Villeworth Security Services Ltd

week 38

SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY

S/N	CATEGORY	MAJOR INCIDENTS
1	Kidnap/Hostage	12
2	Robbery	8
3	Gang	6
4	Drugs	5
5	Maritime Incidents	1
6	Terrorism	6
7	Political/Government Agencies	1
8	Murder/Assassinations	6
9	Rape Incidents	7
10	Others	6
	Review/Analysis

Kidnap/Hostage Incidents

Brother of Ex-DG of DSS Kidnapped in Cross River

A community leader in Creek Town, Odukpani LGA of Cross River State, Chief Asuquo Ekpenyong Ekpe, has been kidnapped. Ekpe, the elder brother of the former Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Chief Ekpenyong Ita, was kidnapped from his residence in the early hours of September 5 by unidentified gunmen, who arrived in their speedboats through the Calabar River and escaped with their captive through a narrow canal. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the state police command, Hogan Bassey, confirmed the kidnap of Ekpe, adding that the police were on top of the situation.

Gunmen Abduct 85-Year-Old Monarch in Bayelsa

Heavily armed gunmen, September 4, robbed and kidnapped the 85-year-old paramount ruler of Gbarantoru community in Yenagoa LGA of Bayelsa State, His Royal Highness Chief Benjamin Weke. The octogenarian was reportedly abducted at his residence. A family member, Blessing Weke, reported that the gunmen had on July 1, sent a letter to the monarch, intimating him of their coming. According to her, they forcefully gained entrance into the residence and seized him. Spokesman of the Bayelsa State Police Command, Asinim Butswatt, who confirmed the attack, added that the marine police were combing the creeks to rescue the monarch.

Four-Year-Old Girl Stolen from Church

A four-year-old girl, Tope Ogundeyi, was, September 2, stolen from a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in the Ejigbo area of Lagos. The girl was taken after an unidentified thief entered the church and stole three “exotic’’ phones and abducted Tope Ogundeyi. It was gathered that the girl’s father, Olumide, had come to the church for service when the incident occurred. It was gathered that Olumide, his wife and his four children, along with a few members of the church, had slept inside mosquito nets in the church after a programme on September 1, but woke up to discover that Tope was nowhere to be found. Police Public Relations Officer, Patricia Amadin, confirmed the incident.

Kidnappers Demand N40 Million for Release of Abducted Christian Cleric

The kidnappers of Right Rev. Moses Tabuwaye have demanded N40 million as ransom for his release. Tabuwaye of Gwagwalada Diocese was on his way to Awka, Anambra State, for a church programme on September 4, when the kidnappers attacked at Onicha-Ugbo-Ewohimi Road in Delta State and taken to an unknown destination. Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Celestina Kalu, who confirmed the kidnap of the clergyman, said that police were on the trail of the kidnappers.

Abducted Bank Manager Rescued

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Celestina Kalu, September 7, disclosed that the Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad tracking team stormed a kidnappers’ camp at Obetim forest, near Kwale, in Delta State, and rescued a manager with First Bank, Lawrence Ekwuabu, who was abducted on September 3 along Kwale Road, unhurt.

Man Steals 4-Month-Old Baby to Sell

The Abia State Police Command has declared a manhunt for a man, who allegedly stole a four-month-old baby boy that he gave to his girlfriend, Kelechi Uche, to sell. Commissioner of Police, Joshak Habila, who paraded Kelechi in Umuahia, disclosed that the suspect was arrested by members of the public at Osusu Aku where she was looking for a buyer. According to the police boss, Uche and four other suspects, still at large, stole the boy at gun point on August 21 at Ntigha Uzo in Obingwa LGA of the state, and handed him over to the girlfriend to sell. He said Kelechi drew the suspicion of the public on August 26 when she could not breastfeed the baby who was crying uncontrollably. She was arrested by the curious members of the public following her incoherent and unsatisfactory answer when she was asked if she was the biological mother of the baby.

Gunmen Abduct Woman in Ughelli

A gang of unidentified gunmen, September 10 abducted the wife of a business mogul in Ughelli, Delta State. Confirming the incident, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Celestina Kalu, said the victim, Ruth Ukiure (35), was abducted while on her way back from church at Dortie Street, off Uloho Avenue. Ukiure was driving in the company of her children when the armed men blocked them with a black Volkswagen gulf saloon car, ordered her into their car and zoomed off to an unknown destination.

8-Year-Old Boy Kidnapped from School

A middle-aged man, Jonathan Cooker, was, September 6, arrested after he kidnapped an eight-year-old boy and attempted to exchange him for goods worth N51,000 in Surulere area of Lagos. The suspect reportedly kidnapped the primary school pupil, who was returning from a holiday class and took him to a provision store, where he ordered for crates of soft drinks worth N51,000. Instead of paying for the goods, he was said to have told the shop owner that he would be leaving his younger brother behind, to get money from the house. The unsuspecting shop owner obliged him and gave the crates of soft drinks to him. But the bubble burst after a passer-by who identified the little boy asked what he was doing in the shop. At that moment, Cooker reportedly increased his pace in a bid to escape from the scene. But he was immediately apprehended when the little boy told the passer-by that he was picked by the stranger.

Immigration Arrests Suspected Trafficker

The Oyo State Command of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has arrested a suspected human trafficker while allegedly making efforts to transport three ladies to Burkina Faso for prostitution. The suspect, Favour Airhuoyuwa, 25, was arrested with the girls at Agunrege village on Saki Road, Oyo State. Comptroller of NIS in the state, Innocent Akatu, September 8, disclosed that the victims were meant to expand the suspects’ business network in Burkina Faso. Akatu disclosed that NIS officers at Agunrege, along the Saki Road, intercepted the trafficker and the victims on their way to Burkina Faso for prostitution and all of them had confessed to it. The victims, aged between 17 and 20, said they agreed to the term specified by Airhuoyuwa about the trip for prostitution.

Four Arraigned for Kidnapping Policemen in Ogun State

The police have arraigned four men for allegedly kidnapping nine policemen on May 24, 2014 at the Arepo area of Ogun State. The accused were on September 8, arraigned on 10 counts of terrorism. The prosecutor, Raymon Odion, told the court that the accused kidnapped the victims at about 9am on the fateful day, adding that the crime contravened Section 2(c) (ii) of the Terrorism Prevention Act. However, after the 10 counts were read to the accused, they all pleaded not guilty. The prosecutor sought for an order to remand them in prison custody, as well as a date for commencement of trial.

Gunmen Abduct Dickson’s Adviser

Political Adviser to Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State, Chief Fyneman Wilson, was on September 9, abducted from his country home in Sagbama, Bayelsa State. This is the second time Wilson would be abducted from the same home by kidnappers. It was learnt that the adviser was seized by five gunmen who forcefully took him with his Personal Assistant, identified simply as Fred, before disappearing into the night through the River Forcados. The state government in a press statement by the commissioner for information and orientation, Kikile Dan-Osueme, confirmed the abduction.

Police Rescue Abducted Pastor

The Ebonyi State Police Command has announced the rescue of Pastor Johnson Obuna, who was kidnapped by three gunmen in Abakaliki on September 9. The cleric was rescued from his abductors on September 10. The State Commissioner of Police, Peace Ibekwe Abdullah, confirmed the kidnap and rescue. The Commissioner of Police warned those who want to bring disquiet and disorder in the State to steer clear from the state adding that the command would engage such persons with all lawful force. Obuna, also a medical practitioner, was kidnapped in his private hospital at Aguogboriga Estate in Abakaliki.

Robbery

Imo Police Smash Two Armed Robbery Gangs

The Imo State Commissioner of Police, Taiwo Lakanu, September 2, led an operation that swept two notorious armed robbery gangs that were terrorising road-users and residents of Aladinma/Ikenegbu and Mbaise/Douglas road, in Owerri. Lakanu warned other criminals including cultists, armed robbers and kidnappers to leave the state with immediate effect or face the superior power of his team. The operation, which commenced at 8.30pm following a distress call, was coordinated by the CP to boost the morale of his officers, who overpowered and apprehended the gangs with their arms. Exhibits recovered from the armed robbery suspects include locally made pistols with live cartridges. The CP reiterated that all hands must be on deck to reduce crime in the state to the barest minimum.

Police Arrest Robbery Suspects

The Police in Delta State have arrested six armed robbery suspects in Abraka. Police spokeswoman, Celestina Kalu, confirmed that six suspects were arrested by the police in Abraka after they allegedly robbed one Tubosun Elegbeleye of his tricycle at gun point on September 3. During investigation, police reportedly recovered "the snatched tricycle with Registration Number UWN 330 QU as well as one locally made cut-to-size gun and five live cartridges."

Robbers Raid Corps Members in Abeokuta

A four-man gang of armed robbers, September 5, invaded the residence of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and robbed them at gunpoint. It was gathered that the robbery, in the wee hours of the day, was the third in five months. According to the victims, the four-man gang escaped through bush path. Two of the bandits moved from one room to another, while the other two stood guard outside.

Police Arrest 4 Car Thieves In Sokoto

Four suspected car thieves have been arrested by the Sokoto State Police Command, as they recovered two stolen cars. The state police commissioner, Salisu Fagge, September 7, disclosed that the vehicles were recovered from Gusau in Zamfara State and Kamba in Kebbi State. One of the vehicles was recovered in Gusau when the suspect attempted to sell it. The second stolen vehicle was snatched by some six suspected thieves, who boarded the vehicle en route to Dakin Gari, Kebbi State. According to the CP, the passengers held the driver by the jugular, forced him out of his car and zoomed off. Luck, however, ran against them as four of the suspected car snatchers were caught in Kamba town of Kebbi State, while attempting to sell the stolen vehicle.

Armed Robbers Meet Waterloo in Abuja

Two members of an armed robbery gang that had been terrorizing residents of AMAC Estate, along Airport Road in Abuja in the last 4 months, met their waterloo during exchange of gun fire with the police on September 7.  The duo was killed, while other members of the gang fled before they could be apprehended.

FCT Police Arrest Nine Robbery Suspects

The Police Command in FCT has arrested nine ‘one chance’ robbery suspects, who disguised as cab operators to rob unsuspecting passengers of their valuables in the FCT and its environs. Police Public Relations Officer of the FCT command, Anjuguri Manzah, on September 11. The statement stated that the arrest was as a result of the renewed effort of the command to rid the territory of hoodlums. It stated that it arrested some handbag snatchers who were currently in the custody of the police undergoing investigation. The suspects, it stated, had made confessional statements and the Commissioner of Police in FCT, Mr. Wilson Inalegwu, had ordered their arraignment in court as soon as investigations were concluded.

Corps Members Nabbed for Alleged Robbery

Three members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) are in police net for allegedly robbing one Mrs Anyanwu Obioma at Halidu Gezu plaza in Suleja, Niger state. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Bala Elkana, September 11, said that the three corps members were arrested by a team of vigilante attached to the plaza. Elkana stated that those arrested and brought to the police, were brought on the allegation that the said suspects conspired and entered the shop of Obioma’s shop and robbed her of a cash sum of N150, 000.00. The police spokesman also disclosed that the corps members were also accused of stealing one Laptop valued at N140,000.00, recharge cards worth N159,000.00, three bags of rice valued N30,000.00 and 11 big sizes of milo valued N15,000.00.

Troops Kill 11, Clear 7 Enclaves of Cattle Rustlers

The troops of Nigerian Army operating in Faskari and Safana areas of Katsina State have killed 11 notorious cattle rustlers and cleared seven major rustlers’ enclaves. The Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Captain Ikechukwu Stephen Eze, disclosed that the troops conducted raids, ambushes and patrols in some of the affected areas aimed at ending cattle rustling in the state. Eze said the troops recovered items which included 157 cows, 140 sheep, 19 goats and six donkeys, and 19 locally made Dane guns, one locally made pistol, pieces of military uniforms, three national identity cards, two expired international passports, assorted charms and a pickup truck possibly used by rustlers for their nefarious activities.

Gang Incidents

One Killed as Rival Cults Clash in Ondo

A yet-to-be-identified man was killed after two rival cult groups clashed in Ondo town, Ondo State. The incident occurred on September 4 at the Fiwasaye area of the state during the annual Ogun festival. The victim, a suspected cult member, was reportedly trailed from Okegbala Street to Fiwasaye Street where he was hacked to death. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Wole Ogodo, confirmed the incident and said one person had been arrested in connection with the killing. Ogodo, who gave the name of the suspect as Seto Akinbobola, explained that the suspect had given the command useful information about the incident. He added that he was being held at the Department of Criminal Investigation of the command. He added that security had been beefed up at strategic locations in the town to forestall possible outbreak of violence.

Police Arrests 5 for Terrorising Community

The police in Benin City, Edo State have arrested five persons including the out-going youth Chairman of Uyinmwendin Community in Ikpoba-Okha LGA for allegedly terrorising residents of the locality. One cut-to-size single barrel gun and three live cartridges were said to have been recovered from one of the suspects who carried out the attack. Police spokesman, Stephen Onwochei, September 4, stated that the case was being investigated by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Benin City.

Navy Sets Illegal Refinery Ablaze, Arrests Suspects in Rivers State

The Nigerian Navy, September 6, discovered and set ablaze an illegal refinery with 145,000 litres of stolen crude oil in Buguma, Asari-Toru LGA of Rivers State. Commander, NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Shuwa Mohammed, disclosed this shortly after an aerial and land surveillance of areas where crude oil were illegally refined in the state. Mohammed explained that over 50,000 litres of illegally refined diesel stored in 10 cooking tanks and a badge with the capacity to store thousands of petroleum products were also destroyed by the Navy. Mohammed explained that operators of the illegal refineries took to their heels on sighting security operatives. He, however, disclosed that four suspects, who attempted to bribe the Navy with the sum of N600,000, were arrested and would be handed over to the relevant authority for further investigation and prosecution.

Clashes in Delta Claim 3

A group of people suspected to be herdsmen, September 6, attacked Onitsha Ukwuani, a community in Ndokwa West LGA of Delta, leading to death of three persons. Trouble started when the suspected herdsmen allowed their cattle to stray into the community farm lands leading to the destruction of many of crops. It was gathered that the villagers while trying to protect their crops were brutally attacked by the herdsmen, at the end of which three members of the community were allegedly left dead and their bodies deposited in an undisclosed morgue. Clashes between communities in Ndokwa and Fulani herdsmen had become a regular occurrence. The State Commissioner of Police, Alkali Baba Usman, said that three persons were arrested.

Three Killed as Soldiers, Militants Clash in Delta State

At least three persons were confirmed killed while others sustained injuries when men of the Joint Task Force (JTF), engaged suspected militants in a gun duel in Delta State. The commander of the force, Alani Okunlola, disclosed this on September 10 when parading a suspect allegedly arrested with various arms and ammunition. Okunlola said the operation took place in Benigboye community of Burutu LGA on September 5 when the JTF operatives raided a militant camp in the community. In the follow up operation on September 6, the troops, on getting information on the hideout of the suspected militants that attacked Odimodi community, launched a search operation and apprehended one Ebiwame Lamia. He listed weapons recovered from the camp to include medium machine gun, AK 47, light machine gun and AK 47 automatic rifle. Okunola added that other weapons recovered were SMG, G3 riffles, one single barrel gun, and Improvised Explosive Device and an identity card.

2 Shot in Ughelli Cult Clash

Two persons were shot by suspected cultists around the Ughelli urban of the metropolis in what could be regarded as a revenge attack by members of a rival cult gang. According to a source, one of the victims, identified as Josana, was shot in the stomach on September 9, while the second, was shot a day later. Ughelli and environs have been embroiled in series of cult related killings, leaving the security agencies helpless in tackling the activities of the cultists.

Drugs

Student Gives Indian Hemp-laced Cake to Fellow Student

The Delta State Police Command has arrested a student of the Delta State University Abraka (DELSU) for allegedly giving a female co-student a piece of cake laced with Indian-hemp. The suspect, Bassey Aniekan, was picked up by the police following a report that a certain student allegedly started "behaving abnormally" after eating a piece of cake from the said Bassey Aniekan. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Celestina Kalu, confirmed the arrest on September 4. The said female student apparently lost control of herself after taking bites of the cake, causing other students present at the private party to panic as the victim reportedly began to exhibit unusual behaviour. Bassey Aniekan confessed to mixing the cake with Cannabis (Indian hemp) without the knowledge of the girl.

Blind Marijuana Peddler gets 5-Year Jail Term

A 21-year-old man, Nura Abdullahi, has been sentenced to a jail term of five years for unlawfully dealing in 62 kilogrammes of marijuana. Abdullahi, who was convicted and sentenced on September 9, was said to have become visually-impaired in prison, where he was awaiting trial since his arrest on March 19, 2013. His conviction by Justice Mohammed Yunusa of a Federal High Court in Lagos was on the strength of his confessional statement and the exhibits tendered by the prosecution. Abdullahi, who was re-arraigned on September 3, 2015 on one count of unlawful possession of marijuana, had promptly pleaded guilty to the offence. At the Wednesday’s proceedings, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency’s prosecutor, J.I. Aernan, reviewed the facts of the case. To further prove the prosecution’s claims, Aernan, who held the brief of M.U. Ewah, tendered the bulk of the illicit substance recovered from the convict two years ago.

NSCDC Recovers Cartons of Hard Drugs in Jigawa

The Jigawa State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has recovered two cartons, containing suspected hard drugs in Dutse. The Commandant, Muhammad Gidado, September 7, disclosed that the items were recovered on September 5, in Malammadori LGA. Gidado said the items were recovered after three men, suspected to be hard drug dealers abandoned them and escaped. Gidado explained that the drugs recovered were Tramol and Exol tablets.

Police Bursts Indian Hemp Bunk, Arrest 8 Suspects

Detectives attached to Nsukka Area Command of the Nigeria Police Force have burst a popular Indian hemp bunk at Obollo- Afor, Udenu LGA of Enugu state, where all manner of cannabis were being retailed, smoked and supplied. Eight suspects were arrested for marketing and smoking of the illicit substance, while the proprietor of the bunk absconded. The anti-robbery crack team, working on a tip off, swooped on the bunk described as the most notorious joint for sales, distribution and smoking of the killer weeds, and arrested the suspects while they were smoking.  Other suspects were reportedly arrested at Obollo-Afor while selling the substance.

NAFDAC Impounds N40m Counterfeit Drugs in Delta

The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has impounded assorted counterfeit drugs worth over N40 million in Asaba, Delta State and also apprehended a 32-year-old suspect. The suspect, Paul Eli, was arrested at his residence in Asaba, where he was reportedly packaging the counterfeit drugs with mobile authentication number to make it appear genuine. The drugs found in his 3-bedroom apartment, where he operates from include Maloxine, Lumatem (anti-malaria drugs), LOFNAC (for body pains relief), Buscomac (for stomach pain relief) and Rysovin (anti-fungal drug) alongside already printed mobile authentication numbers. Chairman of the Federal Taskforce on Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods, Kingsley Ejiofor, September 8, confirmed the arrest.

Maritime

Air Force, Navy Move to Stop Criminalities along Waterways in Nigeria

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and Nigerian Navy (NN) have moved to stamp out oil theft, illegal oil bunkering and other criminal activities in Nigeria's coastal region. This was disclosed in a statement signed on September 5 by the Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Commodore Dele Alonge. Alonge said that the two services in a combined effort to combat illegal activities along the Nigerian water ways have re-strategized during a recent joint maritime operation.

Terrorism

Army Seizes N50m Worth of Fishes, Meat from Boko Haram

The military has seized over 2,000 cartons of smoked fishes and many bags of dried meat worth about N50 million from Boko Haram. Deputy Director Army Public Relations and spokesman, 7 Division Nigerian Army, Maiduguri, Colonel Tukur Gusau, said the over 2,000 cartons of smoked fishes and dried meat, were confiscated from Boko Haram from different communities in Borno. Gusau said the on-going military operations in the north-east have crippled the activities of Boko Haram, adding that the operation has compelled the insurgents to resort to using donkeys and other unusual tactics to attack some remote communities. He solicited for the support of members of the public for useful information that could assist in ending insurgency in the country.

Over 50 Killed as Terrorists Attack Market in Borno

At least 50 people were killed and scores injured when suspected Boko Haram terrorists invaded Kirawa village in Gwoza LGA of Borno state on September 3. Kirawa, a mountainous and remote area, which is located east of troubled Gwoza town, shares international border with Cameroon. The insurgents, who were armed with sophisticated weapons including AK47 rifles and petrol bombs, invaded Kirawa on their market day and wreaked havoc. Shops and houses were reportedly set ablaze after they were looted by the attackers.

Boko Haram Kills 30 in Borno

Boko Haram insurgents have killed 30 traders in a bomb attack at a market in Borno State on September 4. A suicide bomber stormed a weekly market at Linmakara in Gwoza LGA of the state, killing at least 30 traders while several others were seriously injured.  A middle aged man had pretended to push a cart before detonating the bomb at the centre of the market. Limakara is a remote village in southern part of Borno State and 65 kilometres from Askira-Uba.

Nigerian Troops Nab Major Boko Haram Drugs and Logistics Suppliers

The troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army have intercepted and arrested suspected suppliers of hard drugs and other stimulants to the Boko Haram terrorists, between Depchi and Geidam in Geidam LGA of Yobe State. The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, who disclosed this on September 8, said the arrested persons were also engaged in the supply of fuel in addition to hard drugs such as Cannabis, Chlorofone and tramol, among others. The DAPR said the arrest of the drug suppliers had reinforced the fact most of the terrorists are engaged in criminal activities. He assured Nigerians that the army would continue the fight against terrorism and insurgency in the country.

Army Frees 128 Arrested Boko Haram Suspects

The Nigerian Army, September 9, released 128 suspected Boko Haram members arrested in different locations of Borno State. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai, said the detainees were carefully screened by a joint intelligence cell, which included the Nigerian Army, police, Department of State Services (DSS) and representatives of Borno State. He said the Nigerian Army was evolving three major tasks in the fulfilment of its role in the counter-insurgency war in the North-east, adding that these include facilitating humanitarian support to all agencies involved in humanitarian activities, defeating the insurgents, facilitating humanitarian activities including observance of human rights and the restoration of administrative functions of all areas liberated. Those released comprised 109 males, seven women and 11 children, along with a baby belonging to a slain Boko Haram member.

Military Kills 10, Arrest 64 Suspected Terrorists

Soldiers of the One Mechanised Division of the Nigerian Army, Kaduna, have killed 10 suspected terrorists in various joint operations in the North-West zone of the country. During the operations, about 64 suspected terrorists and bandits were arrested. Those arrested had been handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution, according to the Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, One Division, Nigerian Army, Kaduna, Col. Usman Abdul. The One Division spokesman, September 9, disclosed that 7,119 cattle, sheep and goats were recovered from rustlers and bandits, who had been terrorising people from the zone. The operations were carried out by the combined team of the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Air Force, Police, Department of State Services as well as the Nigerian Customs, among others.

Political/Government Agencies

Police to Clampdown on MASSOB, IPOB

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, has ordered an immediate clamp down on persons or group of persons inciting violence and social disorder across the country. The Force spokesperson, Olabisi Kolawole, September 9, disclosed that the directive became imperative owing to the recent activities of members of the Movement for the Actualisation of Sovereign States of Biafran (MASSOB) and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in some parts of the country. This operational order, she said, empowered the police to arrest anybody fomenting any act of violence or disorder, or any act inimical to the security of the nation. The IG further warned that all persons so arrested for inciting violence, irrespective of their class or status in the society, would be charged to court accordingly.

Murder/Assassinations

Tenant Slaughters 85-Year-Old Landlady

The Police in Ogun State have arrested a man, identified simply as Abdullahi, for allegedly killing his landlady, Raliat Olasupo. It was learnt that Abdullahi slaughtered the 85-year-old landlady with a knife during an altercation over N9000, said to be an amount the landlady was supposed to pay Abdullahi for a service rendered. It was gathered that Olasupo, had accused Abdullahi of being a trouble maker, and had got the police to arrest the tenant and eject him from the house. However, on September 4, Abdullahi allegedly sneaked into the landlady’s room and slaughtered her with a knife. The matter was thereafter reported at the Ibafo Police Division, and Abdullahi was arrested. Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the incident.

Israeli Killed in Failed Kidnap Attempt

An Israeli national was, September 9, killed by suspected kidnappers at Wasa in Apo Mechanic village in Abuja after he resisted being abducted. Eyewitness said the Israeli, a staff of Gilmor, a construction company, was on his way to the construction site at about 8:30pm when four young men forced his car to a stop, dragged him out and attempted to force him into their car. While trying to resist the attempt, the kidnappers were said to have shot the Israeli. The Police are currently on the trail of the kidnappers.

Community Leaders Found Dead in Taraba

Two community leaders were, September 5, found dead on the outskirt of the Namnai village in Gassol Local Council of Taraba State. The deceased were the village heads of Namnai, Malam Musa Kachalla, and his ward head, Malam Manu Jahun. The Chairman of the council, Tukura Bashir, confirmed the incident. Bashir said that the leaders were on their way to settle a farmland dispute between herdsmen and farmers in the area. He explained that family members of the deceased raised the alarm after waiting for several hours without hearing from their loved ones on assignment outside the village. A search party organised by the community discovered the corpses in a pool of their own blood. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Joseph Kwaji, confirmed the development. He assured that the force would investigate the incident with a view to bringing the culprits to book.

Gunmen Kill Octogenarian Vigilante Leader, Son in-law in Katsina

Suspected gunmen have killed an 80-year-old leader of a local vigilante group, Adamu Koshe, and his son in-law, during a raid at Kankara town in Kankara LGA of Katsina State. The gunmen strangled the vigilante leader after failed attempts to kill him with a gun and also killed one Abu Garba, an in-law to the vigilante leader, who was with him when they struck. They blocked the main road and fired several shots before going straight to Baba Koshe’s house, a resident said on September 8. It was gathered that the attackers, who appeared to be on the trail of the octogenarian, stormed Kankara town shooting sporadically. The gunmen also invaded the residence of the vigilante leader at Sabon Gari area of the town after they scared people in the area. It was learnt that two persons who sustained injuries during the attack are currently receiving treatment.

4 Arrested for Alleged Murder of Farmer over Tubers of Yam

Detectives in Ondo State police command have arrested four suspects for the alleged murder of a farmer, Lamidi Adeyeye, over the theft of 10 tubers of yam. The deceased was reportedly hacked to death on his farm after he met one of his killers stealing his tubers of yam. The deceased had gone to his farm with the intention of bringing home his harvested tubers of yam, only to meet one of the suspects, identified as Dayo, removing the tubers of yam. The suspect was alleged to have removed six of the yams and was carrying the last four when the deceased caught him in the act. He was said to have struggled with the suspects but was overpowered. He managed to escape from the grip of the suspect who did not want him to raise alarm. The suspect reportedly caught up with him, killed him and covered his corpse with leaves inside the farm. Police spokesman, Wole Ogodo, confirmed the incident, saying investigation into the crime was continuing.

Family Urges Police to Investigate Death of Pregnant Woman

The Abia State police command has been tasked to unravel the circumstances surrounding the death of a 30-year-old woman following an assault by a group of six men at Owerrinta in Isiala Ngwa South LGA. Akwodu Onyendi, who was said to be four months pregnant, was allegedly attacked on July 29, 2015 during “a trial" in the house one Chimezie Mbaogu over accusations that she consulted a native doctor for undisclosed reasons. Counsel to the deceased and her family, Anthony Agbazuere, demanded for thorough investigation and justice. He named the suspects as Nnamdi Nworie, Chimjinwa Okechi, Ngozi Jonah, Chibueze Ephraim, Ugwunna Israel and Nweze Nwachukwu.

Rape

Pastor Rapes 16-Year-Old

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a pastor, Abraham Sunday, for allegedly raping a 16-year-old girl in Adalemo Estate along the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway. Sunday, the pastor of Christ In All Nations Church, Adalemo, was arrested by the Police on September 2, from where he was taken to the Department of Criminal Investigation, Yaba. It was gathered that Kike, who was ill, had been taken by the pastor to a house in Adalemo Estate on August 28 for deliverance prayer when the incident occurred. It was learnt that the victim’s mother became apprehensive after she did not hear from her daughter. The matter was said to have been reported to the police by the landlord of the house where Sunday allegedly camped the teenager to rape her. She was taken to a hospital, where a medical test confirmed that she had been raped. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Patricia Amadin, confirmed the pastor’s arrest.

Robbers Invade Ogun Hospital, Rape Patients, Nurses

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested suspected armed robbers, who allegedly robbed and raped patients and nurses at a private hospital in Ijebu-Ode. The Police also said the suspects were responsible for the killing of one Alayande Oladipupo after dispossessing him of his belongings in Ijebu-Ode. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Muyiwa Adejobi, said that 10 armed robbers had been arrested in Ijebu-Ode for the two incidents. According to Adejobi, the command made the arrest while acting on a tip-off that the armed men, who had been terrorizing Ijebu-Ode and its environs, were sighted at Molipa-Ikanga area in Ijebu-Ode on September 5.

Father Sexually Assaults 7-Year-Old Daughter

A seven-year-old girl has narrated how her father paid her after sexually abusing her at their Lagos residence. According to the girl, he touches her genitals whenever her mother was out. The victim’s mother discovered the assault after she interrogated the girl following a report of her strange behaviour by her brother. The girl confided in her mother that it was her father that always touched her private parts and that after touching her genitals, he would give her money. The mother, September 5, reported the case to the police and her husband was arrested. The victim’s father admitted that it was only once he abused his daughter.

Factory Worker Remanded in Prison for Raping Daughter

A Magistrate Court sitting in Osogbo, Osun State, has remanded a 34-year-old bakery worker, Mohammed Ahmed, in prison for allegedly raping his 14-year-old daughter. The accused person, who was arrested by the officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), was arraigned before the court by the prosecutor, Duro Adekunle, on September 4. Ahmed was charged with two counts of unlawful intercourse and assault of his daughter. The presiding magistrate, Mrs. Habibat Bashiru, ordered the accused person to be remanded at Ilesa Prison and she adjourned the case to October 30, 2015 when the formal bail application of the accused would be filed at the High court. Ahmed confessed to have raped his daughter six times only.

Security Guard Docked for Raping 7-Year-Old Girl

A 20-year-old security guard, Abass Haman, who allegedly raped his employer’s seven-year-old daughter, was on September 8, charged before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court. The accused, who lived in the gatehouse of his employers’ compound, is facing a one-count charge of rape. Prosecutor, Sergeant Jimah Iseghede told the court that the accused committed the offence on September 3 at his employer’s residence. The victim narrated her ordeal to her friend and her mother was later informed. The accused, however, denied the charge. The Chief Magistrate, Tajudeen Elias, adjourned the case to September 30 for ruling on the bail application.

Professor Suspended over Alleged Rape of Student

The Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Calabar, Professor Cyril Ndifon, accused of sexually assaulting a 20-year-old student in his office, was, September 10, suspended by the panel instituted by the school’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivara Esu. Professor Ndifon, who is the first professor of Law from Cross River State, was briefly arrested and detained by the police and later released before he was suspended by the panel set up to investigate him. The professor was accused by mother of the victim, Irene Akpan, who alleged that the incident happened between 3 and 5pm on August 29 at the dean’s private office. According to the lady, Professor Ndifon forcibly had sex with her daughter after a fierce struggle. The school authorities confirmed receipt of complaints from the victim, while the police also affirmed it but was quick to add that the matter was undergoing thorough investigation.

Security Guards Arraigned for Raping 15-Year-Old Girl

Two security guards, Gabriel Vincent (26) and Anthony Oguche (25), were, September 10, charged before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court in Lagos, for allegedly gang-raping a 15-year-old girl. The accused persons were said to have lured the teenage girl into their room at their security post and held her hostage for several hours. According to the charge, the duo is facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, abduction and rape. However, when the charge was read to the accused persons before the Magistrate, Mrs. Bola Osunsanmi, they pleaded not guilty. Magistrate Osunsanmi granted the accused persons bail of N500,000 each and directed them to produce two responsible sureties in like sum. The matter was adjourned to October 26 for further hearing.

Others

Zamfara, Adamawa Floods Kill 25
…Washes Out 400 Houses, Leaves 2000 Homeless

Floods in Zamfara and Adamawa states have killed 25 people and submerged communities. At least 24 people lost their lives in Gusau, Zamfara State, following a heavy downpour on September 5. Property worth millions of naira was destroyed, including food items and domestic animals. The rain also washed away over 400 houses and left over 2,000 people homeless. Some of those the deceased were trapped in their rooms, while sleeping, while others drowned in the flood water, as help was not in sight. The Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency (ADSEMA), confirmed that a six-year-old boy was killed, while 116 communities had been completely submerged by flood wrecking many parts of the state. The Executive Secretary of the agency, Haruna Furo, said that two-thirds of the state was under threat of flood.  According to the secretary, the volume of water released from Kiri dam in Guyuk, Magar dam in Madagali and Lagdo dam from Cameroun Republic has made rivers across the state to overflow their banks.

6 Traders Drown in Onitsha

Six roadside traders, September 5, fell into a drain and were swept away by flood during a heavy downpour in Onitsha, Anambra State. An eyewitness said the traders were doing their businesses on planks laid across the Sakamori gutter, when the planks suddenly broke and they fell in. The traders had for a long time converted the Sakamori area into a roadside clothes market. However, Police Area Commander for Onitsha, Philip Ezekiel, said he was not aware of the incident.

Police Arrest 22 MASSOB Members

The Police have arrested 22 members of the Movement for the Actualisation of Sovereign States of Biafra (MASSOB) in some parts of the country. The police said four suspects were apprehended in Anambra State, six in Imo State, 11 in Delta State and one in Abia State. A statement from the Force Public Relations Officer, Olabisi Kolawole, on September 8, said the arrests were sequel to the order by the Inspector–General of Police, Solomon Arase, for a clampdown on persons or group of persons inciting violence and social disorder across the country. The police said all the persons so far arrested for inciting violence, irrespective of their class or status in the society would be charged to court.

Cable Vandals Electrocuted in Enugu, Anambra

Two suspected cable vandals, were, September 5, electrocuted in Enugu as they were in the process of removing the power distribution property belonging to the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC). While two suspects died, a young man was hospitalized in Anambra State for burns to his body while attempting to vandalize EEDC’s 2.5 MVA transformer, which serves customers within Nnewi town. EEDC’s Public Affairs Manager, Eugene Aniowo, who disclosed this on September 6, said the incidents had been reported to the police, even as he lamented incessant vandalism of EEDC’s installations in various parts of the South-East geopolitical zone.

Family Alleges Police Torture over N20,000 Bribe

A geophysicist at a company in the Lekki area of Lagos, Mr. Sunday Alabi, says his younger brother, Tope, and brother-in-law, Wale, narrowly escaped being killed by some overzealous policemen attached to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad of the state police command. He stated that the policemen, who arrested and tortured him and other victims on August 28, had raided their area, Atunise Street, Isheri-Olowora. Alabi added that they were later thrown into a cell in the command till the following day and were released after paying N20,000 bribe. Recounting the dehumanising conditions to which he and his family members were subjected to by the police, Alabi urged the police authorities to investigate the case and discipline the policemen found wanting.

Family of Five Killed in Lagos Inferno

A family of five, consisting of father, mother, grandmother, a girl and an infant, were killed in a fire incident at their Lagos residence on September 9. Rescue agencies said the deceased persons may have died of suffocation before the raging fire burnt them. This was because the father of the family was found trapped under a window by the roof which had fallen on his back. An eyewitness, Ojo Saheed said the fire which started around 12.30am, was not noticed until smoke started coming from the ceiling. Ojo said residents had battled to put out the fire, without knowing that the family was trapped inside the apartment. The south-west Public Relations Officer of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Ibrahim Farinloye, confirmed the incident.

11 MASSOB Members Arraigned in Court

The Delta State police command has arraigned 11 members of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra before an Asaba magistrates’ court. The members were arraigned over alleged conspiracy, unlawful gathering, incitement, false publication and being in possession of illegal arms. After the charges were read, the Magistrate, Patrick Uzonitsa, referred the case file to the Delta State Director of Public Prosecution and remanded the suspects in prison custody. He adjourned the case till October 23, 2015.

Review/Analysis

Kidnap/hostage incidents remained top on the crime index, business men, political figures and minors were mostly the victims. While the police were still investigating the case, some suspects and criminal gangs were arrested and apprehended. The south-east region witnessed more of these activities.

Armed Robbery moved up the crime index as armed robbers took to the streets, robbing killing people and even serving corps members. The authorities in a bid to rid the affected regions of these dastardly acts made major arrests of gang leaders and suspects across the country.

Rape incidents also took an upward plunge. There was also the bodacious raid of a private hospital by armed men, who robbed and raped nurses and patients alike. It was also disheartening to record cases of sexual assault on minors by their fathers or trusted persons. The police in a bid to rid the nation of these heinous crimes arrested some suspects, while others remain large. The south-west bore the brunt of these dehumanising crimes.

Gang and drugs took a downward plunge, though some of the gang activities took lives and properties but their activities were hampered by the brute force of the police as they went on a sweep out of related activities.

With Boko Haram still to be defeated by the military, activities of the terrorist groups remains unabated with killing of innocent persons and detonation of explosives. The military remains on the offensive with massive assaults on Boko Haram enclaves. The north-east witnessed these terrorist activities.

Murder/assassination also took a nose dive, with lone killing here and there. The assassins were very unlucky as they tried to fleeing from the authorities’ who descended heavily on them. This was witnessed across various parts of the country.
The government charges every Nigerian and persons that are resident in Nigeria to be security conscious. It is also seen as the responsibility of everyone to be a neighbourhood watch. Take cognizance of your environment to keep you and your neighbour safe.

Villeworth also urges you to remain law abiding and report any perceived threat to the appropriate authorities for investigation.