Weekly Security Report Weekly Report week 7 week 7
SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY
S/N | CATEGORY | MAJOR INCIDENTS |
| 1 | Kidnap/Hostage | 7 |
| 2 | Robbery | 8 |
| 3 | Gang | 3 |
| 4 | Drugs | 1 |
| 5 | Militancy/Maritime Incidents | 5 |
| 6 | Terrorism | 5 |
| 7 | Political/Government Agencies |
|
| 8 | Murder/Assassinations | 9 |
| 9 | Rape Incidents | 2 |
| 10 | Others | 7 |
|
| Review/Analysis | |
Kidnap/Hostage Incidents
Police Arrest 6 Suspected Kidnappers in Bauchi, Rescue Abducted Boys
The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested six suspected kidnappers in Bauchi and rescued two teenagers abducted by the hoodlums. Police Public Relations Officer, Haruna Mohammed, February 8, said the arrest was made when men of the State Anti-Kidnapping unit raided the hideouts of the criminals in Bauchi/Ganjuwa LGAs of the state. According to him, police detectives attached to the State Anti-Kidnapping unit led by ASP Mustapha Mohammed raided various hideouts of armed groups in Kibni, Mada and Kajut forests all in Bauchi/Ganjuwa LGA and arrested six suspected kidnappers. Discreet investigations further led to the rescue of the 2 kidnapped boys, aged 15 years and 12 years, from the hideout.
Rivers Police Rescue Victims, Apprehend Kidnappers
The Rivers State Police Command, February 6, rescued two kidnap victims -Austin Ajah and Winifred Frank- few hours after they were kidnapped near Siat Palm farm in Ikwerre LGA of the state. The duo was returning from Owerri to Port Harcourt when they were taken. A patriotic citizen, who witnessed the incident, quickly informed the police. The police in a quick investigation, got information that the victims were locked up in the house of one Onyekachi Okpara, who is the leader gang in Omerelu town. The police quickly mobilised and stormed the house at about 1:15am, rescued the victims and arrested one Kingsley Bassey (23), who was guarding the victims. A big locally made revolver pistol with four live cartridges was recovered from him. Bassey’s arrest led to the subsequent arrest of his six other suspects.
Kidnapped Business Man Released after Payment of Ransom
A businessman, Elias Ukachukwu, who was kidnapped in November 2015 in the Festac area of Lagos State, has been released after the alleged payment of $2million reportedly demanded as ransom by the kidnappers. It was gathered that Ukachukwu’s kidnappers demanded an additional $1 million from his family after receiving an initial $1 million. Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, confirmed that Ukachukwu was released on February 3. She, however, did not confirm if any ransom was paid for his release. Residents of Festac Town and environ in Amuwo Odofin Area of Lagos State are currently living in fear, following the increasing spate of kidnappings within the area.
8 Suspected Child Traffickers Apprehended
The Abia State Police Command has arrested four persons suspected to be members of a child trafficking syndicate. Also arrested were four suspected kidnappers, who have been terrorizing the residents of Aba and environs. It was gathered that the suspected traffickers, were arrested following a tip-off by one of their victims, who was lured to Umuahia by one of the suspects. Spokesman of Abia State Police Command, Ezekiel Onyeke, disclosed that one of the suspects, Chidubem Nwachukwu met a victim at a motor park in Aba with her two children begging for alms and promised to marry her and take care of her children, aged two years and six months, respectively. The victim later followed Nwachukwu to Umuahia where he took her to a beauty salon in Umuahia to fix her hair, but deceived her and stole her children who were later rescued at Umudem, Ikeduru council area of Imo State.
Kidnapped Dickson Aide Regains Freedom
The Special Adviser on Aviation to Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State, Captain Henry Ungbuku, February 6, regained his freedom six days after he was abducted around his church at Iwofe in the Obio/Akpor LGA of Rivers State. A family source disclosed that Ungbuku was dropped off by his abductor on the Ada George Road in the Obio/Akpor LGA. Ungbuku’s captors were also said to have put a call across to the family of their victim, telling them to pick up Ungbuku on Ada George Road. The Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmad Muhammad, confirmed the release of the Dickson’s aide.
13-Year-Old Goes One Day after Arriving Lagos
A 13-year-old boy, Noah Oyekanmi, who went missing since January 12, is yet to be found. The boy, who was brought from Edo State to the Isheri, Olowora area of Lagos State to stay with his elder brothers on January 11, went missing the following day after he went to urinate. The matter was said to have been reported at the Isheri Police Division. It was learnt that Noah had told other children in their apartment that he was going to urinate outside. However, after some minutes, and the children did not see Noah they alerted the adults in the house. His brother, Winner, who is a student of a polytechnic in Edo State, said the family had searched for the boy without success, adding that Noah was the last child of the family.
Mother of Taraba Deputy Governor Regains Freedom from Kidnappers
The mother of the Taraba State Deputy Governor, Hajia Beli Manu, has been freed by her abductors less than 24 hours after her abduction. Hajia Manu was abducted by unknown gunmen on February 8 from her residence at Mutum Biyu, Gassol LGA in the presence of her family members. A neighbour, who had tried to intervene, was shot dead. The abductors had reportedly demanded for N300 million as ransom. Police Public Relations Officer, Joseph Kwaji, confirmed that she was released due to the pressure mounted by the state police command. He further disclosed that the command was already closing-in on the kidnappers before her release as he maintained that the command would not relent until they were brought to book.
Robbery
Police Rescue Robbers from Angry Mob
Two suspected robbers, February 9, escaped being lynched by an angry mob in Owerri Imo state following the quick intervention of policemen. The robbery suspects were on the verge of being set ablaze by the mob, when the Police arrived and took them away for treatment and interrogation. The hoodlums were reported to have trailed and attacked a woman, who had just made some financial transactions at a bank. They reportedly snatched her handbag and sped off on their motorcycle. But sympathizers quickly went in pursuit of the fleeing hoodlums and nabbed them at the St. John’s Lab Junction, where they were blocked by a commercial tricycle operator and the angry mob attacked them when they fell into the gutter.
Police Arrest Robbery Suspects in Port Harcourt
Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command, February 2, arrested four suspected armed robbers, including a 38-year-old female, operating within Port Harcourt and its environs. Security operatives had stormed the hideout of the suspected robbers in Port Harcourt, where they apprehended them. It was gathered that the robbers were taken unaware as the team of policemen raided their hideout in the wee hours of the day. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmad Muhammad, who confirmed the arrest of the hoodlums, said a patriotic Nigerian had informed the police about a strange movement at Ibadan Waterfront. Muhammad disclosed that five AK-47 rifles, six magazines and 120 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, were recovered from the armed robbers. He added that two Toyota Camry vehicles were also recovered. According to him, the four suspects were undergoing interrogations with a view to fishing out other members of the gang.
Motorist Foils Robbery Attempt in Sapele
A motorist, Sunday Ogba, in Sapele, Delta State, February 5, foiled an armed robbery attempt. It was learnt that Ogba, who had gone to a bank for a transaction, heard a cry from a victim being robbed by one John Obareki, and two others on a motorcycle. It was gathered that Ogba on seeing what was happening quickly re-entered his car and gave the robbers a hot chase and finally caught up with them along Sapele/Warri road where he reportedly knocked them down with his car. It was gathered that one of the suspects escaped while the other two were caught with broken legs and handed over to the police. Police Public Relations Officer, Celestina Kalu, who confirmed the incident, said the suspects were currently helping the police in further investigation, while the bag containing the N250,000 was recovered.
Burglar Arrested with Head Stuck between Bars after Operation
Nemesis caught up with a suspected burglar after his head got stuck between burglar proof bars on February 10. The suspect had broken into a shop at plaza in Jos, Plateau State and was escaping with his loot when he got trapped. It was learnt that the 32-year-old suspect, Solomon Clement, had entered the shop through the roof in the night. He was said to have stolen seven pieces of suits, two blankets, 13 pairs of shoes and three pieces of bed sheets after which he tried to escape with the loots through the window. He had forced his body out of the window but his head got trapped between the burglar proof bars, where he stayed until morning.
Police Arrest Notorious Burglar in Lagos
Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Lagos State Police Command, February 6, arrested a notorious burglar, Joseph David (20). David was arrested after he had successfully burgled two flats in Gbajobi Street, Balogun, Ikeja, where he stole three laptops and five mobile phones. David was on his way to his hotel room, where he had been lodging for over a month when he was intercepted by the RRS operatives. Investigations by the RRS revealed that there had been repeated cases of houses burgling around Gbajobi Close. The suspect made a confessional statement to the police. The police also arrested his receiver, Benjamin Odinaka (18). Odinaka also made confessional statements. Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, assured that the Lagos State Police Command would continue to work ceaselessly to ensure the successes recorded so far in the area of security is consolidated and improved upon.
Police Nab Robber for Terrorising Truck, Lorry Drivers
The Lagos State police command, February 10, disclosed that it arrested a member of a gang that terrorizes truck and lorry drivers in the state. The police said Bayo Folayemi (27), was arrested by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) at Mile Two-Apapa expressway, after his gang had robbed their victim. The victim, Chukwudi Odum, said that his trailer, which was carrying containers, broke down on the highway, and in the course of repairing it, the hoodlums came to demand for money. He said when he noticed that his wallet had been stolen, he held tight on to the suspect, who was still dragging him by his trousers, and then he shouted for help. He added that the RRS policemen who were on patrol duty, arrived at the scene and arrested the suspect.
Suspected Car Thief Impersonates Military Official
The Abia State Police Command has arrested a 24-year-old man, Ahanna Ogwezi, who impersonates military personnel to steal exotic cars from car stands. Ogwezi, who dresses in full military uniform with the rank of a lieutenant, also operates with the names Danjuma Aliyu when in Abia State and Thompson Adedeji when in Imo State. A Lincoln Navigator, Toyota Avalon and Toyota Camry were recovered from him. Police Public Relations Officer, Ezekiel Onyeke, disclosed that luck ran out on the suspect when detectives traced a stolen vehicle to a buyer at Onitsha, Anambra State, where the buyer who claimed to be related to the suspect, allegedly bought the car having agreed to pay N2.8 million out of which he had paid N700,000.
Suspects Pose as Traffic Officials, Tow Stolen Vehicle
A suspected car thief, who posed with three others as traffic officials, has been arrested by the Lagos State Police Command. The suspect, John Godwin, was apprehended on February 8 while he and three others, still at large, towed a Toyota Camry in the Isheri-Oshun area of the state. According to the police, the syndicate, which was led by one Ndubuisi, a spare parts seller, was taking the stolen vehicle to Mile 2, before it was intercepted. The owner of the car, Joseph Inaboya, said the Camry was parked in front of his house, adding that he was not aware when the syndicate came to tow it away.
Gang Incidents
Cultists Attack Pastor, 2 Others in Delta
Persons believed to be cultists, operating in Ebedei Camp, behind Delta State University, Asaba-Awai Campus, February 4, unleashed terror on a 36-year-old pastor and two others in the area before carting away their valuables. It was reliably gathered that the hoodlums arrived with cutlasses and guns. Investigation revealed that Ebedei camp has been under siege of miscreants, especially cultists and armed robbers, who attack unsuspecting visitors at gun point. The police are currently on a manhunt for the hoodlums. Meanwhile, Police Detectives in the state have arrested a student of University over illegal possession of fire arms. Police Public Relations Officer, Celestina Kalu, disclosed that detectives attached to Kwale Division in conjunction with a vigilante group, arrested a 25-year-old Business Administration student of DELSU, Abraka. The suspect was in possession of a cut to size single barrel gun concealed in a tricycle.
Task Force Official Attacked by Hoodlums in Oshodi
Rampaging commercial bus drivers and motor park touts, February 8, attacked officials of the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Task Force, who stormed Oshodi market to impound buses obstructing other motorists plying the route. In the process, one of the officials, Uzan Rildwan, was stabbed in the head, with two of his fingers chopped off with a knife. The Lagos State Task Force Public Affairs Officer, Adebayo Taofeek, confirmed the attack, stating that the injured official was still receiving treatment at the Ikeja General Hospital. He disclosed that earlier, 24 commercial and private vehicles drivers, who contravened traffic laws, were arrested and made to pay fines, with 297 motorcycles impounded.
Police Arrest Suspected Cultists
The Cross River State Commissioner of Police, Henry Fadairo, February 10, announced the arrest of 14 suspected cult members. Fadairo disclosed that the suspects were arrested on January 29 after the police got a tip-off from concerned residents that members of a notorious cult called Skylo were meeting in a primary school on Howell Street. The police immediately swung into action and arrested 14 members of the cult. One of them, a wanted criminal in connection with a murder case, was also arrested. The commissioner also stated that on January 18, the command recovered two locally-made pistols, six cartridges, four handsets and a driving licence from suspected criminals.
Drugs
NDLEA Discovers Cocaine in Drug Packs
The Bayelsa State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it seized 4.9 grammes of cocaine concealed in drug packs. The agency stated that the cocaine was part of 7.15kilogrammes of different narcotic drugs it seized from traffickers. It added that its operatives arrested 14 suspected drug traffickers in different parts of Yenagoa and its surrounding communities. The agency’s spokesman, Ikenna Osakwe, February 11, said the seizure and arrests were made in January, 2016. Osakwe said the cocaine was concealed inside some packs of sealed pharmaceutical products. He said the hidden cocaine was discovered by operatives on a motorised patrol on the East-West Road, while being ferried to Port Harcourt, Rivers State, in a branded commercial bus. The suspects have been arrested and the matter is under investigation.
Militancy/Maritime
Pipeline Vandals Kill 3 Naval Personnel in Arepo
Suspected pipeline vandals, February 5, carried out an attack on operatives of the anti-pipeline vandalism Joint Task Force (JTF) at Arepo area of Ogun State, killing five naval personnel. The JTF, comprising the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army and the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), had launched series of raids on the pipeline vandalism syndicate at the Wawa area of Arepo, disrupting their activities. The JTF had on February 3, launched a similar raid based on a tip off that vandals had caused a pipeline explosion while siphoning fuel. The operatives interrupted the vandals as they were loading a tanker as well as several kegs, with the siphoned products. The vandals had engaged the operatives in a gun duel but were overpowered by the superior fire power of the operatives. As a result of the exchange of gunfire, the tanker and other stolen products allegedly caught fire, while some of the vandals who survived were said to have retreated, and later regrouped to ambush and kill some operatives.
Navy Foils Hijack of Merchant Ship
The Nigerian Navy has foiled an attempt by suspected sea pirates to hijack and abduct 25 foreign nationals aboard a Maersk merchant ship carrying general cargo to Nigeria. Captain Olusegun Soyemi, the Executive Officer of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, said that the vessel berthed safely with the crew members unharmed. According to him, Safmarine Kuramo, a Maersk merchant ship registered in Singapore, was transporting general cargo from Port-Noire, Congo, to Onne Sea Port in Rivers State when it was attacked on January 5 by sea pirates about 60 nautical miles off the coast of Bonny Island Fairway Buoy. The navy immediately dispatched a warship (NNS Centenary) and attack gunboats to rescue the situation. The sea pirates, on sighting advancing naval troops, fled the scene for fear of being arrested by our operatives.
Court Orders Arrest of Escaped Russians over Oil Bunkering
Three Russians, who are among the 14 foreigners accused of dealing in crude oil without license, have reportedly jumped bail. Justice Ibrahim Buba of the Federal High Court in Lagos, February 8, issued a bench warrant for their arrest and also revoked the bail granted the other accused persons. The judge ordered Zenith Bank Plc, which provided a bank guarantee for the bail granted the accused persons for N50million each, to appear to show cause why the sum will not be forfeited. Among the accused are Russians, Ukrainians, Japanese and English, namely Artur Pakhladzhian, Sergo Abbgarian, Vasily Shkundich, Vitaliy Bilours, Hlarion Regipor, Laguta Oleksiy, Cadavis Gerarado, Kretov Andry, Badurian Benjamin, Chepikov Olksan, Naranjo Antero, Patro Christian, Alcayde Joel and Caratiquit Beyan. The EFCC had charged them after they were arrested by the Navy on March 27, 2015 when they intercepted their vessel, MT Anukpet Emerald. The vessel was laden with crude oil estimated at 1,738.087 metric tons. Defence counsel, Babajide Koku, told the court that the fourth, sixth and 11th defendants could not be found.
16 Suspected Vandals Killed in Explosion
No fewer than 16 suspected pipeline vandals have been reportedly killed in an explosion in the Arepo area of Ogun State on February 10. The vandals had attacked men of the Joint Task Force, when the attack boomeranged and killed the suspects. The Joint Task Force was said to have stormed the area to flush out the vandals by clearing the bush, which provided a hiding place for the vandals. But the vandals, who got a tip-off, went ahead of the officers and poured petrol on the path the military officers were to take. However, it was another set of vandals that went to set the path on fire. These vandals, who did not know the extent to which the first group had poured petrol, entered into part of the bush and threw the firebomb at the military men, when the fire consumed them.
JTF Arrests Alleged Mastermind of Bayelsa Pipeline Bombing
The Joint Force in the Niger Delta, Operation Pulo Shield, has arrested the suspected mastermind of the bombing of the pipelines belonging to Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) in Bayelsa State. The Operations Commander of the Operation Pulo Shield, Maj. Gen. Alani Okunlola, February 9, said their troops arrested the mastermind, Prince Alvin Cockman Oyegun, alias Commander Abula, following a manhunt. Okunlola said the suspect was arrested at Idema community in Ogbia LGA of Bayelsa State. The manifold that was attacked was a 24-inch manifold that conveys crude oil and gas. He added that the hunt for other suspects and accomplices was ongoing.
Terrorism
Suicide Bomber Kills 58 at Borno IDPs Camp
Two female bombers, February 10, attacked an Internally-Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Dikwa LGA of Borno State, killing about 58 persons. The Executive Chairman of State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Satomi Ahmed, who confirmed the attacked, added that 78 others were injured. Rescue workers disclosed that most of the victims were women and children. The suicide bombing follows the invasion of two communities in Damboa LGA by Boko Haram on Monday, which led to the death of six people. A member within the Civilian Joint Task Force disclosed that the terrorists attacked and burnt down Kalari and Adikai villages.
Residents Flee as Boko Haram Renews Onslaught
Thousands of residents of villages on the outskirts of Maiduguri, Borno State, February 6, fled their communities following intensified attacks by the insurgent group, Boko Haram. Boko Haram fighters resumed coordinated attacks on communities in Borno State recently and laid siege to two villages, Mairi and Malari, on February 5, where they killed four persons and torched the community. The renewed offensive by Boko Haram has led to the desertion of many communities in the suburbs of Maiduguri by residents. Some residents of the villages affected by the latest onslaught said the insurgents first attacked Mairi about 8pm and killed four persons, a teenage boy and three women, before proceeding to Malari village, where the entire village was razed, as the terrorists met a deserted village.
5 Killed as Boko Haram Attacks Traders in Borno Village
Boko Haram insurgents, February 8, attacked a group of firewood traders in Jawu village, in Konduga LGA of Maiduguri, Borno State, killing five persons. According to a relation to one of the victims, Modu Mai Ali, the traders, numbering about 15, were on their way to purchase firewood from the forest for onward delivery to Maiduguri when the insurgents from Sambisa Forest laid an ambush and opened fire on them, killing five persons in the process.
Gunmen Massacre 50 in Zamfara
About 50 villagers were, February 6, killed in Zamfara State by unknown gunmen suspected to be cattle rustlers. The assailants, who besieged Kwanar Dutse community in Maru LGA of the state, also razed several houses in the community. Eyewitnesses said the gunmen attacked the community when residents were asleep. A resident, Salisu Musa, said that the bandits, who came prepared to wreak havoc, operated till dawn without the intervention of the military or the police. Another witness, Hamza Bula, said that the assailants moved from house to house in a highly coordinated operation, killing anyone in sight. It was gathered that the gunmen, at the end of the attack, left unchallenged with an unspecified number of cattle. Police spokesperson, Sanusi Amiru, however, confirmed only 12 deaths in the attack. He disclosed that police and the military had been drafted to the area to restore peace and provide security for the community.
Teenage Suicide Bomber Refuses to Kill
Nigerian officials have said that a teenage girl packed with explosives by Boko Haram ripped off her vest to avoid taking part in an attack on the refugee camp in Dikwa, Borno State. Two others with her, however, walked into the middle of hundreds of people lining up for food before they blew themselves up in an attack on February 9 that killed 58 and wounded several others. The third bomber, looking about 14, has confessed. The girl reportedly said that she was scared because she knew she would kill people. A rescue official said the girl gave officials information about other planned bombings.
Political/Government Agencies
Murder/Assassinations
Fulani Herdsmen Kill 12 in Benue
An attack by suspected Fulani Herdsmen in Buruku LGA of Benue State on February 6 left 12 persons dead, while about 25 remain in critical conditions. The local government chairman, Godwin Iorsue and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) at Buruku and Area Commander were also allegedly ambushed by the herdsmen while on a fact-finding mission. The communities attacked included Tom-Anyiin and Tom-Ataan, all in Mbaya, Tombu in Buruku Local Government Area of the state. A resident of the area, Nomor Iorbee, who fled the troubled area, said he was still searching for his wife and children. He said the suspected Fulani herders took them by surprise and unleashed terror on them. The LGA chairman, Iorsue, confirmed that he and the senior security officers were ambushed on their way back from an assessment of the affected communities. But police spokesman, Moses Yamu, who also confirmed the incident, said no life was lost.
Man Stabs Mother to Death
The police in Lagos State have arrested a man, Ibrahim Oluyinde, for allegedly stabbing his mother to death on February 5 at the Abule Egba area of the state. Oluyinde allegedly killed his mother claiming that she was responsible for his father’s death in 2015. The suspect had gone to visit his mother in her rented apartment when an argument ensued. Neighbours reported that the woman soon raised an alarm, and was later heard begging her son not to kill her. The neighbours, who rushed to the scene, saw the woman in a pool of blood and quickly invited the police. The suspect, who reportedly fled the scene, was nabbed on February 6 by the police. The Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the incident.
Gunmen Kill NSCDC Official in Ife
Suspected armed robbers, February 8, killed Marcus Olatunji, an official of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), attached to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi. The deceased, who was armed, was on his way to buy airtime at a nearby kiosk when he was shot dead by the robbers believed to be coming from an operation. The source added that the hoodlums took Olatunji’s gun away. The Head of Public Relations of the Corps, Wale Folarin, confirmed the incident and assured that the Corps would get to the root of the matter.
Killer Cop Claims Accidental Discharge, Remanded in Custody
A police sergeant, Ologunowa Ojo, has been remanded by an Ebute-Meta Magistrates’ Court for allegedly killing a 45-year-old man, Taiye Akande. The magistrate, M.O. Olajuwon, said he should be remanded pending the release of legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions. Ojo was said to have shot dead the victim on February 3 at the Shapati, Ajah area of Lagos State. Ojo, who was attached to the Special Protection Unit, Oduduwa, Ikeja, was said to be guarding a company dealing in motorcycles in the area. Akande was said to have had an argument with the police sergeant, who then shot him in the buttocks, leading to his death. The police authorities immediately set up an orderly room trial for the suspect, leading to his dismissal from the force. The spokeswoman, Dolapo Badmos, described the incident as an accidental discharge.
6 IPOB Members Shot Dead in Aba
The protest embarked on by the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, over the prolonged detention of their leader, Nnamdi Kanu, February 9, turned bloody in Aba, Abia State, as a combined team of security agents, comprising soldiers and policemen allegedly fired shots at the protesters, killing six members of the group and arresting 20. The Police in Enugu also arrested 25 members of the IPOB, who had gathered at the Naira Triangle in preparation for a protest march. It was gathered that the protesters in Aba, had, as early as 9am, converged at National High School, along Aba-Port Harcourt road, from where they usually march to other areas of the city when security agents swooped on them. In the confusion, several protesters were injured while 6 were feared dead. The situation caused tension in the area as shop owners and residents scampered to safety.
Bauchi Police Arrest 2 Suspects for Murder
The Bauchi State Police Command, February 8, said that it had arrested two suspects in connection with the killing a 22-year-old man over allegation of theft. Police Public Relations Officer, Haruna Mohammed, who disclosed this, said that police detectives attached to Township Division, February 5, arrested Nasiru Ahmed (22) and Mohammed Abubakar (27) for murder. He said the suspects took the law into their hands and tortured 22-year-old Nasiru Jibrin to death over an allegation of theft of which no exhibit was recovered. Mohammed added that investigation into the case was in progress after which the suspects would be charged to court. He warned the public against taking laws into their hands, adding that they should not relent in providing useful information to enable the command provide security.
Stepson Kills Stepmother’s Lover
A 41-year-old man, King Akpanke, has been arrested by the police in Cross River State for killing his stepmother’s lover for having sex with her in his late father’s house. Akpanke, who said he acted in self-defence, said that he had, on several occasions, warned the deceased against coming to his late father’s house to have sex with his stepmother. He disclosed that the deceased and he were fighting in his father’s house when the incident occurred.
25-Year-Old Man Kills Father over Fight with Mother
A 25-year-old man, Mfreke Archibong Effiong, was February 11, paraded by the Akwa Ibom State Police Command for allegedly killing his father, Archibong Effiong in Ibesikpo-Asutan LGA of the state. Police Public Relations Officer, Cordelia Nwawe, said the suspect hit his father with a big stick on the head. The suspect attributed the incident to provocation as he never set out to kill his father. Mfreke said he had just returned from the farm when he met his father beating his mother. According to him, his mother was trying to explain what happened, when his father attacked him with a broken bottle. He said he was trying to defend himself when he hit his father with the stick on his right hand.
Gunmen Kill Former Rivers Lawmaker
A former member of Rivers State House of Assembly, Monday Eleanya, was, February 11, shot dead by gunmen on Ada George Road, Port Harcourt. It was gathered that he was driving in his SUV when the gunmen opened fire on him, killing him on the spot. The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Ahmad Muhammad, confirmed that the Police was aware that somebody was killed on that road but was not aware of the identity of the person.
Rape
Police Arrest 17-Year-Old for Raping, Impregnating Pupil
The police in Lagos have arrested a 17-year-old boy, Opeyemi Odujobi, for allegedly raping and impregnating a 15-year-old girl. It was learnt that Odujobi allegedly raped the girl in September 2015 at their residence in the Abule-Egba area of Lagos state. It was gathered that the girl had lived with her grandfather for some years, before the suspect joined them in 2015. The girl disclosed that she was asleep around 11pm sometime in September 2015 when the suspect allegedly sneaked to her side and raped her. The police, February 8, arraigned Odujobi before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court on one count of rape. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge and elected to summary trial. The presiding magistrate granted him bail in the sum of N250,000, with two responsible sureties in like sum, adding that one of the sureties must be a relation of the defendant. The case was adjourned till March 2, 2016.
Man Rapes, Impregnates 13-Year-Old Stepdaughter
The police in Ondo state are searching for a man, Femi Orojo, who is on the run after raping and impregnating his 13-year-old stepdaughter in Okitipupa. The suspect allegedly raped the girl in October 2015 while his wife and mother of the victim, Bunmi, was not at home. According to the mother, who had been married to the suspect for the past six years without any child, the suspect took to his heels after confessing to the crime. Bunmi explained that she discovered that the girl was five months pregnant recently, and upon interrogation, the girl reported that it was her stepfather who raped her. The victim reported that her stepfather entered her room with a machete and raped her, thereafter he brought out a red handkerchief and warned her not to tell anybody or else she would die. The police spokesman, Femi Joseph, February 10, said the suspect was yet to be arrested, adding that investigation into the matter was still ongoing.
Others
Police Arrest 2 with Human Head
Two men, Korede Ayofe and Jimoh Bello, were, February 6, arrested by officers of Osun State Police Command for allegedly being in possession of a human head. The suspects were apprehended in Owoyo area of Iwo, headquarters of Iwo LGA of the state by a police patrol team. The suspects were also in possession of a sharp knife, hoe and a motorcycle, alongside the decomposing human head. The Police Public Relations Officer, Folasade Odoro, said the command was investigating the incidents.
Two Dead, Eight Rescued in Lagos Boat Mishap
A boat mishap at the Badagry area of Lagos state, February 6, claimed two lives, while eight others were rescued. Two persons, who remained missing, were identified as the driver of the boat and a female passenger, who had boarded the boat at the Idagba area. It was gathered that the boat, which was conveying 10 passengers from Idagba to Iworo, capsized after it ran into a log of wood. The fibre passenger boat capsized and the passengers fell overboard into the lagoon. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), NEMA South-west Spokesperson, Ibrahim Farinloye, said emergency responders were immediately deployed to the scene.
Police to Treat Domestic Violence as Criminal Offence
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, February 5, said issues of gender-based violence and abuse of children would no longer be treated as domestic violence but criminal offences. The IGP made the disclosure in Abuja while speaking to participants at a one day Sensitisation/Awareness Workshop on Curbing Gender based violence in Nigeria. Arase stressed that the present day Police force had gone beyond allowing cases of domestic violence and abuse against women and children to be settled out of Police stations. The Police boss called for greater caution against gender violence and abuse against children, as he warned that perpetrators would be made to face the law as a criminal. He also called on members of the public to report any such case to the nearest police station as he promised protection of the privacy of the people and police readiness to act swiftly.
Customs Impound Truck-Loads of Smuggled Wood
The Ogun State Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, February 5, impounded seven truck-loads of unprocessed wood, allegedly being exported out of the country illegally. The vehicles, with foreign number plates, majorly of the Republic of Benin, were said to have been intercepted at the Ijoun area of the state, while in transit to Republic of Benin. Similarly, operatives of the command seized 1,035 bags of smuggled rice, in the Idoko area, while 10 vehicles used in smuggling them were impounded. The Area Controller, Ogun State Area Command, Multafu Jilantikiri, February 8, said the seizures were signals to other smugglers in the state that it would no longer be business as usual. He said five foreign nationals were arrested in connection with the truck-loads of unprocessed woods.
Blind Man Nabbed for Aiding Criminals
Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kaduna State have arrested a blind man, Muntari Idris, for harbouring and aiding criminal gangs in the state. Idris, 50, was arrested alongside one Adamu Mohammed by operatives of the NSCDC at Ungwar-Maigiginya in the Igabi LGA of the state following a tip-off. The blind man, it was gathered, claimed to be a businessman in landed property. He allegedly specialised in bailing criminals who indulge in cattle rustling, kidnapping and other criminal acts in the state. The suspect, whoever, denied aiding criminals, while Mohammed had confessed that he had accompanied Idrismany times to secure bail for suspected criminals. The state Commandant of the NSCDC, Alhaji Modu Bunu, said he had handed over the suspects to the Department of State Services in the state for further investigation and prosecution.
Suspects Attack Policeman in Ogun State
A police corporal was, February 6, attacked and beaten in the Agbado area of Ogun State while performing his lawful duty. It was gathered that four men attacked the corporal, when he got to the area to make an arrest. The suspects, Oluwaseyi Adejumo, Sunday Akinwunmi, Opeoluwapo Rasak and Ismaila Adesina, who have reportedly been arrested, allegedly attacked the corporal with weapons on Adiyan Road, Pipeline, Agbado area. The other policemen, who had gone with the corporal to make the arrests, reportedly fled the area and called for reinforcements from the police station. The incident occurred after a resident of the area reported a case of assault occasioning harm at the police station. The four policemen had been detailed to arrest the suspects, but when they got there, seven hoodlums, including the four men, swooped on the corporal and beat him to a pulp. Police spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the incident.
Suspected Thief Drowns in Well
A suspected thief, February 11, drowned in the Alagbado area of Lagos State. The man fell into a well on Modupe Ajayi Close at about 1am after he scaled the fence into the compound. His cries were said to have woken up residents, who alerted the police and officials of the Lagos State Fire Service. The Director of the Lagos State Fire Service, Rasak Fadipe, said that efforts were on to ascertain the identity of the victim. The Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the incident, describing the deceased as a suspected thief.
Power Firm Officials Electrocuted, Residents Blame Company
Two electricity workers were, February 10, electrocuted at Kogberegbe Street, in the Isolo area of Lagos State when they went to work on a transformer. Residents blamed the electricity distribution company, and called for an immediate investigation and prosecution of suspects. The first worker, identified as Aloma, was said to have mounted the high tension pole after a telephone call had been made to the office that power should be switched off. It was gathered that as the victim worked, power was suddenly restored in the area, causing his instant death. Aloma’s colleague, Bode, then called the office to alert them to the incident. After waiting for about one hour without anyone showing up, Bode was reported to have called the office again, informing them of his plan to remove the corpse of his colleague. According to reports, the power was again switched off and Bode climbed the pole. But as he started loosening the strap around Aloma’s waist to bring him down, power was restored again, causing his own death. Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, said investigation was ongoing into the incident.
Review/Analysis
Murder/assassination incidents maintain the top spot on the crime index as death rates increase. The authorities, in a fight to curtail murder related cases arrested virtually all known suspects. The cases are worrisome as children appear to turn their weapons against their parents, while law enforcement officials were felled by criminal bullets in the course of their lawful duties. We also witnessed cases of attacks on whole communities by suspected Fulani herdsmen. These incidents were recorded across the country.
Robbery incidents took an upward plunge but the activities of armed robbers were hampered by the tenacity of the authorities. Some suspects were arrested and taken to custody, while others remain at large, but the police maintain that they are committed to apprehending all suspects. The south-west and south-east recorded more of these incidents.
Kidnap/hostage cases also maintained a high position on the crime index as innocent persons were variously taken hostage across the country. Kidnappers appear more vicious as they unrelentingly carry out attacks with huge ransoms being demanded for their release. The authorities, however, fought hard and succeeded in rescuing some kidnap victims, and arresting some suspects. This was witnessed more in the south-east and south-west of the country.
The Nigerian navy and other security agencies were tough in their fight against maritime activities and pipeline vandalism. This is as pipeline vandals and sea pirates, who almost made away with a foreign vessel and its cargos, were arrested. Nemesis caught up with some vandals, who attacked the JTF, as some of them got caught up in a fire they had set as ambush for the security operatives. However, some naval personnel lost their lives in another ambush by vandals at the Arepo area of Ogun State. The south-west and south-south recorded more of this incident.
The activities of Boko Haram terrorists continued as the insurgents attacked defenceless villagers, who have been forced to flee the communities. While some suicide bombers attacked an IDP camp, one girl bomber refused to detonate her bomb, and is reportedly cooperating with security operatives. Some suicide bombers and suspected terrorists were, however, apprehended by military. The north-east continues to bear the brunt of terrorist activities.
The authorities maintain their call to the public to always provide them with useful information that could lead to the arrest of suspects. Let us come together to keep our safe for all.
Villeworth urges you to remain law abiding.