline. According to NHSA, flood events within these basins are influenced largely by factors operating outside Nigeria. Some of the runoff generated as far as the foothills of the Futa Djallon Mountain in the Republic of Guinea, may end up in the Niger Delta area of Nigeria.

Okada Riders Protest Death of Colleague, Attack VIO Office

Commercial Motorcycle operators in Ibadan, Oyo State, July 7, invaded the premises of Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) after some VIO caused the death of a motorcyclist who fell under an articulated vehicle. The VIO, whose manner of operations had been severally condemned by motorists in the state, were said to be in hot pursuit of a commercial cab for breach of traffic rules. The taxi driver was said to have, in his escape bid, hit the motorcyclist whose brains littered the road. This angered motorcyclists, who mobilised and stormed the office of the VIO, destroying it in the process. It was learned that the quick intervention of security men saved the situation from degenerating into a full blown crisis.

Police Impostor Nabbed in Lagos

The police in Lagos have arrested 33-year-old Godwin Akhenamen, who allegedly claimed to be a policeman for about 12 years. It was learnt that Akhenamen was arrested on June 30, by policemen attached to the X-squad Department around the Ikeja area. A police source said the suspect wore a uniform meant for spy policemen, while the force number on his uniform was “unusual”. It was gathered that some policemen near the area confronted Akhenamen and when he failed to produce his identity card, he was arrested. It was learnt that Akhenamen confessed to the crime. Police spokesman, Kenneth Nwosu, said the suspect would be charged to court.

Policemen Arrested over Shooting of Vendor

Seven policemen attached to the Anthony Police Division are being quizzed for their roles in a fracas involving fuel vendors at the Ishaga junction, in Surulere, Lagos State. The policemen were alleged to be in the habit of collecting money and free fuel from the vendors as part of arrangements to give the black marketers freedom to operate. However, there was a disagreement between the two groups on July 2 led to a fight during which the policemen were said to have chased some of the vendors, shooting sporadically. One of the fuel vendors, Kamarudeen Olalude, was said to have been shot in the waist. The victim was said to have been rushed to the Lagos Island General Hospital for treatment. The Police Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed that seven policemen had been detained over the matter.

Enugu Police Arrest Masquerade Stabbing Priest

Men of Enugu Police Command have arrested three persons in Enugu, who allegedly stabbed an Anglican priest after beating him, under the cover of playing masquerade. The reason for the attack was yet to be ascertained but the state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Ebere Amaraizu, who confirmed the incident said the three persons and the masquerade regalia are currently in police custody for interrogation. According to the PPRO, “operatives of Igboeze North Division of Enugu State Command of the Nigeria Police have nabbed three suspects (names withheld), all of Igogoro, Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State for allegedly conspiring to beat and stab one Reverend Christian Ajibo, an Anglican priest, on July 2.

Review/Analysis

Kidnap/hostage cases remained high cutting across the country. The victims remain random, and it is believed that most of them were kidnapped for the purpose of ransom. It is noteworthy that most of the victims were taken from the security of their homes of workplace, by kidnappers who either trailed them or invaded their homes. The authorities were able to make some arrests as they raided kidnappers den, killed some suspects. Some hostages were successfully rescued.

Robbery incidents also took a downward turn with few cases of robbery on record. Security agencies remain on top of their game with the arrest of notorious suspects.

Gang and cult related cases maintained its place on the crime index with few incidents on record. It was also a major breakthrough as the Delta State Police command dislodged some gang members. Gang activities remain sporadic and cut across various parts and strata of the society, with some innocent persons falling victims as they were caught in the middle of some fracas.

Terrorism took a leap as the Boko Haram group step up bomb attacks to undermine the efforts of government security forces. The sect, which, had before now, restricted its attacks to the northeast, in recent days, have spread to the north-western and north=central states of Kanduna and Plateau. The military remains resolute in their battle to completely flush out terrorism in the country, and have also repelled several attacks, killed terrorists, and made arrests.

Murder/assassination maintained its position with a number of incidents on record across the country. The authorities, however, apprehended some suspects.

Rape incidents also went up, with cases of gang rape on record. This has prompted the police to warn females, especially to be extra-vigilant, and board commercial vehicles only from approved parks, as it is observed that rapist pick their victims from roadside and other porous areas.

The government charges every Nigerian and persons that are resident in Nigeria to be security conscious. Villeworth also urges you to remain law abiding and report any perceived threat to the appropriate authorities for investigation.