Villeworth Security Services Ltd

week 8

SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY

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

Kidnap/Hostage Incidents

Gunmen Kidnap Commissioner’s 85-Year-Old Mother

Yet-to-be-identified gunmen, February 13, abducted the 85-year-old mother of Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Austin Tam-George. The octogenarian, Patience Tam-George, was kidnapped at her hometown, George-Ama town, in Okrika LGA of the state. She was returning from church when the masked armed men abducted her and escaped in a speed boat. The commissioner, Austin Tam-George, disclosed that the kidnappers had made contact with the family and had made a ransom demand of N30 million. He appealed for her safe and unconditional release, urging the gang to consider her unstable health condition and age. The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Ahmad Muhammad, confirmed the incident.

Police Arrest Teenager over Abduction of New-Born in Yobe

Police in Yobe State have arrested a teenage girl, who abducted a new-born baby. The commissioner of police, Zannah Ibrahim, during the parade of 15 suspected criminals, February 12, said the teenage girl, who was arrested for abducting the newly born baby, had been charged to court. He said the culprit visited the state specialists’ hospital to share the joy of the new born baby with the family only to cunningly steal the baby away. The CP thanked the people of the state for the support accorded to security agencies which contributed to the reduction in crime. He called for the support to be sustained.

Police Kill Kidnappers in Military Camouflage, Rescue Victims

The Kogi State Police Command, February 12, gunned down one kidnapper dressed in military camouflage and rescued three victims along Okene-Edo boundary. The Police Commissioner, Bancen Gwana, disclosed that about 4 kidnappers had kidnapped three persons after robbing them along Adogo-Ebia. But the police acted as soon as they got the information and trailed the suspects. He disclosed that luck ran out on them when his men tracked them to the bush along Okene-Benin boundary, where they stopped to rest with the victims after trekking for five hours. According to him, the kidnappers opened fire on the police, which led to a gun battle during which one of the kidnappers dressed in Military camouflage was killed, while the others escaped with gunshot wounds. He called on the general public to report any body with gunshot wounds to the police.

Police Nab 3 Suspected Kidnappers, Rescue Hostages

The Bauchi State Police Command, February 15, arrested three suspected kidnappers who allegedly kidnapped two children and demanded for N500,000  as ransom. Police Public Relations Officer, Haruna Mohammed, disclosed that the three suspects conspired and kidnapped two children, aged eight and nine, of Dungal village in Bauchi and demanded N500,000 from their parents. Both victims were rescued in good condition and handed over to their parents. One Dane gun and N66,000 were reportedly recovered from the suspects.

Retired Permanent Secretary Kidnapped, Released in Enugu
…Relative Bearing Ransom Shot, Wounded

A retired Permanent Secretary in Enugu State, John Abugu, was, February 13, kidnapped by unknown persons. Abugu was reportedly trailed by his abductors from Imufu, Enugu Ezike where he attended the funeral ceremony of his relation to his residence in Enugu, where they attacked him at his gate. He was in the company of his wife and two daughters when the incident occurred. The kidnappers, who also seized Abugu’s wife’s telephone, were said to have demanded N50 million as ransom for his release. Abugu, was, however, released after spending five days in captivity. A relative of the victim, Chima Adonu, who was said to have taken an undisclosed amount of cash to the kidnappers in their den, was said to have been shot severally on his leg and hand.

Gunmen Abduct Jonathan’s Cousin

Yet-to-be identified gunmen, February 17, invaded the sleepy community of Otuoke, the country home of former President Goodluck Jonathan and successfully abducted his cousin, Chief Inengite Nitabai. This is the second time in three years that Nitabai would be abducted. The 72-year-old Nitabai, a prominent chief of Otuoke in Ogbia LGA of Bayelsa State, was whisked away from his residence at about 3.30am by seven armed men through the Otuoke creek. Nitabai is described as the head of the compound from where the former president hails from. Police Public Relations Officer, Asinim Butswat, confirmed the abduction, adding that a massive manhunt has been launched by a combined team of Marine Police and Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Command, to rescue the victim and arrest the abductors.

Robbery

2 Policemen, 2 Bankers Killed in Osun Bank Robbery

The Osun State Commissioner of Police, Kola Sodipo, February 14, said that two policemen and two bank workers were killed during a bank robbery in Ikirun on February 12. Sodipo stated that the deceased were the first target of the robbers on arrival. The gang of armed robbers had invaded Skye Bank, First Bank and Union Bank in Ikirun. The police boss, who said swift response by the police foiled the robbery operation, noted that four of the robbers were killed while four were arrested. Sodipo added that the police recovered N7, 486, 300 from the hoodlums. Three AK riffles with 124 rounds of ammunition, one assault rifles with 12 rounds live ammunition, expended shells of ammunition and dynamite were also recovered, according to the police boss.

Niger Police Arrests 24 Armed Robbers

The Niger State Police Command has arrested 9 members of a gang of notorious armed robbers along the Minna-Suleja High way in the state. The State Commissioner of Police, Abubakar Marafa, February 12, disclosed that the men were arrested with two fabricated AK47 rifles with 21 rounds of live ammunition, a single barrel gun, one Dane gun, 40 arrows and two cars as well as motorcycles that they used in their operations. He further revealed that another two-man gang of armed robbers were also arrested. Six AK47 Rifles as well as three vehicles were recovered from the gang. The Police Boss also disclosed that the police had arrested 7 armed robbers/kidnappers with 2 AK47 rifles and 134 rounds of live ammunition.

Conductor Robs Workers in Ogun State

A 26-year-old conductor, Chinenye Okoro, has been arrested by the Ogun State Police Command for allegedly robbing three factory workers in the Sango area of the state. The suspect was arrested along with his roommate, 16-year-old Kalu. It was learnt that the workers were returning from at night on February 15 when Okoro, who had a gun alongside his gang members, ambushed them in the Ntabo, Ogba Ayo area and led them to an uncompleted building, where they were dispossessed of their valuables. One of the victims, 24-year-old Ibrahim Oladeji, said he took courage and challenged Okoro after the other two victims, who were ladies, managed to escape from the scene. Oladeji said he challenged the suspect, who hit him with a gun and fled. But he chased him into a corner while calling for help and a resident helped in apprehending the suspect. The Ogun State Police spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, said the police had launched a manhunt for the fleeing members of the gang.

Gunmen Cart Away Delta Council’s Cooperative Funds

Two gunmen, February 15, stormed the Ughelli North council secretariat and made away with an unspecified sum of money meant for members of the council’s cooperative society. Though details of the incident remain sketchy, a witness disclosed that the hoodlums came in a motorcycle, and collected the money from the boot of the car belonging to an official of the cooperative. According to the source, the cooperative official had withdrawn the said money from a bank in Ughelli and went straight to the secretariat from where the money would be disbursed to members, when the hoodlums struck and took the money away.

Delta Police Search for Carjackers

Police detectives in Delta State have begun a manhunt for a gang of armed robbers, who snatch cars in Warri metropolis and its environs. The police detectives in the state were able to recover a stolen vehicle and a locally-made pistol from robbers in Warri. Police Public Relations Officer, Celestina Kalu, February 16, said a patrol team from Area Commander’s office in Warri suspected the vehicle and gave it a chase after the driver of the car refused to stop for search along Iyarafido Junction in Warri. She said the occupants of the vehicle, on noticing that policemen were closing in on them, jumped out of the car and escaped. The team, according to her, promptly recovered the vehicle and recovered one locally-made pistol, a Nokia phone and an Ecobank cheque book belonging to the victim, who was earlier robbed of the vehicle.

Gang Incidents

15 Killed in Rivers Cult War

About 50 heavily armed men suspected to be cult members, February 12, stormed Omoku Community in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA of Rivers State and killed about 15 persons. The hoodlums, armed with cutlasses and different rifles, including AK-47 guns, arrived in Omoku town at about 7pm and began shooting sporadically. It was revealed that some of the slain persons were beheaded. Among those killed were a couple and two brothers from the same parents. A witness disclosed that some of the worst hit areas in Omoku were Sabo Road, Odieti Quarters, Usoniri Quarters and Obakata Quarters. The State Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmad Muhammad, confirmed the incident, but said only six persons, who were members of a cult group, were killed.

Army Arrest 4-Man Criminal Gang

The Nigerian Army, February 14, said it had arrested members of a four-man gang that had been terrorising residents of Ulakwo community in Etche LGA of Rivers State. There have been rising cases of cultism, assassinations, armed robbery and kidnapping in parts of the LGA. The Assistant Director, Army Public Relations Officer, 2 Brigade, Port Harcourt, Captain Eli Lazarus, disclosed that following intelligence report, troops raided criminal hideouts in Ulakwo community and recovered arms and ammunition, including two Pump Action rifles, a Dane gun and four cartridges of live ammunitions. Lazarus said the suspects would be handed over to the Department of State Security (DSS) for further investigation and possible prosecution. He said the Army had put in place mechanisms to curb crime in the state. The army spokesman urged members of the public to continue to provide security agencies with information that could lead to the arrest of criminals.

Police Parade 15 Suspected Criminals

The Anambra State police command, February 16, paraded 15 suspected cultists and armed robbers, including four women. The suspects were arrested in various parts of the state. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Ali Okechukwu, said the suspected cultists belong to dangerous groups that have been terrorizing parts of Nkpor, Obosi and Onitsha and many institutions of learning in the state, while the suspected armed robbers were operating from the neighbouring states. Items recovered from them included various types of locally made pistols, live cartridges, bags of Indian hemp, initiation materials among others.

Police, Thugs Clash over Death of Resident

Thugs and policemen clashed over the death of a 25-year-old man, Monsuru Alapini, on February 14 at the Oworonshoki area of Lagos, causing pandemonium. Monsuru, a commercial motorcyclist, was reportedly stabbed to death by a rival cult during a birthday party held in the neighbourhood. The violence continued on February 15 with policemen from the Oworonshoki division engaging gang members of the deceased. A resident revealed that the gang chased the policemen, who later reinforced to disperse them. However, residents of Ferry, where Monsuru lived, accused the monarch in the area of sponsoring the faction that killed Monsuru. The Lagos State Police spokesperson, Dolapo Badmos, said some suspects had been arrested.

Thugs Invade General Hospital, Attack Health Workers, Patients

Unidentified thugs, February 14, stormed the Orile-Agege General Hospital in Lagos State, stabbing everyone in sight including doctors, nurses and patients in the various wards. The thugs invaded the hospital to protest against the doctors that treated an injured rival cultist. The thugs, numbering about 20, who freely used cutlasses, knives, broken bottles and other dangerous objects on any one in sight as they raided the hospital for over 30 minutes around midnight, just after doctors had treated a man simply called Taiye, also carted away valuables and personal belongings. According to a nurse, the thugs invaded the hospital because they wanted their earlier victim dead and not treated. Sources said that it took a long time before security operatives responded to the distress call and came to the rescue the occupants held hostage in the hospital.

Drugs

Woman Ingests 80 Wraps of Cocaine, Vomits 15 at Abuja Airport

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), February 12, disclosed that a 48-year-old woman, Saidat Bola Hassan, presented a mild drama at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) Abuja when she allegedly vomited 15 wraps of white powdery substances that tested positive for cocaine. The incident took place at the central screening section of the departure hall during screening of passengers on an Egypt Airline flight to Jedda, Saudi Arabia en-route Cairo. She was immediately apprehended by officers of the NDLEA, who discovered that she had ingested 80 wraps of cocaine, weighing 904 grammes. NDLEA Abuja airport commander, Hamisu Lawan, said that efforts were made to protect her from any harm resulting from drug ingestion. While under observation, she excreted 65 similar wraps.

67 Bags of Drugs Seized in Kaduna

The Kaduna State Police command, February 15, intercepted 33 bags of hemp, as well as 34 baskets of other hard drugs in Kaduna town. The state Commissioner of Police, Umar Shehu, while displaying the illicit drugs at the command’s headquarters, said his men also arrested over 150 suspects over illicit drug dealing. They are being prosecuted in courts. Umar said men of the command recovered 10 bags of hemp hidden in used cement bags with 10 cartons of hard drugs, as well as 17 jerry cans of liquid toxicant acid from suspects. The commissioner added that the intercepted drugs would be handed over to the state command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Militancy/Maritime

Buhari Reinforces Military Presence in N-Delta

President Muhammadu Buhari, February 15, announced the deployment of military and task forces to the Niger Delta region in a bid to control oil theft and vandalism of oil and gas pipeline in the region. The president also said the deployment of troops in the region was to stop the kidnapping of citizens for ransom in the coastal areas of the country.

Terrorism

Boko Haram Terrorists Kill 30 in Raid on Two Borno Villages

Boko Haram militants killed at least 30 people during attacks on two remote villages of Yakshari and Kachifa in Damboa district of Borno State. Vigilante fighters and local officials disclosed that the raiders also looted food supplies, carted away herds, and kidnapped women and children. Musa Suleiman, a member of a local vigilante group, confirmed that the attackers slaughtered 8 people in Kachifa on February 12 and 22 people in Yakshari on February 13.

Nigerian Military Clears More Boko Haram Enclaves, Kill 10 Terrorists

The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, February 13, disclosed that troops of 25 and 26 Task Force Brigades in conjunction with Cameroonian forces carried out clearance operation against the Boko Haram terrorists around Ngoshe village. According to Usman, all Boko Haram terrorists’ enclaves within the area were cleared during the operations, adding that “the troops killed 10 Boko Haram terrorists and also rescued 45 persons which included 17 women and 28 children”. He said the troops also discovered that the terrorists cratered the road linking Pulka, Mararraba and Ngoshe and safely detonated five IEDs buried by the terrorists. In addition, he said, they also destroyed an IED manufacturing workshop in the village.

Troops Destroy Boko Haram Camps in Sambisa, Alagarno, Kill Two Terrorists

The Nigerian Army, in its continued offensive operations of destroying all Boko Haram terrorists’ camps and enclaves around Alagarno and Sambisa forests, killed 2 Boko Haram terrorists and captured 2 notorious terrorists; Mustapha Busuru (50 years old) and Usman Abubakar (56 years) at Dole village, where they recovered Improvised Explosives Making Devices (IEDs). In response to a distress call of an attack by Boko Haram terrorists on Kuda village along Butuku road, troops of 143 Battalion swung into action, unfortunately the terrorists fled after setting the village on fire that led to the death of an elderly woman. 3 soldiers and 4 locals sustained injuries, while the troops recovered 1 Toyota Buffalo vehicle mounted with an Anti-Aircraft Gun, one General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), a loaded G3 rifle magazine and 30 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunitions link. Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, Director Army Public Relations, February 16, confirmed the incidents.

Boko Haram Kills Six, Razes Houses in Adamawa

Suspected Boko Haram members, February 15, attacked and killed six persons in Kuda village of Madagali LGA of Adamawa State. The insurgents razed over 20 houses in the attack. It was learnt that the insurgents invaded the village at night when the villagers were preparing going to bed. It was learnt that they shot at fleeing villagers thus killing five persons and injuring several others. According to eyewitnesses, the heavily armed insurgents invaded the village on foot and carted away some valuables. Confirming the incident, the head of Krichinga, Abubakar Kanuri, said the insurgents came through Malakwaya, a section of the Sambisa Forest. Kanuri said the military in company with some vigilante members and hunters drafted to fight the insurgents had pursued the insurgents into Sambisa Forest. Kanuri lamented that the security situation in the area had worsened day following the different styles adopted by the insurgents.

Armed Men Invade Madagali LGA, Cart Away over 1,000 Cows

Cattle rustlers suspected to be members of Boko Haram, February 12, attacked in Madagali LGA of Adamawa state, carting away over 1000 cows, 70 sheep and 40 goats. The armed rustlers, numbering about 30, invaded Madagali settlement at about 10am. An eyewitness said the stolen cattle hoot-prints were traced by locals of the affected area into Sambisa forest and could not go further for the fear of being killed by the members of the Boko Haram who they alleged were still in control of some parts of the forest.

Military Clears More Boko Haram Enclaves, Rescues 195 Captives

The Nigerian troops of 7 Division Garrison, comprising 112 Battalion and Armed Forces Special Forces, have carried out a  joint clearance  patrol of suspected Boko Haram terrorists’ locations at Kwaptara, Mijigete, Garin Boka, Mosole, Ngubdori, Ma’asa, Dukje and Gulumba in Dikwa and Bama Local Government Areas of Borno State. The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, February 18, said that the troops discovered Boko Haram terrorists’ camp, patent medicine outfit and major market at Gulumba. He added that a number of Boko Haram terrorists were killed and several items were recovered, including two logistic trucks, 180 motorcycles, 750 bicycles and various perishable and non-perishable items such as a 100 KVA Mikano generator and grinding machine. He further disclosed that the troops also rescued 195 persons held hostage.

Four Killed in Fresh Boko Haram Attack

Four persons were, February 11, killed by Boko Haram during an attack on Shuwari Village in Konduga LGA of Borno State. The Chairman of Borno State Emergency Management Agency, Ahmed Satomi, confirmed the attack. Satomi said the attackers killed four people, looted and carted away food items as well as burnt down the village. He said that some lucky villagers were able to escape to nearby Dalori IDPs camp and Maiduguri. Boko Haram insurgents have continued to intensify attacks on troubled Borno State in recent weeks.

Cameroonian Forces Hand over Boko Haram Suspects to Nigerian Soldiers

The combined efforts of the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in the on-going counter-insurgency in the Northeast, has continued to yield results as the Commander of 121 Task Force Battalion received two suspected terrorists handed over to him by Cameroonian forces, even as 112 people were rescued from the insurgents in joint operations. The operation which took place in Kirawa, near the border of the two countries was carried out by troops of the 26 Task Force Brigade and their Cameroonian counterparts. Spokesman of the Nigerian Army, Colonel Sani Usman, February 15, disclosed that the Commander of the 1 Battalion of the Cameroonian Forces paid a courtesy call on Commander of the 121 Task Force Battalion in Pulka to consolidate on the cordial relationship and hand over two suspected Boko Haram terrorists to the Nigerian unit. But one of the visiting unit’s vehicles reportedly ran into an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), buried along Pulka-Ngoshe road which led to an officer and eight soldiers sustaining injuries. Unfortunately, the officer died while being evacuated to Douala by air.

Political/Government Agencies

Army Relocates Command Headquarter to Aba to Curb Pro-Biafra Protests, Kidnapping

In a bid to contain the increasing protest by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and the Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign States of Biafra (MASSOB), and ensure adequate protection of lives and property in Aba, Abia State, the 14 Brigade, Ohafia, has concluded plans to relocate its command headquarters to the city. Commanding Officer, 14 Brigade Ohafia, Brigadier General Lawrence Fejokwu, who stated this, noted that Aba had become a hot spot because of the activities of the IPOB and MASSOB agitating for the actualization of a sovereign state of Biafra, as well as the resurgence of kidnapping and sundry crimes. He stressed that all hands must be on deck to tackle the trend.

Murder/Assassinations

Undergraduates Arrested for Murder

Operatives of the anti-kidnapping unit of the Enugu State Police Command have arrested two University undergraduates who have been at large over the gruesome killing of a woman, Stella Uhuo, in November 2015. The suspects, James Okoh and Victor Uchenna Okefie, both of whom have had acquaintance with the deceased, were at Akanu-Ibiam International Airport, Enugu to pick the woman, who had just returned from the USA, and convey her to Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. It was gathered that the duo, final year Sociology students, rather took her to a lonely road while on the journey, robbed and beat her to death. Police Public Relations Officer, Ebere Amaraizu, confirmed the arrest of the suspects. The suspects had been at large since committing the dastardly act until the operatives nabbed Okoh on January 29, in his hostel at Ebonyi State while Okefie was trailed to his parent’s house in Kogi State on January 31, where he was nabbed.

Two Killed, 19 Missing as Fulani Herdsmen Invade Enugu Community

Two persons were killed and 19 others are missing after suspected Fulani herdsmen invaded Abbi community in Uzo-Uwani LGA of Enugu State on February 11. The Fulani herdsmen reportedly unleashed mayhem on the people, killing a brother and sister, and razed down about seven houses. It was gathered that the Fulani herdsmen numbering over 30 emerged from the bush, wreaked havoc on the community and fled into the bush without any form of resistance.

Man Beheaded in Ebonyi/Benue Boundary Dispute

One Eze Stephen of Ojiogu village, Ukwuagba-Ngbo community in Ohaukwu LGA of Ebonyi State was reportedly beheaded over the lingering war between the community and their counterpart of Agila in Ado LGA of Benue State. Police Spokesperson for Ebonyi State Police Command, George Okafor, February 15, confirmed that the command received a report from the Coordinator of the Development Centre, Donatus Agbo, on the attack. He said the matter was still under investigation. He added that the police recovered some of the AK47 empty shell bullets used by the Agila people during the invasion. Okafor disclosed that security personnel had been deployed to the area to ensure adequate protection of lives and properties and to cause the immediate release of the kidnapped victim in the area.

Police Nab NURTW Chief for Alleged Murder

The Anti-Robbery Squad of the State Department of Criminal Investigation, Lagos State Police Command has arrested a murder suspect, Kunle Oshineye, for his alleged involvement in the killing of two men in Akoka, Bariga. Oshineye, an executive member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in the Jibowu area, was said to have been arrested at a party on February 12. The suspect, who allegedly belonged to the Eiye Confraternity, was among those who killed Daniel and Abiye, who were slain on January 22, 2016. The deceased were said to be members of the Aiye Confraternity, a rival group. The death of Daniel and Abiye, had led to the killing of a 63-year-old businesswoman, Adejoke Adefuye, on Oshinfolarin Street, Bariga, a day later. The suspect, who denied being a cultist, said that he did not kill anyone.

3 Murder Suspects Apprehended in Ogun State

Three members of a gang of armed robbers, alleged to have killed no fewer than nine persons in the Ijoko area of Sango Ota, Ogun State, have been arrested by police in the state. The state Police Commissioner, Abdulmajid Ali, said the gang had been terrorising the people of Ijoko area for seven years. According to the police commissioner, the suspects, who belonged to the same robbery gang and cult group, have confessed to committing the crimes. The commissioner further explained that a team of Special Anti-Robbery Squad in the state stormed their hideout and arrested Ogundairo with one double-barrelled cut-to-size pistol and one single-barrelled pistol with 14 live cartridges and two expended cartridges. According to Ali, the arrest of the suspect, who confessed to have killed five persons in Ijoko area, led to the arrest of the other two.

Two Killed as Gunmen Invade Plateau Community

Two persons were, February 16, killed and five others injured when unknown gun attacked Kwal community near Jos, Plateau State. Students of the Nigerian College of Accountancy (NCA), Kwal fled their campus following the invasion of the community. Management Committee Chairman of Bassa LGA, Sarah Bali, who confirmed the attack, added that she had visited the community and normalcy had been restored. She assured that security operatives were working round the clock to arrest the perpetrators. Police spokesman, Emmanuel Abuh, noted that the policemen had been deployed to the scene.

Lebanese Killed in Kano

A 67-year-old Lebanese man resident in Kano State, was, February 15, killed at his fortified residence located at Unity Road, Kano Central Business District. The Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Katsina, disclosed that the deceased was slaughtered by his ‘close associate’ in his apartment. The police boss noted that four suspects had been arrested in connection with the gruesome murder.

3 Killed in Otukpo Political Crisis

Three persons were reportedly killed ahead of the Benue South senatorial rerun election slated for February 20. The incident occurred when supporters of All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), clashed. Those killed in the crisis were Okwoche Omale, Andrew Adaji and Audu Okopi, with several houses also razed. It was gathered that the crisis was triggered by a disagreement between the caretaker Chairman of Otukpo LGA, Ijachi Ude of the APC and his younger brother, Eje Ude of the PDP. The representative of Otukpo/Akpa in the state House of Assembly, Johnson Ahubi, alleged that the crisis was triggered by APC supporters, expressing dismay at the attitude of the Police in Otukpo, whom he accused of failing in their duties.

Pastor Stabs Wife to Death

A crack team of detectives from the Edo state Police Command are hunting for a Pastor, Henry Ojochunu Ekukpe, who allegedly stabbed his 29-year-old wife, Patience, to death. It was learnt that Henry, who got married to Patience in 2014 had been having issues that forced the deceased out of his house. The fugitive Pastor had invited the deceased for a dialogue under the guise that he wanted her back to the house. It was learnt that when the deceased came, the Pastor used a hidden knife to stab her in different parts of her body and escaped from the area. The police found a note containing ten questions meant for the late woman. The Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Osifo, who confirmed the incident, vowed that the police would ensure the culprit was arrested and brought to book.

Man Beheads 3-Year-Old Niece for Ritual

Police detectives in Ondo State have arrested a 42-year-old man, Samuel Omosaba, for allegedly beheading his three-year-old niece for ritual. The deceased, Adubarin Kola, was murdered at Ikare-Akoko in Akoko North-East LGA of the state. The suspect, who is single and jobless, allegedly contacted an herbalist for money ritual and he was reportedly asked to come with the head of someone aged below five years. It was also gathered that the deceased’s mum, identified as Bunmi, had taken the girl to her grandmother’s place where she met the suspect as the old woman was said to have gone out, and the suspect promised to look after the girl before his mother returned. But when Bunmi returned, the lifeless body of her child was found in the suspect’s room. He reportedly told the family members why he beheaded the three-year-old girl. Police spokesman, Femi Joseph, confirmed the incident.

Rape

Man, 55, Arrested for Raping 7-Year-Old Boy

The Police in Nasarawa State have arrested a 55-year-old man, Isa Musa, for allegedly having forceful carnal knowledge of a 7-year–old boy after luring him with N100. Police spokesperson, Ismaila Numa, who confirmed the arrest on February 14, alleged that Musa took the minor to an uncompleted building before forcefully having carnal knowledge of the young boy.

Police in Nasarawa Arrest Two Men over Gang Rape of 12-Year-Old Girl

The Nasarawa State Police Command has arrested two men, Iliyasu Mohammed and Shaibu Isah, for gang raping a 12-year-old hawker. According to reports, the suspects forcefully took the 12-year-old girl, who was hawking sachet water to an uncompleted building and had unlawful carnal knowledge of her. Police Public Relations Officer, Ismaila Numa, February 15, disclosed that the girl was rescued by members of the public, who heard her cry for help.

Man Remanded in Prison for Allegedly Raping Orphan

An Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court, February 18, remanded a 20-year-old, Abdulsalam Olayinka, in prison for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl on February 14. Chief Magistrate Tajudeen Elias ordered that the accused should be remanded in Kirikiri Prison and adjourned the case till February 24 for ruling on the bail application. The prosecutor, Inspector Benedict Aigbokhan, told court that the offence was committed when the accused went to his friend’s house and did not meet him at home. The suspect, who saw the girl in the house, called the victim and dragged her to the top of the house where he raped her. The victim reportedly called for help, but no one in the house came to her rescue except her aged grandmother. The accused pleaded not guilty.

Court Remands 20-Year-Old Man for Abduction, Rape

A Chief Magistrate Court in Gusau in Zamfara State has ordered the remand of a 20-year-old man, Bashiru Aliyu, for abduction and rape. The prosecutor, Corporal Ibrahim Aliyu, told the court that on January 19, one Abdul Abdullahi reported the case at Shinkafi Police Station. The prosecutor disclosed that the accused person, had on January 16, allegedly abducted the complainant’s 15-year-old sister to an unknown destination and all efforts to trace her proved abortive. He said that on January 19, the accused person was found with the complainant’s sister at Damba Area of Gusau, where he was alleged to have raped her. The accused person pleaded not guilty to the offence. The Chief Magistrate, Alhaji Bello Kucheri consequently ordered that the accused person should be remanded in prison custody. He adjourned the case to March 1, for further mention.

Man Arrested over Rape of 10-Year-Old Boy

One Adamu Hassan (22), was February 12, arrested by a passer-by and dragged to the police by one Saidu Lawal over the rape of a 10-year-old boy. According to the good citizen, while he was on his way to his shop along Saman Labara market, Doma, LGA of Nasarawa State, a 10-year old boy ran to him for safety saying one Adamu Hassan had unlawful carnal knowledge of him in an uncompleted building. Police spokesperson, Ismaila Numa, confirmed that the suspect was arrested and brought to the station, adding that evidence from preliminary investigation revealed that indeed the offence was committed.

Others

275 Suspected Boko Haram Detainees Released by Military

The military, February 12, released 275 persons, including Nigeriens and two Cameroonians, arrested and detained in connection with Boko Haram insurgency in Borno State. The Theatre Commander of the counter-insurgency operation in the North-East, Operation Lafiya Dole, Maj. Gen. Hassan Umaru, while handing the detainees over to the Borno State government, said the military decided to let them go after they were "properly profiled, screened and cleared". He disclosed that eight cases that were criminal in nature would be handed over to the Nigerian Police for further investigation and possible prosecution. Borno State Governor, Kashim Shettima, while receiving the detainees on behalf of their families commended the military "for being fair”. He promised that government would assist the released detainees to start a new life.

Transformer Vandal Electrocuted in Ekiti

A yet-to-be identified transformer vandal, February 14, electrocuted while vandalising a power transformer on Poly Road in Ado LGA of Ekiti State. Public Relations Officer of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BDEC) Ekiti State, Kayode Ilori, said that the deceased must have started his illicit business when power was restored to the cables, which electrocuted him. The Police promised that investigations would be conducted with a view to finding out the accomplices of the deceased, while the corpse was taken away.

Customs Intercepts Arms, Ammunition at Lagos Port

The Tin-Can Island port command of the Nigeria Customs Service, (NCS), February 15, intercepted arms and ammunition concealed in a container and one suspect was arrested. Customs Area Comptroller (CAC), Yusuf Bashar, said that the healthy collaboration amongst security agencies working in the command led to the interception. Bashar also said that the Customs will continue to synergize with all relevant agencies to ensure the security and safety of Nigeria. Over 980 rounds of live 9mm ammunitions and one Taurus pistol were recovered. Also contained amongst the military ware was a pair of black boot, a military face cap, a pair of camouflage hand gloves and an army coloured plastic container. He added all the contents of the box measuring 13cmx11cm are prohibited items to be imported by any individual adding that these are material that can only be imported by the military.

Man Slices Lover’s Face, Assaults Rival on Valentine’s Day

A jealous man, February 14, attacked and inflicted horrific facial injuries on his ex-lover and her current boyfriend at Langbasa, in Eti-Osa area of Lagos State. The angry man, simply identified as Gbenga, was alleged to have inflicted several cuts on the face of the lady, Magdalene Onyebuchi, with a razor blade. Gbenga also attacked and injured her boyfriend, identified as Olatunji. A friend to Olatunji, who gave his name as Bashiru disclosed that Gbenga had been dating Magdalene before Olatunji. He said because Gbenga was a violent type, who usually beat up Magdalene at any slight provocation, the girl dumped him for Olatunji. He said the crisis came to a boiling point when Gbenga caught the duo on Valentine’s Day making out. Gbenga is currently on the run.

IGP Warns IPOB against Use of Fire Arms

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, has warned members of Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB against bearing of firearms, as he warned that the security agents would deal decisively with them. Members of the group had earlier said they were going to be bearing firearms to protect their members from incessant attacks and killing of their members by security agents. The Police high Command, through the Force spokesperson, Olabisi Kolawole, said the group should ventilate their grievances through lawful means.

Review/Analysis

Murder/assassination incidents continue to take the top spot as people are killed across the country. The authorities were closely engaged in the fight against inordinate killings as they variously arrested suspects and gang members involved in deadly cult wars. The Police also made a breakthrough with the arrest of two university undergraduates, who murdered a US returnee in cold blood in 2015. A horrific killing was the beheading of a 3-year-old girl by a trusted uncle, who was supposed to take care of her. The suspect, after arrest, had confessed that he killed her for money ritual. These incidents were recorded in different regions of the country.

Boko Haram Terrorists continue to attack and kill villagers in the north-eastern part of the country, despite the unrelenting military onslaught. The terrorists attacked and killed unarmed villagers, looted and razed some villages. The military, in its continued offensives, and in conjunction with the Cameroonian forces carried out fighting patrols, clearing some areas of traces of the insurgents. Suspects were also arrested while various calibres of arms, ammunition and IEDs were recovered. It is also cheering as the military successfully rescued hostages held by the terrorists, including several women and children. The military in line with keeping with the principles of fundamental human rights, released some detainees, who had been profiled and found not to be involved in terrorism. The north-east remains the endemic region.

Kidnap/hostage cases were also high on the crime index. Business men, political figures and their families, the aged and even babies were variously taken hostage. In an effort to curb the menace of kidnapping, the authorities rescued some victims and shot dead one kidnapper dressed in military camouflage. These were largely recorded in the eastern, northern and southern parts of the country.

Robbery and gang activities kept the law enforcement agencies across the country working round the clock, responding to distress calls. The police, in various incidents, successfully foiled some robbery operations, killed and arrested suspects and also recovered stolen vehicles and arms.

Supremacy battles and reprisal attacks among warring gangs saw several persons, including rival gangs members killed in clashes. The police, however, responded swiftly and arrested the culprits while other remained large.

Rape incidents, involving minors, tend to be on the increase, and possibly taking a new dimension as young boys are presently being preyed upon by rapists. The police made good arrests of suspects in all the recorded incidents. The north-central and south-west regions of the country mostly witnessed these dastardly acts. Parents and guardians are urged to be extra vigilant in protecting their young ones (boys and girls) from falling victims to these rapists, who appear in any guise, especially as trusted friends and relatives.

The authorities continue to urge the public to always provide them with useful credible information that could lead to the arrest of suspects and reduction of crime. Let us come together to keep the society safe.

Villeworth urges you to remain law abiding.