Villeworth Security Services Ltd

week 47

SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY

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

Kidnap/Hostage Incidents

Toddler Kidnapped in School

A three-year-old boy, Adanu Godmercy, was, November 13, kidnapped from his school in Otukpo LGA of Benue State. It was gathered that the boy, who was last seen in his classroom during break, disappeared without the knowledge of his teacher. The father of the boy, James Adanu, lamented that the school authorities did not inform him of the development until closing time, insisting the teachers of the school knew something about his missing child.

Gunmen Kidnap Popular Musician in Yenagoa

Unidentified gunmen, November 15, invaded the venue of a wake-keep in Polako community in Yenagoa LGA of Bayelsa State and abducted a popular Ijaw musician, Pereama Freetown. A man, identified as Ebikabowei Umbu (37), was hit and killed by stray bullet as the kidnappers escaped with their victim. Freetown was on stage entertaining the crowd when the gunmen stormed the place and embarked on shooting spree to scare away the natives. The kidnappers escaped through the Polako River to an unknown destination. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Asinim Bustwat, confirmed the incident. The Marine Police, Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the JTF have swung into action in search of the victim and arrest of the suspects, he disclosed.

Gunmen Abduct 3 Women in Kaduna

Gunmen suspected to be cattle rustlers, November 13, abducted four women in Akilibu village in Kaduna State. A traditional ruler disclosed that the gunmen also killed one person, who attempted to resist the attack. The gunmen reportedly stormed the village, shooting sporadically and made away with cows as well. A source revealed that the suspected cattle rustlers have begun to change tactics from cattle rustling to abducting women and children, following on-going military operations against cattle rustlers around Abuja-Kaduna road and some parts of neighbouring Niger State.

Police Nab 4 Kidnap Suspects in Nasarawa

The Nasarawa State Commissioner of Police, Sani Mohammed, November 14, disclosed that four suspects were arrested in connection with the kidnap of a Taiwanese farmer, Mr. Chew Williams, in Sabon Gida, Kokona LGA, and the sum of N750, 000 recovered from them. He noted that the suspects are also believed to be behind the kidnap of a lecturer with University of Agriculture, Makurdi (UAM), who was rescued after a gun duel in October. One of the suspects, Isah Mohammed, confessed that six of them committed the offence and the sum of N7 million was paid to them as ransom.

Police Foil Kidnap Attempt in Abia, Arrest 3

The Police in Abia State have foiled an attempt to kidnap a businessman in Uratta in Isiala Ngwa North LGA. It was learned that a gang of kidnappers had gathered at the Uratta Primary School, Isiala Ngwa North, where they were allegedly plotting to kidnap a farm produce merchant in the area. Acting on a tip-off, police stormed the area, but the gang opened fire on sighting the policemen. Three of the gang members were injured in the ensuing shootout. The injured include a relation of their would-be victim. Items recovered from the gang include one double-barrelled shot gun with a live cartridge in the chamber, one locally-made shotgun, with an empty shell, an axe, seven empty cartridges and assorted charms, while 20 expended ammunition casings were found on the scene. Police spokesman, Ezekiel Onyeke, confirmed the incident on November 16.

Police Rescue Kidnap Victim

Men of the Rivers State Police Command, November 10, rescued a kidnap victim, Emmanuel Akujiobu, at Arizona, off Peter Odili Road, Port Harcourt. A team of policemen, promptly responding to a distress call that one Mr. Emmanuel Akujiobi was kidnapped by armed men operating in a Volkswagen Golf 3 saloon car, chased the suspected kidnappers thereby forcing them to abandon their victim, their operational vehicles and the victim’s Lexus Jeep. State Police Commissioner, Ahmad Kimo, revealed that one of suspected kidnappers also got fatally wounded during shootout with the police.

Gunmen Kidnap Mother of U-23, Coach, Siasia

Unidentified gunmen, November 16, kidnapped the 72-year-old mother of Nigeria’s U-23 coach, Samson Siasia. The septuagenarian, Ogere Siasia, was abducted in the village of Odoni in Bayelsa State by three gunmen on motorbike. Her family and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have also appealed passionately to kidnappers to release the old woman. The State Police Public Relations Officer, Asinim Butswat, confirmed the kidnap.

UNIPORT Demands Release of Kidnapped Lecturer

The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has called for the immediate and unconditional release of their colleague, Dr. Eebah Lebari, who was abducted on October 17, at the entrance to his residence in Mgbuoba area of Port Harcourt while returning from work. The gunmen were said to have trailed Lebari from his office to his residence from where he was forcefully whisked away. ASUU Chairperson, Professor Anthonia Okerengwo, November 17, condemned the act of violence and kidnap directed at lecturers.

Female Sergeant Arrested for Selling Baby

A female police sergeant, Obotie Adesuwa, has been arrested by the Lagos State Police Command after she allegedly sold a week-old baby boy that was dropped at the police station alongside his mother, Toyin, who was at that time mentally unstable. Adesuwa had received the baby at the Akinpelu Police Division, where the baby and his mother, were taken to in September. Trouble started on November 9 when Toyin showed up at the station to ask for her baby, but the sergeant allegedly denied knowing the woman, leading to an altercation during which the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) intervened. The sergeant was said to have confessed to the DPO that she collected the baby but had sold him to a family in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The baby was later rescued while the buyer was also arrested. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Joe Offor, confirmed Adesuwa’s arrest.

Ogun Police Recover Stolen Baby

The Ogun State Police Command, November 17, rescued a two-week-old baby, who was allegedly stolen in Abule Ifo in Ifo LGA by one Mrs. Ifeoluwa Yekini. The suspect was arrested. Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, disclosed that the suspect had been monitoring the mother of the baby while she was pregnant until her delivery. After the delivery, the suspect allegedly went under the pretence of felicitating with the mother. Yekini had requested to take the baby out to shop, but rather she ran away with the baby. He added that the suspect, who had been on some medications to deceive her husband that she was pregnant, took permission from her husband to visit her parents in another village, from where she put a phone call across to her husband that she had put to bed. This aroused the suspicion of her relations and neighbours, who raised the alarm. This compelled her to flee to Onipanu area in Ota where she was eventually arrested.

4 Arrested for Attempted Kidnap Attempt in Ilorin

Four suspected kidnappers have been arrested by detectives in Ondo State Police Command for attempting to abduct a 26-year-old man, Idris Sule, and demanding for N10 million as ransom. The suspects were reportedly arrested in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital. The suspects had, during a telephone conversation with the victim, demanded for N10m to halt his abduction. It was gathered that the suspects threatened to kidnap the victim if the money was not paid within a stipulated period. Police spokesman, Femi Joseph, said the suspects were currently in police detention and would soon be arraigned in court. According to him, the victim of the attempted abduction reported the telephone conversation which ensued between him and the suspects to the police. He said the suspects were arrested through the telephone line they used.

Robbery

Ex-Convicts Arrested for Traffic Robbery

Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos State, November 15, arrested three ex-convicts for alleged traffic robbery at the Oshodi area of the state. The robbery suspects identified as 21-year-old Adekunle Mustapha, 20-year-old Popoola Olumide, and 20-year-old Femi Amusa, were arrested following a tip-off from their victim, Olasunkanmi Oyelakin. The victim had alerted the police after the gang accosted him and robbed him of his valuables. Mustapha confessed that he delved into robbery because of frustration. But his alleged accomplices denied being part of the traffic robbery syndicate, adding that they were bus conductors and not traffic robbers. Police spokesman, Joe Offor, confirmed the arrest.

Robbers Batter Woman in Ughelli

A four-man robbery gang, November 13, attacked and inflicted multiple cuts on a businesswoman, Rita Mbido, during a robbery operation at the residence of the victim in Ughelli, Delta State. According to a witness, the victim and her family members were entering their residence unaware that robbery was in progress. Two members of the gang kept watch outside the compound, while others were inside. On sighting the robbers, the woman raised alarm to the infuriation of the robbers. They then attacked her with machetes, leaving her with several deep cuts.

Court Orders Remand of Man, 35, for Armed Robbery

An Ado-Ekiti Chief Magistrates’ Court, November 16, ordered the remand of 35-year-old Yusuf Abdulazeez in prison custody over alleged armed robbery. The Prosecutor, Bamikole Olasunkanmi, told the court that the accused committed the offence on November 12 at Ikole-Ekiti, while armed with cutlass and gun. He said the case file was sent to the office of the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) for legal advice. The plea of the accused was not taken and the defence counsel, Taiwo Komolafe, sought for a new date for hearing pending the outcome of the DPP’s advice. Chief Magistrate Idowu Ayenimo remanded the accused in prison custody till the outcome of the advice from DPP and adjourned the case to December 18, for further hearing.

Police Nab 4 Armed Robbery Suspects in Nasarawa

The Nasarawa State Commissioner of Police, Sani Mohammed, November 14, disclosed that four persons have been arrested in connection with armed robbery along the Makurdi-Lafia expressway. The police boss disclosed that the persons were arrested by operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). One imported revolver pistol, two locally made revolver pistols loaded with five rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition were recovered from them.

Police Kill 3 Robbers, Arrest 63 Others in Rivers

The Rivers State Police Command has said its operatives killed a total of three suspected armed robbers in parts of the state. The Commissioner of Police (CP), Musa Kimo, while parading some suspects on November 16, said a total of 30 suspected armed robbers were arrested in parts of the state within the period. One AK 47 rifle, two magazines, 50 rounds of 7.62 live ammunition, a complete set of police uniform and a bullet proof vest were recovered from the slain suspects.

Two Policemen, Others Killed as Robbers Raid Six Banks

Five persons, including two policemen, a pregnant woman and two commercial bike riders, were killed when armed robbers raided banks at the Agbara Industrial Estate area of Ogun State, on November 20. The armed robbery gang, numbering over 20, stormed the area dressed in military camouflage, at about 7am and robbed six banks in an operation that lasted over three hours. Several others sustained varying degrees of injuries. The robbers, who arrived at Agbara in two speedboats, were said to have hijacked two vehicles and rode right through Agbara market to Bank Road, which was their target. To ensure that no rescue operation would be carried out, the gang stationed some of its members at the two entry and exit routes into the road, while a police armoured personnel carrier in the area was riddled with bullets.

Robbers Attack Woman in Lagos

A woman who had gone to one of the second generation banks in Festac Town, Amuwo Odofin area of Lagos was, November 20, attacked by gunmen, who dispossessed her of the undisclosed amount withdrawn from the bank. The gunmen had trailed her from the bank, threatening to shoot if she made any noise. A policeman, who accosted the robbers, was shot. Police spokesman, Joe Offor, assured that the command was doing all within its powers to checkmate criminals in the state.

Police Arrest Mother, 2 Children, 308 Suspected Criminals in Lagos

The police in Lagos, between November 12 and 18, arrested over 300 suspected criminals in different parts of the state. The suspects include a mother and her two children alleged to be running a vicious robbery gang. Parading 20 of the suspects on November 19, the state Police Commissioner, Fatai Owoseni, said two of the suspected robbers were shot dead during exchange of gun fire with the Police. Giving a breakdown of the haul, Owoseni said 178 suspected robbers were arrested during raids on criminal hideouts, adding that on the whole, 311 were arrested.

Police Arrest Robbery Suspects in Abia

The Abia State police command, November 19, said that its men have arrested two armed robbery suspects after a gun battle. State Police Public Relations Officer, Ezekiel Onyeke, said they arrested 21-year-old Wilson Ubazuruha and Okechukwu Kalu Okore, 20, said to be members of a three-man gang of armed robbers that robbed a poultry shop at Umukaya and shot a woman on the chest. The trio was said to have successfully robbed the shop owner after firing several gun shots and were on their way out when they ran into the waiting arms of the police. The police said that a locally made revolver pistol was recovered from the suspects. According to him, the third member of the gang, identified as Star Boy, said to be the leader of the gang, escaped arrest.

Gang Incidents

Cultist Nabbed in Enugu

Operatives of the Enugu State Police command, November 15, nabbed a notorious cult kingpin identified as Okey Onee. Onee was arrested at 9th-Mile. The Suspect was said to be the mastermind of a cult clash at Ifueke, Ameke-Ngwo of 9th-Mile axis of the state, which started on October 25 leaving scores injured and one cultist dead.

Rivers Police Nab Suspected Cultists

The Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ahmad Muhammad, November 18, stated that a total of 21 suspected members of cult groups were arrested in Rivers State within the last three weeks. The arrest of some youths in Amunugboko community in Ahoada-West LGA of the state, who confessed to belong to Iceland Cult group and Deywell Cult group, have brought peace to their respective communities, according to the PPRO.

Four Notorious Cultists Arrested in Edo

Operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) arrested four notorious cultists terrorizing Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State and environs. The suspects were arrested following the directives of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, over cult related activities, which led to the murder of two students on September 18, 2015, by rival cult gangs at Supreme hotel, Ekpoma. Consequently, a team of detectives, the police swung into action after they received intelligence reports about the nefarious activities of the gang in the state, which has claimed several lives. Discrete investigations led to the arrest of the suspects at their hideout, while others, including the kingpin, escaped.

Police Parade 48 Suspected Cultists, 2 Native Doctors in Anambra

The Anambra State police command, November 16, paraded 48 suspected cultists in the state. Also paraded were two native doctors, alleged to be responsible for preparing charms for armed robbers and kidnappers. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ali Okechukwu, said the suspected cultists were arrested in various parts of the state as they were carrying out initiation of new members. Items recovered from them include guns, cartridges, machetes, large quantities of Indian hemp and other dangerous weapons. He said that the arrest of the suspects followed a tip-off by members of the public and urged the people of Anambra State to continue to support the police in its efforts to rid the state of crime.

Drugs

Court Convicts 20 Drug Suspects in Ekiti

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Ekiti State has secured the conviction of 20 persons for drug related offences in 2015. The agency had also destroyed over 2,000 cannabis farms within the year and also seized 1,562kgs of substances suspected to be hard drug from cultivators and couriers of the dangerous weed. The State Commander of the NDLEA, Suleiman Jadi, said those convicted at the Federal High Court sitting in Ado-Ekiti were nabbed at various locations across the State. He revealed that 17 suspects remained remanded in Prison custody.

N60m Worth of Indian Hemp Discovered in Kano House

The Kano State Police Command has discovered 24,000kg of Indian hemp worth N60 million in a house in Kano State. The State Commissioner of Police (CP), Muhammad Katsina, disclosed this on November 13, while presenting the seized drugs. Katsina also disclosed that three suspects had been arrested in connection with the seizure, while the principal suspect, one Yusuf Ali, remained at large. According to him, the house served as depot for dangerous drugs as marijuana, cocaine, depressants and other dangerous intoxicants. The CP further revealed that a suspect, who transports Indian hemp from Benin City to Kano, was also arrested. About 20 suspected drug dealers and consumers were also arrested at Sabon Gari Market between November 1 and 12.

NDLEA Arrests 72 Drug Suspects in Edo

The Edo State command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), November 18, disclosed that it had arrested 72 suspects for various drug related offences in the state. State Commander of the NDLEA, Buba Wakawa, said that the suspects were nabbed at different spots across the state between September and November. He also disclosed that the agency recovered 13, 498.6 kilogrammes of assorted illicit drugs, six vehicles and three motorbikes from the suspects. He disclosed that Cannabis Sativa was the most prevalent of the seized drugs.

Cobbler Jailed 18 Months Indian hemp peddling

A Federal High Court in Lagos, November 19, sentenced a 25-year-old cobbler, Rasheed Lawal, to 18 months imprisonment, over drug peddling.  Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke sentenced the convict after he pleaded guilty to a charge of drug trafficking preferred against him by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The prosecutor, Jeremiah Aernan, had told the court that the accused committed the offence on September 19. He said that Lawal was arrested at Ajiran Community in Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos State with about 300 grammes of Cannabis Sativa. He said the accused was reported to be a major dealer of the narcotic substance in the area.

Maritime

Terrorism

Military Pushes into Sambisa Forest

Determined to meet the December deadline to crush terrorist group Boko Haram, the military operations in the North-east is now in a final push as it heads for Sambisa Forest, the stronghold of the terrorist sect. The Army, November 14, revealed that the troops were moving for the last known den of the insurgents. The Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, Maj. Gen. Yusha'u Abubakar, revealed that additional Boko Haram terrorists’ enclaves at Angwan Fulani Rugo, Angwan Fulani Kardewa, Dure Fadagwe, Christian, Fadagwe Muni and Balazala were destroyed. He added that the troops recorded victory at Gudumbali on November 12 as they engaged the insurgents in crossfire and successfully liberated the town, killing 10 insurgents. He said during the operation large quantum of weapons and ammunition of various types were recovered.

Over 30 Killed, 80 Injured in Yola Bomb Blast

Over 30 persons were, November 17, killed when a bomb blast ripped through packed crowds in Yola, Adamawa State. The explosion happened in the Jambutu area of the state capital. The coordinator for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Yola, Sa’ad Bello, confirmed over the death of about 32 persons and several injured. The blast bore all the hallmarks of Boko Haram, which has previously attacked Yola with suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices in recent months. The blast was the first in Nigeria in November, indicating the army’s strategy to cut off the Islamists’ supply lines and target their camps was paying off.

Military Debunks Alleged Planned Terrorist Attack in South West

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has debunked recent reports by some sections of the media claiming impending attacks by Boko Haram terrorists in some south- western states of the country. The Director of Defence Information (DDI), Col. Rabe Abubakar, November 14, debunked the story as baseless and lacking substance. He noted that the military and other security agencies have made tremendous successes in degrading and decimating the terrorists who he said, are now in disarray having lost their centre of gravity, camps and their source of logistics.

Military Nabs another Wanted Boko Haram Kingpin

The Nigerian military has nabbed another Boko Haram kingpin following the release of a list containing names and photographs of 100 Boko Haram suspects. The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, who confirmed the arrest of Danladi Abdullahi, at Maduganari area of Maiduguri metropolis on November 13, said that the arrest was made possible through the assistance of the Department of State Services (DSS). The suspect is number 26 on the list of the declared suspected Boko Haram terrorists issued by the Nigerian Army in October.

Army Kills 7 Boko Haram Members in Gwoza

At least 7 Boko Haram terrorists were killed and several others arrested on after a heavy gun battle between the insurgents and troops of the Nigeria army in Gwoza, Borno state on November 13, officials said. The terrorists had attacked soldiers in Gwoza town, but were effectively repelled by soldiers on ground, according to the army spokesman, Colonel Tukur Gusau. Colonel Gusau disclosed items recovered from the terrorists to include one Toyota Hilux vehicle, 11 AK-47 rifles, 1 Shilka Gun, 1 Rocket Propelled Grenade Tube, 6 Hand Grenades and several rounds of Shilka Gun and Machine Gun ammunitions.

Eight Deadly Boko Haram Members on the Loose in Maiduguri -Army

The Nigerian Army, November 16, revealed that eight deadly Boko Haram terrorists were on the prowl in Maiduguri, Borno State, after one of them was arrested. Media Coordinator of Operation Lafiya Dole, Colonel Tukur Gusau, disclosed one of the nine suspects was arrested with assault rifles and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The arrested suspect, John Trankil, had confessed that nine of them were sneaked into Maiduguri armed with AK 47 assault rifle each and a Hilux vehicle laden with 20 Improvised Explosive Devices meant to be detonated at some selected targets in the city. The Theatre Commander operation Lafiya Dole, Major General Yusha’u Mahmood Abubakar, commended the efforts of the troops and renewed the call on the public to be more vigilant and security conscious particularly at public places and large gatherings.

Troops Destroy More Boko Haram Camps, IEDs

The Media Coordinator of the military operation prosecuting the war against terrorism in the north-east, Operation Lafiya Dole, Colonel Tukur Gusau, has revealed that troops of 21 Brigade of the Nigerian army, while on offensive operations on Boko Haram locations, with the support from the Air Force, discovered and destroyed the terrorists’ IED and rocket making factory along Bama-Gonin Kurmi on the outskirts of Bama town in Borno State. He said items recovered included gas cylinders, welding machine, pipes and poles, locally made rocket shells, large quantity of assorted chemicals, IEDs and various technical and laboratory equipment stolen from schools.

Bomb Blasts Kills 18, Injure 50 in Kano

Two bombs, November 18, ripped through a phone market in Taruni LGA of Kano State, killing 18 persons and injuring over 50. The explosions occurred when two female suicide bombers detonated bombs within and outside the market. Eyewitnesses said the first explosion occurred at the first gate of the market close to a generator and the second exploded at the second gate, which is the main entrance of the market. The state Police Commissioner, Alhaji Muhammad Katsina, confirmed the death toll, which included the suicide bombers. According to him, the suicide bombers were brought into the market by a Sharon vehicle. He added that detectives were working hard to arrest other female bombers. A team of the joint military task force was deployed in the area after the blasts and the market sealed off.

Military Destroys Boko Haram Rockets

The Nigerian Army has uncovered and destroyed rockets fabricated by the Boko Haram terrorists. The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, who confirmed this on November 18, said the feat was achieved by the troops of 111 Special Forces Battalion, 7 Division Garrison Nigerian Army. Usman noted that the troops during a special raid operation carried out on November 17 at Delwa general area, discovered and knocked out Boko Haram terrorists’ rocket factory at Jamrari, Borno State.

Army, Police Apprehend 2 Suspected Boko Haram Kingpins

The troops of 101 Task Force Battalion, 7 Division Garrison, Maiduguri, November 18, arrested another wanted Boko Haram leader. The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, said that the suspect, who gave his name as Abubakar Sadiq, works as night watchman to one Muhammad Daggash. He revealed that a closer look at him showed that he was suspect number 28 among the suspected Boko Haram terrorists that were declared wanted by the Nigerian Army. Similarly, the Police arrested a suspected Boko Haram kingpin, Mohammed Usman, at Abuja Talakawa Ward of Maiduguri on November 17. The suspect who matches the photograph of Suspect Number 40 on the poster containing the photographs of the 100 wanted suspected Boko Haram terrorists, was arrested after painstaking effort and tracking by the police.

Political/Government Agencies

Murder/Assassinations

Wife Escapes as Man Slaughters 4 Own Children, Attempts Suicide

A 53-year-old man, November 18, killed four of his own children – three boys and a girl, aged 8, 6, 4 and 2. His wife was said to have escaped the massacre and reported the incident to the police. The suspect, who was identified as Mallam Saleh Magaji, had also tried to kill himself by slitting his own throat. The Kaduna State police spokesman, Abubakar Zubairu, confirmed the incident. Zubairu disclosed that the wife had reported to the police, and when police got to the house, they met the house locked. When they forced the door open, they saw the four dead bodies of the children. The man had scrolled something against the wall within the room, alleging that his wife had tried to poison him, and so he decided to kill all members of the family, including himself. The police spokesman said that the police command had launched an investigation into the matter.

Man on the Run after Killing Brother

A man, Ngwoke Chukwudi, November 13, is on the run after killing his younger brother, Ngwu Sunday, in Umuokara, Orba in Udenu LGA of Enugu State. The suspect had engaged his younger brother in a fight, during which he hit the deceased with a metal object. He was quickly rushed to a nearby hospital, but efforts made to revive him proved abortive. The suspect took to his heals and fled after the incident. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ebere Amaraizu, confirmed the incident, explaining that the deceased died as a result of injuries sustained on his head during the fight. The state command of the Police has commenced full scale investigations into the incident, with a view to arresting the suspect, who is on the run.

Pirates Attack Fishing Trawlers, Kill 2, Abduct 3

Suspected sea pirates attacked two fishing trawler along Bonny Anchorages in Rivers State, leaving two sailors dead. The pirate reportedly abducted three others. Chairman, Fishing Zone of Nigerian Merchant Navy Officers and Water Transport Senior Staff Association, Captain Isaac Esiekpe, November 14, confirmed the recent attack by sea pirates, adding that two sailors were seriously injured and were hospitalized.

4 Killed as Traders, Officials Clash in Aba

Four persons, November 14, died in Aba, Abia State, when street traders at New Market clashed with officials of Aba Urban Renewal Committee over the order to relocate to Good Morning Market. Aba Urban Renewal Committee, headed by the Special Adviser to the Governor, Solomon Ogunji, was set up by Abia State government to demolish structures built on roads, drainage channels and pedestrian walk ways in the city. The committee had stormed the Highlife area of the city to enforce the ban on street trading, but was resisted by the street traders. Machetes and other dangerous weapons were freely used during the clash. Spokesman of Abia State Police Command, Ezekiel Onyeke, said that the police stepped in to maintain law and order.

FRSC Officer Kills Student over N100 Bribe

Students of Kogi State University, Anyigba took-over the Ankpa-Anyigba road to protest the alleged killing of a final year student of the university by an officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). Eyewitness revealed that the student was allegedly beaten to death for his failure to bribe the officer. Trouble started when the officer stopped the student and after interrogation, demanded for a bribe of 100 naira. The late student was said to have refused to part with the sum, leading to a heated argument, during which the officer attacked and killed the student. Thousands of students besieged the Streets and later stormed the Road Safety Office in the town. The students, November 14, threatened to fight on until justice was done.

4 Arrested in Bauchi for Burying Abortion Victim

The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested and charged four persons to court for conspiring to bury one Rose Luka (25) after a failed abortion. The suspects, Hillary Joseph (31), Nasiru Haruna (25), Hamisu Yashi (30), Mudasshiru Bako (30), all male, conspired and buried Luka, who died as a result of complications arising from an abortion that went fatally wrong. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Haruna Mohammed, November 14, confirmed that Police detectives arrested the suspects following intelligence report. The PPRO stated that preliminary investigation revealed that the victim died as a result of complications from a failed abortion. The corpse was exhumed for forensic investigations. All the four Suspects have been charged to court.

Police Arrest Killers of Undergraduate

The Imo State Police Command has arrested a three-man gang that murdered 24-year-old student of Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Imo State, Innocent Ndukwe. The Commissioner of Police (CP), Taiwo Lakanu, who paraded the suspects, including the victim’s security guard, on November 18, disclosed that the hoodlums also stole the victim’s vehicle, television sets, and some personal effects. The assailants, who tried to escape the eagle-eyed operatives, were apprehended along West End-Old Nekede Road, Owerri. According to Lakanu, the late Ndukwe was found in a pool of his own blood in a toilet in his residence. Lakanu appealed to members of the public to be careful in choosing the people they employed as security guards and domestic staff.

Trigger Happy Cops Arrested after Killing Man in Delta

Two police officers, November 4, shot and killed a 28-year-old truck assistant, Amos Nsikak, in Warri, Delta State. The trigger happy cops, shot sporadically and attempted to flee after the incident, but alert members of a vigilance group in the area apprehended and handed them over to the police. Nsikak had gone to pick his cloth hanging on a line outside, when he was attacked by the two Police corporals, who allegedly shot him at point blank range with their AK-47 rifles. It was revealed that the police team investigating the matter had recommended dismissal for both suspects before their court trial.

Ritualists Kill Commercial Bike Rider in Lagos

Suspected ritualists in Ajeromi/Ifelodun LGA of Lagos State, November 14, killed a commercial motorcycle operator, plucking off his eyes. The ritualists also shaved his hair and were cutting off his penis before they fled after they saw people approaching. The victim, Daniel Afan (28), was said to have carried two passengers, who called him up around 4.35am. The deceased’s brother, Alex, disclosed that the two men knocked at the room of Daniel and persuaded him to carry them to Alaba-Oro, along Lagos-Badagry expressway that fateful day. He said other commercial bike riders, who arrived at the scene, saw his identity card as a registered bike rider at Otto-Woff, in Ajeguinle area. They took the victim to Ajegunle general hospital, where he died.

DSS Arraigns Killer of Retired Major in Bayelsa

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned a man, Forcebray Ebiene (25), over his alleged role in the kidnap and murder of Benson Ayerite Adigio-Eseni, a retired major. The suspect was arraigned before Justice E.T. Okara of the High Court sitting in Yenagoa on a two-count charge of conspiracy and kidnapping of the late Major Adigioo-Eseni. The suspect, who was arraigned without a defence counsel, was remanded in prison custody. Justice Okara adjourned the case till December 8, 2015 to enable the suspect to get a defence counsel. Ebiene, who confessed to the crime, was arrested at Ahoada in Rivers State, where he had gone to access his account, by DSS operatives who had been on his trail.

Rape

Man, 30, Rapes 11-Year-Old Girl in Toilet

The Police in Lagos have arraigned a 30-year-old man, Peter Ekom, before a Magistrate’s Court sitting in Ikeja for allegedly raping an 11-year-old girl. The defendant was docked before Magistrate B. O. Osunsanmi over the offence allegedly committed on November 3. According to Kingsley Eboh, the victim’s uncle, the suspect raped the victim when she went to urinate in the public toilet and warned her not to tell anybody. After the rape, the girl quickly ran to her aunt, with her dress rough, to report the incident. The girl reported that the accused walked up to her, gripped her, removed her pant, closed her mouth with his hand and forcefully penetrated. She said he left her when he heard a voice. The prosecutor, Inspector Simeon Imhonwa, applied for the remand of the suspect. The matter was adjourned till November 13, 2016.

Man Remanded in Prison for Defiling 15-Year-Old Cousin

An Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court, November 18, remanded an unemployed man, Asimiu Adebayo (25), in Prison custody for allegedly defiling his 15-year-old cousin. Adebayo, who lives with the father of the victim at the Moricas Area of Agege, Lagos, is facing a charge of defilement. The prosecutor, Sergeant Jimah Iseghede, told the court that the offence was committed on November 12 at the accused’s residence. Iseghede said one of the neighbours, who heard the screaming of the girl, peeped through the window and saw the accused raping the girl. She then alerted the other tenants and the accused was apprehended. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge. The Chief Magistrate, Tajudeen Elias, adjourned the case till November 25, for ruling on his bail application.

Man Nabbed for Raping 2-Year-Old Girl

A 25-year-old man, Yusuf Suleiman, has been arrested by the Niger State Police Command for allegedly raping a two-year-old girl in Minna. The suspect was, November 17, paraded by the Police Public Relations Officer, Bala Elkana. The police spokesman stated that Suleiman was caught having canal knowledge of the minor around their residence after he lured her to a corner. Elkana stated that the suspect would be charged to court. He advised parents to be vigilant and monitor the movements of their children in order to avoid their children from being victims of rape.

Suspects Arraigned in Kano for Sexual Violation of Minors

A middle aged man, Nasiru Ussaini, was on November 17, arraigned before a Kano magistrate court for sexual violation of 10 minors.  The arraignment of the suspect coincided with appearance of 57 others accused of sexual violence and related offences remanded in prison custody by the presiding judge, Idris Muhammad.  A man identified as Armaya’u Hamza 38, among the 57 suspects was accused of violating his biological son, while another 60 years old Ibrahim Abdullahi of Danbazau quarter in the ancient city of Kano was also alleged to have abused a five-year-old girl. However, the State Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Musa Katsina, disclosed that 59 victims, ages 3 to 10, have been secured and are now undergoing post trauma counselling. Katsina also revealed that two suspects, Haladu Hassan and Umar Usman raped their victims and infected them with HIV.

Man Jailed 15 Years for Raping 9-Year-Old

A Jigawa State High Court has sentenced 25-year-old man, Sani Isa, to 15 years imprisonment for rape. Justice Ubali Ahmad Taura said the accused admitted committing the offence when he raped a 9-year-old girl in 2014. Five witnesses, who testified in court, confirmed that Sani Dogo raped the under-aged girl. One of the family members of the defiled girl called on parents of under-aged and teenage rape victims in the state to take their grievances to a court of law to seek for justice and reduce cases of rape in the state.

Others

Borno Police Arrest 101 Criminal Suspects

The Borno State Police Command, November 15, said that it had arrested 101 criminals in the state. Police Spokesman, Isuku Victor, who made the disclosure in Maiduguri, said that the arrests were the outcome of intensive patrols by the command to enhance policing in the state. He added that the intensive patrols would through the yuletide. He noted that due to ongoing military offensive against terrorists in their strongholds, criminals had started relocating, seeking new abodes around the state. He, however, assured that the Command was ready to ensure that the state remained crime free.He said that the suspects were nabbed during raids at criminal hideouts and black spots.

Septuagenarian, Others Arrested for Theft, Vandalism

A 75-year-old man, Hassan Usman, has been arrested for allegedly tampering with a transformer in the Ikosi, Ketu area of Lagos State. Usman had allegedly taken advantage of power interruption in the area on October 28 and tampered with a transformer. He was reportedly caught in the process. Two other suspects –Uzor Ayanwu and Peter Estamen– were also paraded alongside the septuagenarian on November 13 by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for allegedly stealing two prepaid meters. The NSCDC commandant in the state, Gabriel Abafi, confirmed the arrests.

2 Jailed for Cable Vandalism

Two men, Ndubuisi Ogbonna (18) and Gabriel Chinedu (21), were, November 16, sentenced to 10 years imprisonment by a Federal High Court sitting in Abakaliki for vandalizing electric cables belonging to the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC). The presiding Judge, Justice Maureen Oyetenu, said while Chinedu is to serve six years jail term with hard labour, Ogbonna will serve four years. The duo was arrested on 19th October this year in Afikpo, where they committed the crime. Prosecution officer told the court that the convicts were caught cutting the electricity cables. Justice Oyetenu said the court found the accused guilty and convicted them accordingly. She warned them against indulging in such crime. She ordered that the electricity cables vandalized by the accused be returned to the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company office.

Army, Pipeline Vandals in Bun Battle

Soldiers of the Ojo Cantonment of the Nigerian Army, November 16, stormed the hideout of a notorious pipeline vandalism syndicate operating behind the canal at the 7th Avenue area of FESTAC Town, engaging the vandals in a shoot-out. The army, led by the Commanding Officer, Ojo Cantonment, Lieutenant Colonel Are, raided the hideout of the pipeline vandals, resulting in an exchange of gunfire. It was gathered that the operation was carried out after a meeting of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Major General Isidore Edet, with all units under the division on the army’s reviewed rules of engagement on internal security operations. Edet had said that it was inexcusable for troops to stand aside and watch the security situation deteriorate.

Police Arrest 3 Suspected Pipeline Vandals in Lagos

The Police in Lagos State, November 14, arrested three vandals that were siphoning petroleum products from Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) pipeline in the creeks of Amuwo Odofin area of the state. State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, disclosed that the suspects were arrested after a tip-off. Owoseni added that the police recovered a Mack tanker, 7,500 litres of petroleum products, a pumping machine and one long black hose from the suspects.

Review/Analysis

Kidnap/hostage incidents continued on the rise as gunmen took hostages across the country. It is, however, cheering that some suspects were apprehended, while security agents, through water tight intelligence efforts, foiled a number of kidnap attempts. Hostages were rescued with the help of security agents, who raided their hideouts. Suspected child traffickers were also arrested as a police woman, who sold a baby kept in police care, was equally nabbed and detained.

Murder/assassination remained high on the crime index. The Police, maintaining its resolve to keep the society safe, arrested nearly all the suspects. Most have been charged to court for their various roles in the killing of their victims. This was witnessed across the country.

Terrorism and related activities shot up as the military onslaught continues. Terrorists’ strong holds were taken down through coordinated raids by the unrelenting troops of the Nigerian military. In their continued onslaught, Improvised Explosive Devices and rockets, and IED factories were also cleared and destroyed by the military. Notable in the activities of the military were the arrests of kingpins that have been on the wanted list. It is, however, heart breaking that despite the unrelenting military battle, the terrorists still succeeded in carrying out their wicked activities resulting in mass casualties. The north-east remains the endemic region.

While Robbery incidents were also high, the authorities made good arrests of suspects, killing some in gun battles. The law also caught up with suspects, as some received various jail terms for armed robbery. The south-west and south-east regions were mostly affected.

Rape incidents, especially of minors, were recorded across the country. While suspects were arrested, the prevalence remains worrisome as young girls were defiled by trusted persons.

Gang and Drug related crimes were low on record. This is the result of painstaking raids by police and the NDLEA respectively. These took place in various parts of the country, and suspects were arrested, while major drug rings were broken.
Parents are urged to be especially protective of their children against predators in the form of rapist and kidnappers. This warning becomes very expedient as we approach the yuletide.
We are charged to be security conscious. The security agencies require our cooperation to effectively curb the crime rate in the society. Report any perceived threat to the appropriate authorities for investigation