Weekly Security Report Weekly Report week 34 week 34
SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY
S/N | CATEGORY | MAJOR INCIDENTS |
| 1 | Kidnap/Hostage | 10 |
| 2 | Robbery | 7 |
| 3 | Gang | 4 |
| 4 | Drugs | 4 |
| 5 | Maritime Incidents |
|
| 6 | Terrorism | 7 |
| 7 | Political/Government Agencies | 2 |
| 8 | Murder/Assassinations | 13 |
| 9 | Rape Incidents | 5 |
| 10 | Others | 5 |
|
| Review/Analysis | |
Kidnap/Hostage Incidents
Man Arrested over Abduction of Octogenarian
Detectives in Ondo State Police Command have arrested a 30-year-old man, Sunday Omojugba, who abducted an 82-year-old woman. The suspect was picked up after he collected a ransom of N3 million from the family of his victim, identified as Madam Olamodesi Theresa Akindeju. Madam Akindeju was abducted in her residence at Igbotako, Okitipupa area of the state. The suspect was arrested by detectives from the Special Anti-Cultism Squad, SACS, in his hideout at 5, Ego Eduwo quarters, Ilu-Titun area of the state. Police, August 7, said he had confessed to being a cultist and was involved in other violent crimes in and outside the state. Other members of the gang, it was gathered, had earlier been arrested and remanded in prison custody at Olokuta, Akure. Police spokesman, Wole Ogodo, said the suspect would soon be arraigned in court.
Mother of 7 Steals Day-Old Baby
Detectives attached to Ewekoro Division of Ogun State Police command, have arrested one Adebola Titilayo, a nurse and owner of a private health facility at Arogun village, Ewekoro LGA of Ogun State, for allegedly stealing a-day-old baby boy after taking his delivery. The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Muyiwa Adejobi, August 8, disclosed that the nurse had lied and deceived the mother that she had a stillbirth. However, nemesis caught up with her when the mother got reliable information that her new baby boy had been sold out and she immediately informed the police. Residents in the community noticed that the nurse, who was not pregnant, suddenly started nursing a baby. They informed the mother who later reported the case to the police at Ewekoro on August 7. The police operatives have recovered and the suspect was arrested.
Police Foil Kidnap of Indian in Lagos, Arrest Suspect
The Police said in Lagos, August 8, disclosed that they had foiled an attempt to kidnap an Indian national in Ikorodu. They also said a suspect had been arrested in connection with the crime. Police spokesperson, Patricia Amadin, disclosed that a staff member of De-Star Metal Company, Odonla in Ikorodu, with others still at large were in involved in the crime. She said the Divisional Police Officer at Sagamu Road Station in Ikorodu got a tip-off of the kidnap and swung into action. Amadin said the suspect had made some useful statements to the police on the kidnap bid. The spokesperson said a man-hunt had been launched for the fleeing members of the gang.
Court Remands 26-Year-Old in Prison for Alleged Kidnap, Robbery
A Magistrates’ Court sitting in Osogbo, Osun State, August 10, remanded an accused, Ayomide Festus, 26, in prison custody, for allegedly kidnapping one Funmilayo Abiona and also robbing one Oluseye Abiona. The Magistrate, Fatimoh Sodamade, ordered that the accused should be kept behind the bars because of the gravity of the offences he committed. The court then adjourned the case to October 26 for hearing. The prosecutor, Wilson Mireti, told the court that the accused conspired with others at large to kidnap one Funmilayo Abiona and also robbed one Dr Oluseye Abiona of the sum of N600,000 at gunpoint. The accused was later apprehended with the intervention of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad in Osogbo, while the other culprits ran away during the raid. The accused pleaded not guilty but the court did not take it because of the gravity of the offences.
Delta Police Kill Kidnap Suspect, Rescue Victim
The Police at Isiokolo Division in Ethiope East LGA of Delta State, have gunned down a suspected kidnapper and rescued a female victim abducted August 8 at Ovwian-Aladja. Sources said that following a distress call to the Divisional Police Officer that a kidnap victim was being held hostage at an uncompleted building at Kokori, a police patrol team and vigilante men mobilised to the hideout. The kidnappers, who had demanded N30 million ransom from the family of the victim, opened fire on sighting the security team. Police Public Relations Officer, P Celestina Kalu, confirmed the killing of one suspect in the ensuing gun battle, while others escaped. The victim was rescued unhurt. Items recovered include one cut-to-size gun and two live cartridges. Meanwhile, efforts are on to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
JTF Arrests Suspected Kidnappers, Cultist and Oil Thieves
The Joint Military Task Force (JTF) in the Niger Delta,has said its operatives have arrested a notorious cult leader, two suspected kidnappers and two oil thieves involved in illegal bunkering. Coordinator of the Joint Media Campaign Centre, Lt.-Col. Ado Isa, August 11, said that the special squad of the JTF deployed in Ohaji/Egbema LGA of Imo State, raided cultists’ hideout at Eziorsu Community and arrested the most wanted and notorious gang leader, who had been terrorising the residents and the community’s environs. He said the arrested suspect gave his name only as Ukwa, adding that the operatives recovered sophisticated weapons and live cartridges from him. The spokesman stated that the suspect was currently in the custody of the JTF for preliminary investigation before being handed over to relevant prosecuting agency. Isa stressed that the troops, in collaboration with the Department of State Security, also arrested two suspected kidnappers the state.
Woman Sells Baby for N70,000
The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old woman for allegedly selling her newly born baby for N70,000. The suspect, identified as Chinwendu Agbo from Ehalumona but residing at Obolloafor Lodge was said to have sold her baby boy identified as Ngozi Eze which she gave birth to on August 6 for the said amount to another woman living in Enugu. The police public relations officer in Enugu, Ebere Amaraizu, confirmed the development, disclosing that the command had commenced investigation into the matter.
Toddler Stolen in Enugu
Police in Enugu State have commenced investigation into alleged theft of a two-year-old child of Mr. and Mrs. Emmanuel Nkwegwu in Umumba-Ndiagu, Ezeagu LGA of Enugu State. The victim, Chinemere Nkwegwu, was stolen in their house by yet-to-be identified persons on July 30, after the mother left him to go and fetch some water. Police Public Relations Officer, Ebere Amaraizu, confirmed the incident, lamenting that theft of babies was an emerging trend, assuring the parents of speedy investigation to recover the stolen baby.
Abducted DPR Workers Regain Freedom
Kidnappers have freed three workers of the Department of Petroleum Resources five days after they were abducted by gunmen in Bayelsa State. It was learnt that the gunmen collected ransom from the victims’ families before setting the workers free. The victims were abducted at Kalamatoru community, in the Southern Ijaw LGA of the state by the hoodlums who whisked them away to an unknown location on August 8. The victims were in the community for an inspection tour of oil some installations. The Police Public Relations Officer, Bayelsa State Command, Asinim Butswat, said nobody reported the incident to the police.
Man Nabbed for Attempted Kidnap of Child in Benin
The Edo State Police Command, August 13, arrested a middle-aged man for allegedly attempting to kidnap a little child at New Benin, Oredo LGA of the state. It was learnt that the man, had parked his car at a junction, picked up the child and put him in the boot of his car. It was gathered that the rescued victim, said to be a little boy, had just crossed over from the other side of the road when the suspect suddenly bundled him into the boot of his car. He was said to have entered his car and was about driving off when he was intercepted by some traders and passersby who saw his action as unusual. A source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the suspect was about to be attacked by some angry youths who feared that he could be a ritualist, before he was arrested by police officer.
Robbery
JTF Arrest Suspects over Attack on Military Base
The Joint Task Force (JTF) in the Niger Delta, has arrested six suspected pirates who attacked and killed four of its soldiers and a policeman at Nembe in Bayelsa State. The JTF spokesman, Lt.-Col. Isa Ado, August 9, confirmed that soldiers raided and destroyed militants’ camp at Ke community in Degema in a Cordon and Search Operation. The militants are suspected to be responsible for the attack at Ke Community in Degema LGA Rivers State. According to him, the camp was destroyed and 6 suspects comprising of 4 male and 2 female were arrested. Large quantities of arms and live ammunition were recovered from the camp. The JTF spokesman said men of the Task Force were pursuit of other fleeing suspects. Gunmen operating along the creeks of the Niger Delta, had on August 7, launched a daring attack on a military check-point, killing four soldiers and a mobile policeman attached to the JTF. The men, who came in three speed-boats also made away with arms and ammunitions stationed at the check point and two military gunboats.
Police Arrest Two for Robbing Bank Customer
Men of Ogun State Police Command, August 12, arrested two suspected armed robbers for allegedly trailing and robbing a bank customer of the money he withdrew. The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Muyiwa Adejobi, disclosed that the operatives attached to Onipanu Division of Ogun State Police Command made the arrest with the assistance by some members of the community and Vigilante Service of Ogun State, swung into action and raced to the house of the victim, where two suspected armed robbers were arrested, and their operational vehicle, a black Audi A4 car with number plates KTU 629 CU, was recovered. The suspects have confessed to have been involved in many robbery operations and other crimes in the area and they have been charged to court.
Police Arrest Armed Robber in Church
The Delta state police command, August 8, paraded 18 criminal suspects including a member of a 3-man robbery gang arrested in a church at Orerokpe in Okpe LGA. Delta State Commissioner of Police, Alkali Usman explained that the suspect, identified as Daniel Nonso, was apprehended at Covenant Peace Ministry when the pastor on suspecting their motive, alerted the police of their mission leading to the arrest of the suspect while his gang members escaped. The Police boss informed that the 18 suspects, include 14 armed robbery and kidnap suspects, while 4 were suspected cultists. He also disclosed that 2 kidnap victims were also rescued at various parts of the Ughelli Area Command. Items recovered according to the police boss include; 60 rounds of ammunition, 23 cartridges, 24 locally made guns and 10 different brands of vehicles.
NSCDC Arrests 13 Suspected Pipeline Vandals
The Lagos State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), August 10, said it had arrested 13 suspected pipeline vandals. The Commandant, Gabriel Abafi, said the suspects were arrested on August 5 and 7. Abafi said that eight suspects were arrested by the command with 706 plastic kegs of 25 litres each of Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) along Badagry area while they were attempting to move the product to neighbouring countries of Benin, Togo and Ghana. He disclosed that the Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft, also handed over five other suspects to the command with 81 drums of 250 litres each of petrol recovered from them. Abafi warned those who were still in illegal act to stop or face the wrath of the law. He advised Nigerians, especially youths not to engage in illegalities but rather to find a legitimate business to do.
Car Snatcher Apprehended by Police
A notorious car snatcher, identified as Jeremiah Ehindero, August 8, nabbed by the men of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). The suspect, according to police sources, was arrested at Badagry in Lagos State after snatching a Toyota Picnic Car from one Albert Oluwasegun in Ondo town. Ehindero, who has been tormenting motorists in the south west geo-political region, as revealed by police sources, committed the crime in Ondo town where Oluwasegun was his last victim. Upon his arrest, the suspect confessed to the crime and later took the police to Ibadan where he sold the stolen vehicle to a businessman identified as Olalekan. The suspect is currently being detained at the State CID, Akure. Police spokesman, Wole Ogodo confirmed the incident and the arrest of the suspect.
Police Smash Notorious Car-Snatching Gang
Operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in Lagos, have smashed a notorious gang of interstate robbers, which specialised in snatching cars. Two members of the gang, Evans and Benson, were apprehended when SARS operatives stormed Benin, Edo State capital, in search of a car snatched at gunpoint from a Lagos-based businessman, Alhaji Babangida Isah, in Lagos. The operatives, while trailing a cell phone stolen from Alhaji Isah, along with his car, arrested Demodia, an auto mechanic, who was in possession of two stolen cars at his workshop. During interrogation, 27-year-old Evans, who is married with two children, confessed that he was a receiver of the gang’s stolen vehicles.
Oyo Police Foil Bank Robbery in Oyo
The police in Oyo State, August 12, foiled plans by suspected robbers and international fraudsters to defraud a first generation bank in Iseyin, a community in Oke-Ogun area of the state. The suspects reportedly lured a member of staff of the bank in charge of teller unit, Mr. Owoade Olusegun, to release the form grabber of the bank to them and connect the bank’s internet system to facilitate easy access and transfer of customers’ money from the bank. The suspects were said to have threatened the bank’s security guard and collected the telephone number of the person in charge of the teller unit. A native of Iseyin, Ojo Taofeek, was allegedly used by the syndicate to lure the bank staff to release the form grabber and connectivity to the Internet. Meanwhile, six persons have been arrested in connection with the crime.
Gang Incidents
3 Killed in Makurdi Cult War
At least three persons were feared dead in Makurdi, Benue State, following a bloody clash among rival cult gangs and members of a vigilante group in the city. The fight for supremacy by the cult groups started at the Welfare Quarters area of the city, where no fewer than three persons were shot, including members of the vigilante group who had intervened in the fight. State Police Public Relations Officer, Austin Ezeani, August 8, confirmed the incident, saying police recorded two deaths.
Community Leaders Arrested for Sponsoring Cult Activities
The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a monarch, His Royal Highness, Dr. Gideon Nwokocha and two others in the Ogba/Egbama/Ndoni Local Council of Rivers State for sponsoring cult activities in their domain. The State Commissioner of Police, Chris Ezike, August 12, disclosed that the community leaders organised and taxed members of the community N1 million each, which was donated to a notorious cult leader of the Icelander group called Don-Wali. The police boss said the arrest of the community leaders has opened a new chapter in the connivance, involvement and sponsorship of community keepers in cultism.
Hoodlums Set Teenager on Fire, Post Obituary
Some hoodlums have set a 17-year-old boy, Lekan Agbaje, on fire on Amodu Street, in the Idi Oro, Mushin area of Lagos. It was gathered that the attacker initially stabbed their victim before they set him ablaze and left him for dead. It was learnt that Lekan was, however, rescued by passersby and policemen from the Alakara division, who rushed him to a private hospital. It was gathered that the assailants who were confident that the teenager was dead, pasted his obituary posters in the community. It was learnt that on August 8 when the teenager and a friend had strolled out, but were ambushed by the hoodlums. Lekan, who the assailants reportedly claimed was a member of a rival faction, was dragged to a corner and stabbed several times before his assailant doused him with kerosene and set him on fire. They reportedly fled the scene when they sighted a police patrol vehicle approaching the area.
Cultist in Court over Murder of Gang Leader
The Lagos State Police Command, August 12, arraigned an alleged cultist, Adeola Adebowale, 34,before the Ebute-Meta Magistrates’ Court, Lagos State, for allegedly killing a former cult leader by binding his hands and legs and throwing him into the lagoon. The deceased, Godwin Victor, aka Sangba, was abducted by some cultists in the Akoka area of the state. Sangba was reportedly kidnapped by members of the gang he once led because of his decision to quit the group and embrace normal life. The accused was arraigned on two counts of murder. Inspector C. Adams, who represented the police prosecutor, Sergeant Mariam Dauda, asked that the defendant be remanded in custody for 30 days pending “the time the case file shall be duplicated and forwarded to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions”.
Drugs
NAFDAC Nabs 5 for Faking Consumables
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), August 7, said it had arrested five persons for alleged faking and sale of expired consumer products. The Director General of the agency, Dr. Paul Orhii, who was represented by the Head of the Investigative and Enforcement Directorate, Kingsley Ejiofor, said the suspects were arrested following intelligence report which showed they were counterfeiting Derica Tomato Paste, maxiquine syrup, corn beef, among other consumer products. According to him, one of the suspects, Charles Onyekachi imported a 1.20 feet container of the Derica Tomato Paste from China and shipped them to Cotonou, Benin Republic from where they were transported to Kano. He said a criminal charge had been filed against the suspect at the Federal High Court, Lagos, where he would be arraigned. Orhii said the agency also arrested two suspects, Tochukwu Ozala and Obiora Ochuba for production, distribution and sale of counterfeit Maxiquine Syrup.
Task Force Seizes 56 Bags of Narcotics
The FCT Special Task Team on City Management has made a major breakthrough in its fight against criminal activities in the Federal Capital Territory as it impounded 56 bags of assorted hard drugs, including cannabis. The FCT Permanent Secretary, John Chukwu, August 12, revealed that the Task Team discovered the hard drugs in a depot during its covert operation at Tura-Bura, behind Apo Roundabout. According to him, the 56 bags of cannabis and sundry hard drugs seized by the FCT Task Team would have positive multiplier effects on the fight against criminal activities in Abuja because most crimes are committed under the influence of hard drugs.
Customs Seizes N50m Indian Hemp In Kebbi
The Nigeria Customs Service, Sokoto/Kebbi/Zamfara Area Command, on Thursday announced the seizure of Indian hemp and other contraband valued over N50 million. The Controller, Mr Muhammad Kabir, August 12, said all the items were seized at the Kamba border post in Kebbi. He listed the goods to include 250 parcels of compressed and processed Indian hemp, 598 cartons of mosquito coils, eighteen bales of sports wears, 396 cartons of nescafe and other prohibited items. Kabir stated further that an articulated vehicle was impounded. He assured that the command would continue to protect Nigeria’s borders under it.
NDLEA Docks Man over Illegal Drug Deal
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), August 14, arraigned one Andrew Elijah at a Federal High Court, Lagos, for allegedly dealing in substances suspected to be Indian hemp. Elijah, 19, and unemployed, with no definite address, was said to have been caught by officials of the agency with 500 grammes of the substance. The Prosecutor, Orji Kalu, told the court that the accused committed the offence on May 13, at New Market in Lekki area of Lagos. Kalu said that the accused was caught by an NDLEA patrol team. In his ruling, Justice Mohammed Yunusa, ordered that the accused should be remanded in prison custody. He adjourned the case to August 19 for review of facts.
Maritime
Terrorism
Boko Haram Kills Four in Borno Highway Ambush
Members of the Boko Haram sect, August 9, laid ambush on a Borno State highway, killing four persons, and abducting two. A member of the youth vigilance group, said that the notorious militants ambushed commercial motorists at a remote village, Nwajurko near Sabon Gari in Damboa LGA. Three others were left injured and taken to the hospital for treatment. Witnesses said the sect opened fire on commercial vehicles conveying travellers who unknowingly drove into their ambush.
Scores Killed as Explosion Rips Through Borno Market
About 47 people were killed and dozens wounded when a bomb was detonated in a market in Borno State on August 11. The explosion ripped through the weekly market in the village of Sabon Gari, during peak trading. The explosion happened inside the market at the mobile phone section, near the livestock section of the market,” said Yuram Bura, a member of a local vigilante group, disclosed. It was concealed in a knapsack used for spraying herbicides. It was smuggled into the market and apparently abandoned. Witnesses said the blast bore the hallmarks of Boko Haram, which has previously targeted crowded bus stations, markets, mosques and churches during its bloody six-year insurgency.
Army Okays Return of Residents to Recaptured LGAs
The Nigerian Army, August 113, said three of the 20 LGAs of Borno State recaptured from Boko Haram are now free to be inhabited by fleeing residents. The three local government include Konduga, Bama and Gwoza, and as a preliminary step towards relocating, the local government areas and building the confidence of the fleeing residents of the area to return, camps have been built in the towns. The Nigerian army has also commenced medical outreach aimed at giving free medical treatment to those affected by the insurgency in the liberated towns. The Commander of the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army with headquarters in Maiduguri, Major General Lamidi Adeosun, said Maiduguri has been overstretched and there is immediate need for the fleeing residents to return to their towns and villages.
17 Nigerians Held Hostage by Islamic Cleric Freed
Police detained around 70 people, some apparently being “held as prisoners” by an Islamic holy man, during a raid on an Islamic school in northern Cameroon, according to reports on August 10. During the raid on August 8 in Ngaoundere, capital of Adamawa region, police found 17 Nigerians — 10 women, one man and six children — who were in the country illegally, 19 Cameroonians without official papers and 35 other Cameroonians, a source close to the security services reported. Apart from the holy man, the rest of the group appeared to be prisoners of the school and some were in chains, the source said, adding that the circumstances surrounding their imprisonment was still being investigated. A police source confirmed the arrests, describing the place as a “Koranic school” where “many people” were “held as prisoners by a holy man”.
17 Boko Haram Insurgents Killed by Vigilance Group in Borno
Seventeen members of the Boko Haram terrorist group were killed on August 12 by youth vigilance group in Lahou village, Borno state. The leader of the youth vigilance group in the area, Apagu Bitrus said the terrorists attacked Lahou at about 4pm but met their Waterloo as his team was able to overpower them and equally seized two vehicles from them. He revealed that the attackers were all between the ages of 12 and 17 years.
Boko Haram Gets New Leader
It emerged yesterday that the terror group Boko Haram has a new leader – Mahamat Daoud – raising speculation that its past leader Abubakar Shekau, who has not been seen in the group’s videos for months, may have been killed.Making this known, Chadian President Idriss Deby said Shekau had been replaced by Daoud who has never been heard of before. Deby also declared that efforts to combat Boko Haram had succeeded in “decapitating” the group and would be wrapped up this year. Benin, Cameroun, Chad, Niger and Nigeria have all pledged troops towards the new force.
6 Bombers Arrested as Insurgents Kill 6, Abduct 4 Women
At least six people were killed on August 11, while four women were abducted by Boko Haram insurgents, who invaded Bale Mamman village, near Maiduguri, the Borno State capital. This came as six suspected suicide bombers were, August 12, arrested by members of the civilian JTF and paraded at Sector 4 located at Milk Shop in Maiduguri. A source disclosed that the sect stormed a remote village of Bale Mamman, in the outskirts of Maiduguri, killing six civilians and succeeded in abducting four women. Meanwhile, the arrest of the six suspected suicide bombers in Maiduguri, is coming less than 48 hours after suicide bombers attacked Sabon Gari Market in Damboa LGA, killing dozens and barely 12 hours after local vigilante in Damboa reported threat letters warning of more attacks found at the scene of the blasts. The latest arrest of the suspects, according to sources, took place in the evening as traders and buyers were rushing home after the close of business.
Political/Government Agencies
Military Intensifies Efforts to Neutralise Suicide Bombings
The Nigerian military has vowed to intensify efforts to neutralise the capacity of Boko Haram to carry out suicide bombings in the North East. The Director of Defence Information (DDI), Col. Rabe Abubakar, August 12, condemned the spate of suicide attacks in the North East where scores of innocent lives are lost on regular basis. Abubakar assured that the military was putting multi-pronged approach to stop those perpetrating the heinous crimes. The Defence Spokesman appealed to the general public to be extra vigilant and be wary of strange faces and objects in their localities.
NAF Deploys More Combat Aircraft in North-East
The authorities of the Nigerian Air Force have deployed more combat aircraft to intensify the on-going operation against the Boko Haram insurgents in the North East. The Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Dele Alonge, said in an electronic mail on Thursday that the deployments were made shortly after a recent visit of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, to the mission areas.
The deployed aircraft include the F-7Ni fighter aircraft, Mi-24/35 attack helicopters, Agusta 109 LUH, Supa Puma Combat Support helicopter and ATR-42 surveillance aircraft. Alonge said that ATR-42 surveillance aircraft had been away for scheduled maintenance.
Murder/Assassinations
Protests as Policeman Kills Bus Driver in Port Harcourt
Commercial activities at the Mile 4 axis of Ikwerre Road in Port Harcourt metropolis were shut down on August 8 as residents and commercial transport operators took to the streets for the second day to protest against the killing of a bus driver, David Legbaraa, by a policeman, Sergeant James Imhalu. Shops were closed while most people stayed in-doors as suspected hoodlums took advantage of the protest to harass passers-by and vandalise properties. Legbaraa was shot and killed on August 7 at Whimpy Junction, Ikwerre Road, Port Harcourt by Sergeant Imhalu, who was on a stop and search duty. This action sparked off spontaneous protest from drivers, sympathisers and indeed members of the public who saw the action of the policeman as unjustifiable. The protest spilled to major highways and streets in the city, leaving commuters stranded for hours.
Gunmen Kill Teenager, Trader in Lagos
Unidentified gunmen, August 7, invaded the Simpson and McCullum streets in Ebute-Meta, Yaba area of Lagos State, and shot dead two persons. The deceased include a barbecue seller, identified as Shuaibu Akorede, and a 15-year-old boy, Ahmed Alao. The gunmen, who reportedly came in a tricycle, forced residents and shop owners to quickly lock up their doors. The attackers were said to have left the area at about 8pm. It was gathered that policemen from the Adekunle division, Yaba, came to evacuate the corpses to a mortuary.
Seven Killed in Plateau Villages
At least seven persons have been killed in three different attacks in Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau State. In one of the attacks, some unknown gunmen laid ambush for some cattle herdsmen in Kassa village, swooped on them and killed three. Also, a vehicle loaded with four cows was attacked on its way to the cattle market in Bukuru, Jos South LGA. The owner of the cows, Mallam Ali Suleiman, was killed, but the driver of the truck, Samaila Ibrahim, escaped with bullet wounds. Another three corpses were recovered along Barkin Ladi road. The three bodies were later discovered to be those of three Fulani young men who left Saminaka, Kaduna State, to visit their Kinsmen in Sho village of Barkin Ladi council area. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, Emmanuel Abu, confirmed the attack on the travellers.
Man Hacks 3-Year-Old Child, Two Others to Death in Edo
A man, popularly called Alhaji at Ibillo, Akoko Edo LGA of Edo State hacked 3 persons to death after a quarrel over the ownership of a bitter leaf plant in the compound on August 9. The deceased included a man, Aliu Ademo, a girl and a 3-year-old boy. Trouble started when the Alhaji had a heated quarrel with the daughter of a co-tenant called Favour over the bitter leaf plant in the compound. According to a source, Alhaji went to harvest the vegetable without the consent of the owner which angered the daughter of the woman, Favour. Alhaji suddenly came out with a cutlass and beheaded the girl. Mr Aliu, who saw what happened, started shouting, Alhaji ran after Isaac, the little boy to kill him but Aliu stopped him in order to save the boy. The effort however failed as the aggressor succeeded in killing both the small boy and Aliu. He abandoned his cutlass and took off after the killing. The Police Public Relations Officer, Stephen Onwechei, confirmed the incident, adding that the police were on his trail. He vowed that the suspect would be arrested.
Alleged Killer of Iyaloja General Docked
The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Abdulmajid Ali, August 8, disclosed that the suspected killer of Iyaloja-General of Ijebuland, Alhaja Saidat Elewuju, has been arrested and charged to court. Elewuju was killed on July 8 at her residence in Ijebu Ode. Ali also paraded 23 suspects, among whom were ritualists, cultists, kidnappers and murderers, at the state command headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta. The Commissioner also said his men would soon catch the suspected ritualist linked with the recent abduction of a 20-month-old baby, Opeyemi Ogundele, Chief Olasile Ifayemi.
Man Stabs Girlfriend to Death
A 30-year-old man, Richard Effiok, August 10, confessed to stabbing his girlfriend after three rounds of sex. Effiok, who identified his deceased girlfriend as Bassey Udoh (23), said the incident happened on May 22, 2015 in Calabar. Effiok disclosed that the problem started after the lady rejected the N1,000 that he gave her as transport fare back home, insisting that she wanted N5000. The quarrel led to a fight and he brought out a sharp kitchen knife and stabbed her. According to him, it was his neighbours that called the policemen that arrested him.
Assailants Kill Man in Fulani Camp
A man, identified as Babangida Oni, was, August 8, killed in his house at Fulani Camp in Ise-Akoko, Akoko North-East LGA of Ondo State. It was learnt that one of the villagers had gone to the late Oni’s house only to find his lifeless body on the ground in a pool of blood with several machete cuts all over his body. The distressed visitor was said to have raised the alarm, alerting other villagers. The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Wole Ogodo, confirmed the report but said the command had not made any arrest in connection with the incident.
Aide to Council Service Boss Killed in Delta
Unidentified persons suspected to be hired assassins, August 9, allegedly killed the personal assistant to the Delta Council Service Commission chairman. The victim, Ese Emajemite, was killed at Orerokpe, Okpe LGA of the state while on his way home after he returned from a church programme in Asaba. Confirming the incident, the Police Commissioner in the state, Alkali Baba Usman, said the Police were investigating the circumstances surrounding the killing and noted that the police would do everything possible to fish out the killers. Emajemite was shot at close range and was quickly rushed to the state-owned teaching hospital in Oghara, where he finally died.
Gunmen Kill Former Lawmaker in Zaki-Biam
Gunmen, August 11, killed a former lawmaker, Douglas Begha, and two other persons in Zaki-Biam, Ukum LGA of Benue State. Several other people were also injured in the attack. The trio including Begha were murdered in his home at Kendev Village, on Kilometer three, Zaki-Biam road, in the presence of his 12-year-old son who was also shot by the gunmen. Confirming the incident, Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Matthew Oku, said the gunmen, while escaping also shot and killed a cyclist, whose motorcycle they escaped with. Oku stated that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Dibal Yakadi, had already stepped into the matter adding that investigation into the killings was in progress.
Woman Dies after Fight over Boyfriend in Bauchi
Police in Bauchi State have arrested a 30-year-old man, Nasiru Usman Banki, and a lady over the death of his girlfriend in Bauchi. Police Public Relations Officer, Haruna Mohammed, who confirmed the incident, said the deceased, known as Iklima Alhassan (28), had on August 9, visited her boyfriend, Nasiru, but met another lady, Fatima Baba Isa, 22. This situation resulted in a fight between the two women. Police spokesman disclosed that passers-by found the unconscious woman along Maiduguri by-pass and drew the attention of a police patrol team that rushed the victim to the hospital, Bauchi, were she was certified dead on arrival by a medical doctor and the corpse was deposited in the mortuary for post-mortem examination. The police spokesman said the deceased’s boyfriend and the other lady were arrested and were assisting the Police with useful information that could help ascertain the cause of her death.
Command Charges Hoodlum with Killing of Two
The Lagos State Police Command, August 11, arraigned one Sodiq Mutiu, an alleged conspirator in murder and malicious damage, before an Ebute-Meta Magistrates’ Court. Mutiu was accused of being a member of a gang that had a clash with other gangs in December 2014, killing two persons in the process. The accused was also said to have terrorised the Ijora-Badia neighbourhood and damaged property. The police said witnesses had claimed that there were about 30 young men involved in the December clash, adding that the clash was not the first of such in the neighbourhood. It was gathered that five of the hoodlums had been arraigned earlier in the year.
Rivers Police Arraign Killer Cop
The police in Rivers State have said the policemen who shot and killed a bus driver, David Lagbara, in Port Harcourt on August 7, has been dismissed from the service and charged to court. Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Chris Ezike, made the disclosure on August 12, said the police commenced full scale investigation immediately after the incident and that the outcome of the investigation indicted the officer for using his firearm against the provisions of Force Order 237. He said the police officer was tried in departmental orderly room, found guilty for offences against discipline, misuse of firearms and dismissed from the force. He added that the command was in torch with the deceased’s family and that the command had taken actions to ensure that justice is done.
Killings: Plateau Imposes Curfew in Riyom, Bakin Ladi LGAs
The Plateau Government has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Riyom and Barkin Ladi LGAs following a resurgence of violence there. This contained in a statement signed by Mr Rufus Bature, the Secretary to the State Government on August 13. The government assured that enough security personnel would be deployed to protect life and property, and cautioned against actions that could worsen the security situation in the area. The warring Berom and Fulani communities, who only recently resolved to end hostilities, took up arms against each other early this week. The Special Task Force in charge of security in Plateau has confirmed that many have been killed in the past few days but said that its personnel had been deployed to affected areas to restore law and order.
Rape
Man, 45, Rapes Girl, 12
A 45-year-old man, Ganiyu Ogungbemi, was on August 7, arraigned before an Osogbo Magistrate’s Court for allegedly raping a 12 year-old-girl. The accused was said to have committed the offence on March 17, 2015. Ogungbemi allegedly sneaked into the residence of the girl’s parents in Ejigbo, Osun State, where he allegedly raped her. The victim was said to have been left bleeding from the assault. A police prosecutor, Merit Wilson, told the court that the suspect assaulted the girl during the rape. The accused pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape and assault. His counsel, Raji Abiodun, urged the presiding magistrate, Olusola Aluko, to admit his client to bail in liberal terms. Aluko granted the accused bail in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in like sum. He transferred the case to the Ejigbo Magistrate’s Court and adjourned the case till September 2, 2015.
Man, 45, Rapes 14-Year-Old Girl in Lagos
An Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court, August 11, remanded a 45-year-old Santana Obend, charged with rape of a minor at Kirikiri Maximum Prison in Lagos. The Chief Magistrate, Tajudeen Elias, ordered the remand of the accused in prison pending the determination of his bail application on September 18, 2015. The suspect was accused of abducting and raping his neighbour’s 14-year-old daughter. The police prosecutor, Jimah Isegede, had told the court that the accused committed the offence on August 7, 2015, at his residence. “The accused abducted his neighbour’s 14-year-old daughter for three days in his apartment and unlawfully had sexual intercourse with her several times. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges. The chief magistrate adjourned the case to September 18, 2015.
Man Charged with Sucking Boy’s Genitals
A 30-year-old unemployed man, Emeji Christopher, was August 11, charged before a Yaba Chief Magistrate’s Court in Lagos for allegedly sucking the genitals of a nine-year-old boy. Emeji is facing a charge of indecent treatment of a child, but he pleaded not guilty. Police prosecutor, Inspector Rita Momoh, said the accused committed the offence sometime in November 2014 at Jaja Hall toilet of the University of Lagos, Akoka. She said the accused tricked the nine-year-old into one of the toilets in the hall, where he sucked his genitals. According to her, the police had been on the lookout for the accused, following a report by the boy’s parents, and was only apprehended recently. Chief Magistrate P. A. Adeeyo, granted the accused bail in the sum of N200,000 with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case to October 12 for substantive trial.
Controversy Trails Rape of Woman by 4 OPC Members
The Police in Lagos have denied any knowledge of the reported rape of a 30-year-old woman in Lagos by four members of Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) recently, at Alapere area of Lagos State. While sources close to the victim, August 11, said she was gang-raped by four OPC members, police have denied receiving such report at Alapere division. It was gathered that the victim was raped by the four men right inside her makeshift shop at Mile 12 market. According to the sources, after raping her, the suspects threatened to unleash more harm on her should she attempt to report the incident to anybody. It was gathered that the victim was rushed to a hospital where she narrated her experience to workers.
School Proprietor Docked over Rape of Pupils
A primary school proprietor, Joseph Ogunleye, was on August 13, charged before a Yaba Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos over alleged defilement of two pupils in his school. Ogunleye, 56, is standing trial on a charge of defilement. According to the prosecutor, Insp. Rita Momah, the accused committed the offence on June 27 at Ijegun, Ikotun, Lagos. She alleged that the accused unlawfully defiled an eight-year-old girl and a 10-year-old girl who were pupils in his school. “A nearby shop owner heard the two girls telling their friends about how their school proprietor touched their private parts and that they cannot tell their parents. Ogunleye, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge. The Magistrate, Mrs O.A. Erinle, granted bail to the accused in the sum of N500,000, with two sureties in like sum. The case was adjourned till October 26 for trial.
Others
Customs Seize N197m Goods, Arrest 30 Suspects
The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘C’, Owerri, Imo State, says it seized 48 contrabands with a Duty Paid Value of N197.38m in July, 2015. The Unit Area Comptroller, David Dimka, said 30 suspects were also arrested in connection with smuggling on the Benin-Asaba Expressway, Owerri-Port-Harcourt Road and the Enugu area. He said 20 cases were pending in court in respect of the seizures. Dimka stated that apart from the 48 seizures, an under-payment of N24.25m was also discovered. He expressed displeasures at the increased number of exotic vehicle seized by the unit on regular basis. The comptroller advised members of the public, who wished to purchase vehicles, to go through the official channel. He further warned that all illegally imported goods would be impounded, adding that ignorance of the law was not an excuse. Dimka also decried the upsurge of smuggling of goods in the country.
Four Killed in Helicopter Crash in Lagos
A Bristow Sikorsky S-76 helicopter, August 12, crashed in the lagoon bordering Oworonsoki, a suburb in Lagos, with 12 persons on board. The helicopter crash resulted in the death of four people whose bodies were recovered, the rescue of six others who were rushed to hospitals, and two others who remained missing. According to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the helicopter crashed en route from an oil rig. The General Manager, Public Affairs of NCAA, Fan Ndubuoke, confirmed that the helicopter, which was scheduled to arrive Lagos at 15.35 pm had 12 persons on board, including the American pilot and his co-pilot. It was gathered from the site that the passengers onboard the aircraft were contractors and dredgers reportedly working for Indigo Dredging Company.
Bureau finds crashed helicopter Black Box
The Accident Investigation Bureau, August 14, announced that it had recovered the Black Box of the Bristow helicopter that crashed into the Lagos lagoon on August 12. The Black Box contains the Cockpit Voice and the Flight Data Recorders. Commissioner of the Accident Investigation Bureau, Dr Felix Abali, made this known while displaying the two devices to aviation correspondents at the bureau’s headquarters in Lagos.
NAFDAC Arraigns Businessman for Production of Fake Beverage
A businessman, Magnus Onyenkwu, who allegedly produced a fake alcoholic beverage, Alomo Bitters, was on August 14, arraigned in Lagos by officials of the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The Prosecutor, Mr Bartholomew Simon, told the court that the accused committed the alleged offences sometime in January at his residence. He said that the accused unlawfully produced, packaged, falsely labelled, distributed and sold to the public a fake replica of Kasapreko Alomo Bitters. The prosecutor urged the court to remand the accused in prison pending trial. But the defence counsel, Mr Olusegun Akanbi, urged the court to allow him make an oral application for bail. Justice Mohammed Yunusa, ordered the remand of the accused in prison and adjourned the case to Aug. 20 for hearing on bail application.
Review/Analysis
Murder/assassination remains on the rise, and the authorities seem at a loss on how to completely eradicate these killings. This probably stems from the fact that the killings do not follow any particular pattern with no specific targets. The killings cut across various groups and strata of the society and the perpetrators’ profiles vary. Countless reports of related incidents continue to make headlines. Though the authorities made some arrests, efforts to stop the tide seem futile.
Kidnap/hostage cases also maintained a top spot on the crime index. The security agencies put up spirited efforts to apprehend suspects and rescue hostages. Massive arrest of criminal gangs and some other suspects were recorded. These incidents were prevalent in the south-south, south-east and south-west regions.
Robbery incidents took a soft pedal with few cases on record. All accolades should go to the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) for their effort in the arrest of suspects, vandals and gang leaders in parts of the south-west and south-south regions.
Terrorism took a nose dive this week as the Nigerian military troops have remained resolute in their bid to flush all terrorist activities from the north-east region of the country. Though there were attacks by the Boko Haram insurgents, some of these were repelled by the military in a fierce battle to recapture towns and villages under the control of the terrorist. However, the terrorist, still successfully carried out bomb attack on a market, claiming scores of lives. It is cheering that the military has assured displaced residents of hitherto captured areas that they could return to their homes, as some of the town had been fully liberated from the terrorists.
The government charges every Nigerian and persons that are resident in Nigeria to be security conscious. It is the individual and collective responsibility of everyone to be a neighbourhood watch. Take cognizance of your environment to keep you and your neighbour safe.