Villeworth Security Services Ltd

Week 28

SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY

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

Kidnap/Hostage Incidents

Kidnapped Sierra Leonean Diplomat Freed

The Sierra Leonean diplomat, who was kidnapped in the early hours of July 1 on his way to Kaduna to honour an invitation for a military function, regained freedom on July 5 and has been reunited with the Sierra Leonean High Commissioner (ambassador) and his family. Force spokesman, Don Awunah, disclosed that the police identified where he was held captive and was rescued unhurt. Nelson-Williams’s abduction was the first of a Sierra Leone diplomat anywhere in the world since the country gained independence in 1961. Retired Ambassador Nigerian Suleiman Dahiru has condemned the kidnap of the Deputy High Commissioner in Nigeria, describing it as a bad signal.

19-Year-Old Kidnapped in Ondo

A 19-year-old secondary school student, Moyinoluwa Abdukareem, was July 2, kidnapped by a commercial motorcycle operator in Owo, Ondo state. Moyinooluwa, who had just finished a senior school certificate exams, is a daughter of a farmer in the ancient town of Owo. The victim, reportedly, asked the motorcycle operator to take her to one of the new generation banks in Owo but she was taken somewhere else after making the withdrawal. The abduction of the girl was disclosed by her father, Bola Abdulkareem, who said the girl had spoken with him from the kidnapper’s den once and that the matter had been reported to the Police. The Division Police Officer (DPO) of “A” Division in Owo, Mr Oluwole Fabiyi, confirmed the abduction. This comes as the Police are trying to unravel the disappearance of two siblings, Dapo Babatobi (9) and Olajuwon Babatobi (7). They were declared missing on June 28 in Ilara, Ifedore council area of the state.

Gunmen Kidnap Pastor, Demand N2m Ransom

Some gunmen, July 6, abducted Christian cleric, Reverend Yusuf Magaga, with the Evangelical Church Winning All in Kauru LGA of Kaduna State. It was gathered that the kidnappers, who had established contact with his family, have demanded for N2m as ransom for his release. A resident disclosed that the cleric was kidnapped at about 2am after their village was attacked by suspected Fulani herdsmen. The people were able to mobilise for defence, but the assailants destroyed part of the ECWA church before taking away the pastor of the church.

Gunmen Abduct Expatriate Contractor in Lagos

A group of gunmen, July 4, kidnapped an expatriate engineer working with a construction company in the Epe area of Lagos state. The expatriate was kidnapped on the project site of the multi-million-naira dualisation of Epe-Ijebu expressway and rehabilitation of some strategic, arterial and inner-city roads in Epe LGA. Meanwhile, the State Police Command has launched a rescue operation which, it said, was directed at safely securing the release of the expatriate and arresting the perpetrators. Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the abduction of the expatriate.

Ondo Monarch Kidnapped in His Palace

The traditional ruler of Iyasan community in Irele LGA of Ondo State, Oba Abiodun Oyewunmi, was July 5 kidnapped by 10 men, who invaded his palace and took him away at about 10pm. The suspects, on arrival in the town, reportedly went straight to the palace of the Oba and whisked him away without any resistance from palace guards or family members. The kidnappers who came to the town through the Owena River were alleged to have been armed to the teeth and operated for over 30 minutes without any challenge. Chairman of the council, Sanmi Elumaro confirmed the kidnap of the monarch. N40 million ransom is being demanded by the abductors as ransom for his release. Police spokesman, Femi Joseph, who confirmed the abduction of the monarch said investigation has begun to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Medical Doctor Kidnapped in Aba

Security agents in Abia state have launched efforts to rescue a kidnapped Medical Doctor, Eze Nwokocha. Nwokocha, who is the Medical Director of Abia State Polytechnic, Aba, was kidnapped by unidentified gunmen around Howell Crescent in Aba as he was returning home from a meeting on July 3. Police spokesman, Ogbonnaya Nta, said that the incident was yet to be reported to police.

Kidnapper Arrested as he picks up N3m Ransom

Three suspected kidnappers were arrested by police detectives in Akwa Ibom State as the leader of the gang attempted to pick up N3 million ransom from relatives of a kidnap victim. The arrest was made at Olympus Hotel in Eket LGA. The suspects, Austin Agba, 35; Friday Sunday Paul, 23, and Christian Ekenu, 27, were paraded by the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo. However, leader of the gang, Agba, denied being a kidnapper but a middleman between pirates and the various fishermen groups operating along the Ibeno-Opobo water way. Police Public Relations Officer, Delia Nwawe, said they were members of the same gang, who were arrested following each suspect’s confessional statement.

Kidnapped PDP Chief Rescued in Abia

A chieftain of the Peoples Democracy Party (PDP) in Abia State, Ukpai Ukairo, who was kidnapped alongside two of his aides, has been rescued by the Abia State Police Command. Ukairo, who was abducted on June 30, along Isiala Ngwa section of the Enugu–Port Harcourt expressway, was returning to Aba with his driver and his personal assistant, when the gunmen blocked his vehicle and blindfolded them. However the victims regained their freedom on July 1 when the kidnappers left them at their hideout, giving the victims the opportunity to escape before they could return. Ukairo was said to have contacted the Police, who stormed the area and rescued them. Spokesman of the Abia State Police Command, Ogbonnaya Nta, who confirmed the incident, said two of the suspects had been arrested while a Toyota Avensis car belonging to Ukairo was also recovered from the gang.

Police Arrest Kidnap Kingpin in Aba

The Police in Aba, Abia State, have arrested one Kelvin Peter Harrison for kidnapping. Harrison accused of being a member of a cult group known as “Jemarial” was also alleged to be the kingpin of a kidnapping gang that has been terrorizing residents of Osisioma and its neighbourhood. He was arrested on a tip off by the police at Ogbodi village in Umuojima Community, Osisioma LGA.

Robbery

Robbers Chop off DPO’s Ear in Anambra

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) for Ajali in Orumba North LGA of Anambra State had one of his ears chopped off and was stripped naked for attempting to arrest members of a notorious armed robbery gang. The said DPO had led his team to the den of the nine-man gang that had been terrorising Nanka, also in Orumba North. Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, Awkuzu Okechukwu, said that following a raid on Nanka community, three notorious robbery suspects were arrested after previous attempts to arrest them failed. Parading members of the gang at the headquarters of the State Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Awkuzu Okechukwu disclosed that a team led by the DPO was ambushed at Nanka by the gang, when they went to effect the arrest. The police image maker added that the DPO, who narrowly escaped death, was receiving treatment in a hospital.

Suspected Car Thieves Arrested after RCCG Service

The police have arrested four suspected thieves for allegedly attempting to steal a Range Rover parked on the premises of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Lekki, Lagos on June 26. It was said that the suspects –Akin Ayotunde, 29; Emmanuel Oriye, 23; Happy Masikoro, 22 and 21-year-old Paul Ohiri– had gone for a Sunday service but left the prayer hall while the session was on to steal the vehicle owned by a church member. It was gathered that a church worker was patrolling the premises when he saw Ayotunde inside the car and challenged him. When the suspect could not give a satisfactory response, the worker reportedly alerted the church’s security men to the incident. The others, who reportedly took to their heels having realised that Ayotunde had been caught, were eventually caught and handed over to the police.

Police Smash Car-Snatching Syndicate, Recover Eight Vehicles

The Rapid Response Squad of the Lagos State Police Command has arrested two suspected members of a car-snatching syndicate. The RRS officials were said to have recovered eight stolen vehicles from the suspects, who reportedly stole vehicles in different parts of the state and transferred them to Abeokuta, Ogun State, where they repainted and resold them. It was learnt that some members of the syndicate had stolen a car within the Ikeja area of the state on June 30, and the car owner quickly alerted the police. The police tracked the vehicle down to a compound in Kobape, Abeokuta, the same night, leading to the arrest of the two suspects and the recovery of other vehicles. The suspects– Samuel Adebeshin and Adeyemi Kamoru–have reportedly confessed to the crime. The Lagos State police spokesperson, SP Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the arrest.

Suspected Armed Robber Mobbed, Burnt Alive in Delta

A suspected armed robber was mobbed and burnt to death on July 6 at Isoko quarters along Enerhen road in the Uvwie Council area of the state. The incident brings to five, the number of suspected hoodlums to have been set ablaze in less than a month in the state. The victim, in his early twenties, was said to be and a bus conductor. He was alleged to be a member of a five-man armed robbery gang terrorising residents of the area. The mob apprehended him after his gang had successfully snatched a commercial bus belonging to a police officer along Enerhen/Udu road of Uvwie. The suspect was apprehended when he reappeared in the area. He was said to have been stoned to a state of coma before he was set ablaze by the mob. About seven youths suspected to be members of the mob were later arrested by the Police.

Police Intensify Manhunt for Herbalist Who Treats Wounded Robbers

The police in Enugu State have intensified manhunt for one herbalist who allegedly treats wounded robbery suspects. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ebere Amaraizu, July 4, said that the herbalist treated a robbery suspect in his clinic at Orba in Udenu LGA of the state, without notifying the police. Police got wind of the herbalist’s activities after an armed robbery suspect, Ambrose Ugwu, was traced to his clinic. The police spokesman revealed that Ugwu was injured in a gun battle with operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), but escaped with the injuries. Ugwu was apprehended in the herbalist’s clinic, where he was treating bullet wounds on July 1, 2016. However, the herbalist was said to have escaped before the police stormed his clinic.

Police Parade 23 Robbery Suspects

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has paraded 23 armed robbery suspects, who have been terrorising the FCT and environs. Parading the suspects, the FCT Police Commissioner, CP Akali Baba Usman, disclosed that the suspects were apprehended between July 1 and July 5 in various operations. Items recovered include three pistols, seven cars and 31 live rounds ammunitions.

Car Snatching Syndicates Now Disguise As Evangelists

Commercial vehicle operators in Benin City, Edo state have raised the alarm over the rise in car snatching by criminals who pretend to be evangelists. One of the victims, a taxi operator, who was robbed of his car narrated that he was flagged down by three middle aged men with bibles along the Akpakpava street. They asked him to drop them at a church located on Jemide Street. But the passengers, later pulled out a gun and robbed him of his belongings. He stated that the thieves promised to drop his car after they had used it for their operation. Police spokesman, Abiodun Osifo, July 4, vowed that the command would apprehend those behind the new wave of crime.

Police Foil Armed Robbery on Enugu Market Women, Arrest 3

Three suspects allegedly terrorising market women and residents were arrested at Owere, Obukpa in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State by operatives of the Nsukka Division of the state police command. The suspects were arrested during a robbery operation. Guns were recovered from the suspects, identified as Vitus Agbo, Asogwa Sunday and Ugwu Uchenna. The trio had been on the police watch list following series of reports from victims in the community. It further revealed that their arrest followed the timely information from members of Neighbourhood Watch Group in the area, who equally assisted in making the arrests.

Gang Incidents

Two Killed, Several Injured in Ondo Street Carnival, Cults’ Clash

A street carnival in Ondo State turned tragic as two persons lost their lives in a fracas that ensued during the celebration. The incident, which took place on July 4, occurred during the celebration organised by some youths on Kogbona Street in Ondo city. The clash was the climax of an earlier confrontation between two rival groups but which was resolved by the intervention of some elders in the area. The carnival train was intercepted at a junction by suspected cultists, shooting indiscriminately. In the confusion, one Afusat Ayodeji was said to have been hit by a bullet and died on the spot. The death was said to have led to a free for all by rival cult groups which led to the death of another person while several others sustained injuries.

Drugs

NDLEA Seizes Cocaine from Tailor, Arrests 63 Suspects

A 46-year-old woman, Rita Godfrey, has been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for drug trafficking. The drug, packaged in a polythene bag, was intercepted at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos, during the screening of passengers from Spain. Another suspect, Adebayo Seriki (26), was said to have been apprehended at the airport with 2.1 kg of heroin on board an Ethiopian airline flight from Mozambique. Meanwhile, the NDLEA Commander at the MMIA, Ahmadu Garba, said 63 suspected drug traffickers were arrested at the MMIA between January and June, 2016, with 484.1 kg of drugs, comprising cocaine, heroin, cannabis, methamphetamine and other psychoactive substances.

Militancy/Maritime

Suspected Militants Blow-up Agip Pipelines in Bayelsa

Suspected Niger Delta militants, in the early hours of July 8, blew up the Tebidaba-Brass Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) pipeline. The Goulubokiri Manifold and Lasukugbene pipeline were also affected by the damage. Bayelsa state Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Desmond Agu, who confirmed the incident said men of the Command on surveillance exchanged gun fire with the vandals. Agu said that a gang of heavily armed youths with two double 200hp speedboats used explosives to blast three different points on the Tebidaba-Brass pipeline.

Avengers Bomb Chevron’s Oil Facilities Again, Attack Guards

The Niger Delta Avengers, July 6, attacked three oil manifolds belonging to Chevron Nigeria Limited around the creeks of Warri in Warri North LGA of Delta State. The militants blew up the facilities and reportedly opened fire on local surveillance youths, who had attempted to know what was happening following the explosions. The incident reportedly took place along the creeks of Ikparagbene community near Dibi Flow Station that was recently attacked by the militants.  The group’s spokesman, Mudoch Agbinibo, some residents and security agencies confirmed the incident.

Militants Blow Up Shell Pipeline in Delta

Niger Delta militants, July 7, blew up another oil facility suspected to belong to Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) around Ogidigben in Warri South West LGA of Delta State. The incident occurred along the Chanomi Creek around Ogidigben area. A community leader confirmed the explosion.

DSS Arrest Suspected Militants

The Department of State Security (DSS), July 1, disclosed that two members of the militant group, Niger Delta Avengers, had been arrested following intensified surveillance to forestall criminal activities in the region. The statement, signed by Tony Opuiyo, also said some members of the separatist Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as well as other criminal elements in different hideouts across the country, were also arrested in the operation which lasted throughout the month of June. The DSS said Christian ‘Sensor’ Oluba and Selky Torughedi, suspected to have ties with the Avengers were apprehended while plotting to launch an attack on an oil installation.

Navy Destroys Illegal Refineries in Delta State

Operatives of the Nigerian Navy ship, NNS Delta, June 2, destroyed illegal refineries with over 2,000 metric tonnes of stolen crude oil and equipment worth over N600 million. The security agents stormed Isele community in Benneth Island in Warri South West LGA of Delta State in a surprise operation that led to the razing down of the illegal refineries. The naval personnel said they discovered that the operators of the illegal refineries tapped a hose on a wellhead close to the area and siphoned crude oil directly into the storage tank from where it was transferred to the cooking points. The NNS Delta Base Operations Officer, Commander Shehu Tasie, said the operations were carefully planned to ensure the safety of residents of the area.

Ex-Militants Block East-West Road in Protest over Unpaid Stipends

Hundreds of ex-militants from Bayelsa and Delta States disrupted traffic for hours along the Mbiama-Yenagoa section of the east-West road as they protested against unpaid allowance for the amnesty programme. The ex-militants under the Presidential Amnesty programme were demanding immediate payment or they take over the road permanently. Heavily armed soldiers and other security personnel were at the scene of the protest to forestall any breakdown of law and order. In a similar incident, strategic streets in Benin City were blocked by another group of ex-militants also protesting against unpaid allowances. Commander of the special Joint Security Outfit in the Niger Delta, ‘Operation Delta Safe’, Rear Admiral Joseph Okojie, urged the ex-militants to be patient with the authorities, assuring that their stipends would be paid to them in due course

Militants Bomb NNPC Pipeline in Rivers State

Niger Delta Avengers, a militant group in the Niger Delta region July 5, blew up a Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) pipeline at Eleme, Rivers State. The militant group claimed responsibility for the attack, saying that its strike team 2 carried out a major attack, bombing NNPC pipeline leading to the Nigeria Liquefied National Gas (NLNG) from Eleme. The group had earlier warned that a major pipe was about to go up in flames in Brass Island, Bayelsa State. It also warned that any attack by the Nigeria Army might result to human casualties but the group did not want any life lost. Meanwhile, the Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force, another militant group has threatened to set seven flow stations ablaze in Bayelsa state.

Militants Blow Up NNPC, Chevron, NPDC Oil Facilities

The temporary cessation of hostilities in the Niger Delta region broke down as the Niger Delta Avengers blew up five oil and gas installations following its displeasure with the manner the Federal Government was managing and breaching the peace process. A source disclosed that the militants were angry as the Federal Government had commenced repairs of damaged facilities without making any plan to address the lingering issues. The militant group did not give any reason why it started fresh attacks, but confirmed in several tweets on its twitter handle that it blew up five different crude oil trunk lines and wells belonging to Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Chevron Nigeria Limited, and Nigeria Petroleum Development Company, NPDC in Delta State. Reacting to the resumption of hostilities, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), July 3, described same as regrettable, but criticized President Muhammadu Buhari, who it said did not take any practical step toward addressing the issues since he returned from his medical trip abroad.

Terrorism

Troops Kill 4 in Ambush against Boko Haram

Nigerian troops, July 3, ambushed and killed four Boko Haram terrorists in Kukawa LGA of Borno State. The troops also inflicted gunshot wounds on several fleeing terrorists and recovered 1, 440 litres of PMS and arms from the terrorists after a gun battle. Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col Sani Usman, confirmed that troops of 118 Task Force Battalion, 8 Task Force Division sprang a surprised ambush on some elements of Boko Haram terrorists suspected to be fleeing from the advancing troops of 119 Task Force Battalion presently mopping the general area of Kangarwa in Kukawa LGA. The troops killed 4 Boko Haram terrorists carrying logistics items. The troops recovered 48 Jerry cans containing 1,440 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) Automatic Gasoline Oil (AGO). Also recovered were “8 Motorcycles out of which 2 were destroyed, 21 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, 2 AK-47 rifles, an unprimed Improvised Explosive Device and a 36 Henagar Hand Grenade, as well as assorted drugs.

Troops Gun Down Female Suicide Bombers in Borno

Three female suicide bombers were, July 4, shot and killed in Monguno town, Borno State, as they were getting ready to attack some Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Army spokesman, Col. Sani Usman, stated that the bombers were targeting some IDPs who were fetching water at a borehole along Marte road, on the outskirts of the town. According to him, three female Boko Haram suicide bombers attempted to attack the IDPs but were detected by the vigilant troops and gunned down, with two dying on the spot. He regretted that the explosive they were strapped with exploded and injured two civilians nearby. The bomber, who took a different route, detonated at some distance before troops’ deployment along the same road in a bid to evade arrest.

Troops Kill Boko Haram Spy in Borno

Nigerian Army, July 5, said its troops ambushed and killed a Boko Haram spy carrying out surveillance for the group in Borno State. A statement by Col Sani Usman said that the patrol team of 157 Task Force Battalion, 7 Brigade ambushed and killed a Boko Haram spy at Barwati village, Kukawa LGA. The insurgent, who was on reconnaissance mission to infiltrate the troops’ position, was killed while trying to gain entry into military location. The team recovered 1 AK-47 rifle, 59 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, one 40mm x 46mm BGL2 grenade, 1 bandolier and 3 AK-47 rifle magazines.

Troops Kill Boko Haram Suspects in Clearance Operations

Troops of 8, 118 and 119 Task Force Battalions and Task Force Division of Nigerian Army have killed four Boko Haram terrorists and recovered 48 jerry cans of fuel and eight motorcycles in Kangarwa area of Borno State.  Spokesman of Nigerian Army, Col. Sani Usman, disclosed that during the clearance military operations, the troops also recovered arms and ammunition, including two AK-47 rifles and Henagar hand grenades. According to him, the Boko Haram terrorists were suspected to be fleeing from the advancing troops of 119 Task Force Battalion presently mopping up the general area of Kangarwa in Kukawa Local Council of Borno State. During the operation, the troops killed four Boko Haram terrorists carrying logistic items. The troops recovered 48 jerry cans containing 1,440 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Automative Gas Oil (AGO), 8 motorcycles, out of which two were destroyed.” He said other arms recovered include 21 rounds of 7,62mm (special) ammunition, two AK-47 rifles, an unprimed improvised explosive device and assorted drugs.

Six Killed in Boko Haram Suicide Attack in Borno Mosque

Six people were killed on July 8 when a suicide bomber blew himself up at a mosque in Damboa, Borno State. Army spokesman, Colonel Sani Usman, said the attack happened at about 5am when muslim faithful were out for their early morning prayers. According to him, the first suicide bomber targeted Damboa Central Mosque but due to stringent security measures he could not gain entry. He thereafter detonated his explosive near the central mosque. The second bomber veered off and gained entry into a smaller mosque and detonated the bomb, killing himself and six worshippers.

Air Force Strikes Boko Haram Location in Borno

The Nigerian Air Force says the Air Component of Operation Lafiya Dole has carried out air strikes on a Boko Haram location in Northern Borno. Director of Public Relations and Information, Group Captain Ayodele Famuyiwa, said the strikes represented another major success in NAF’s air campaign against the insurgents in Northern Borno. According to him, the latest strike is part of the air operations conducted by NAF in support of the efforts by own surface forces and the Multi National Joint Task Force. Famuyiwa explained that the location had been under surveillance even before the air strike, but was reported active by a NAF Beech Craft on Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) mission.

Political/Government Agencies

NAF Graduates 591 Recruits

A total of 591 recruits, July 2, passed out from the Ground Training Centre, Kaduna having successfully completed their initial 6-month military training to the Nigerian Air Force. A statement from Air Force headquarters disclosed that the new entrants into the Nigerian Air Force constitute the Basic Military Training Course 35/2016. The Course started early January 2016 with 596 intakes but 5 of them were dropped for various reasons and were unable to complete the training. The passing out recruits have all been assigned specialist trades and posted to NAF formations across the country pending the time they would be programmed for specialist training. The next batch of intakes; comprising 1250 recruits are expected to commence training on 25 July 2016 in line with the NAF recruitment projection for 2016. The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar urged the recruits to brace up for the challenges ahead in their call to duty.

Police Appoint Seven DIGs

Following the retirement of several Deputy and Assistant Inspectors General of Police, the Police Service Commission (PSC), July 4, approved the appointments of seven new Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs) to oversee the seven departments of the Nigeria Police Force. PSC spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, said the officers’ letters of promotion would be dispatched in due course. The officers and their new designations are: former Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mr. Shuaibu Gambo, now DIG, Department of Finance and Administration; Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr. Joshak Habila, now DIG, Department of Operations; and former Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr. Maigari Abbati Dikko, now DIG, Department of Logistics and Supply. Others include the Commissioner of Police H. M. Dagala – DIG, Department of FCIID; Emmanuel T. Inyang – DIG, Department of Training and Development; Ntom Chukwu, DIG, Department of Research and Planning, Folusho A. Adebanjo – DIG, Department of ICT; and Abdul Bube – AIG Force Secretary. The statement added that the appointments had been conveyed to the Inspector General of Police (IG), Mr. Ibrahim Idris, for implementation.

Murder/Assassinations

Playing 7-Year-Old Kills Maid with Father’s Gun

The Police in Abia State are investigating the death of a maid allegedly killed by a 7-year-old child with his father’s gun in Aba. The child was said to have picked the father’s gun from his bedroom, thinking it was a toy gun. She died before she could receive medical attention. Further details were not immediately available. Police spokesman, Ogbonnaya Nta, confirmed the death of the maid.

7 Die in Renewed Cross River Inter-Communal War

Seven people are feared killed in two days of fighting following renewed inter-communal hostilities between Inyima and Onyadama communities in Cross River State. The fighting erupted on July 5, with dangerous weapons being freely used by combatants from both sides. The two communities have been engaged in a conflict over a parcel of land since 2008, leading to the killing of many people and destruction of properties. In March, an entire village was razed in the conflict and when former Commissioner of Police in the state, Henry Fadairo, visited the place, his convoy was attacked by the fighters. The state’s police Public Relations Officer, Ms Irene Ugbo, said the state Commissioner of Police, Jimoh Obe, had ordered for the deployment of policemen to the area.

Ajimobi Places N5m Bounty on Lawmaker’s Killers

The Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, July 7, placed N5m bounty on the heads of the three gunmen who murdered a member of the state House of Assembly, Gideon Aremu, on July 1, 2016. The lawmaker, representing Orelope constituency, was until his death the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Public Relations and Security. He was killed in front of his house in Alakia area of the state as he alighted from his car to open his gate. Three gunmen on a motorcycle reportedly trailed him to his house and shot him after a brief argument. Special Adviser to the Governor on Communication and Strategy, Yomi Layinka, announced the reward for any member of the public with credible information that might lead to the arrest of the killers. The statement said that the governor appealed to members of the public in possession of any useful information to immediately contact the authority on two mobile telephone numbers with the assurances that the informant’s identity would be protected. The numbers are 0802 343 1079 and 0803 653 6581.

Driver Dies after NDLEA Assault in Kogi

A truck driver with a logistics company, Moruf Haruna, has died after he was allegedly kicked in the stomach by an officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the Abaji area of Kogi State. The 40-year-old Haruna was allegedly manhandled by the officer when an NDLEA team stopped his vehicle for a search in the Abaji area. Haruna and his colleague, identified only as Fatai, had left Lagos State on July 1 in two separate trucks conveying food products to Plateau State and Abuja, respectively. The NDLEA team had ordered Haruna to produce his papers, which he did, and afterwards asked him to open the truck for a search. Haruna was allegedly reluctant, during which one of the NDLEA officers, whose name had yet to be ascertained, kicked him in the stomach. He reportedly fell and taken to a hospital in Abuja for medical treatment for medical treatment, but he died on July 4. The NDLEA spokesperson, Mitchell Ofoyeju, said Haruna sustained injuries during the search – when he tried to resist the officers from doing their lawful duties.

Rape

30-Year-Old Man Rapes Neighbour’s Son

A 30-year-old man, Prince Ovibare, who allegedly defiled his neighbour’s four-year-old son, is being investigated by the Police in Lagos State. It was learned that the incident took place on June 28 after the boy returned from school. The boy, who emerged from Ovibare’s room when his mother called him, promptly reported to his mother what had transpired. According to the victim’s mother, the boy had gone out to play, but when she did not hear his voice, she quickly called out to him and he ran out from the neighbour’s room. When asked what he was doing there, he said that “brother Prince was kissing him and put his wee wee inside his bum bum”. Confirming the incident, Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, Dolapo Badmos, said the case was reported and that the boy was taken to Mirabel Centre by the mother and the IPO.

Police Gang of Rapists in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, July 2, paraded members of a three-man gang that specialised in hypnotising and raping of women in the state. Parading the suspects, James Etim, Utibe Archibong and Mberebong Peter, at the state’s Police Headquarters, Police spokeswoman, Cordelia Nwawe, said the suspects were arrested on June 11. The gang usually picked up victims by disguising themselves as commercial tricycle operators. The police spokesman, Nwawe, advised members of the public, particularly ladies, to be careful while boarding any tricycle within the state, and assured that the command would not relax until the state was rid of criminal elements.

Army Corporal to Serve 4 Years in Jail for Defiling 11 Years Old Girl

An army Corporal, Isah Ahmed, of the Nigerian Army Headquarters Garrison, has been sentenced to four years imprisonment for ‎defiling an 11-year old girl. The Supreme Court, in a unanimous judgment of five justices on July 5, upheld the conviction and four years jail sentence handed to the soldier by a General Court Marshal. The court held that the General Court Marshal and the Court of Appeal, Abuja division were right in convicting and sentencing him to four years’ imprisonment. Ahmed was arraigned in 2005 before the General Court Marshal on a one-count charge of defilement. He was charged with having carnal knowledge of the 11-year old girl between January 4 and March 5, 2005. Ahmed, who was said to be a neighbour and family friend of the victim, was said to have lured the girl into his apartment, in his wife’s absence, by asking the girl to buy soft drink for him.

Akwa Ibom Police Smash Rape Syndicate

Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested a three-man gang, which allegedly specialises in using tricycle to pick young women, hypnotised and rape them. It was learnt that the rape syndicate usually insert an object into their victims’ private parts, telling them they would die if they resisted being raped. Police Public Relations Officer, Cordelia Nwawe, July 3, said the gang was arrested on June 11, 2016 through intelligence gathering. The CP said the suspects, whose ages range from 21 to 27, were nabbed along Ifa Ikot Okpong Road within Uyo metropolis by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad and the State Criminal Investigation Department teams. The Police warned young girls to be cautious of tricycle they board within Uyo metropolis, particularly at night.

Others

Boss Shoots Housemaid in Kaduna

A housemaid, Mrs. Umu-l-kulsum Inuwa, has been shot for allegedly failing to attend to her boss’ wailing three-month-old baby on time. The boss, Alhaji Jamil Bala, reportedly shot the 35-year-old housemaid in the neck and breast on June 25 at his residence in Barnawa, Kaduna State. One of his guards in the house was also said to have been hit by the bullets. Inuwa was rushed to a private hospital where she was admitted. The matter was reported at the Barnawa Police Division, leading to Bala’s arrest. However, Bala denied that he shot the woman out of anger, saying he wanted to service his rifle when the bullets accidentally discharged. The District Head, Barnawa, Alhaji Kabir Zubair, said he intervened in the case and demanded that Bala should be arrested.

Imo CP Orders Arrest of Priests, Closure of Cathedral over DPO’s shooting

The Imo State Commissioner of Police, Taiwo Lakanu, has ordered the arrest of four priests and closure of the Catholic Cathedral in Ahiara, Mbaise, Imo State following a violent protest over who should be the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of the area. Also arrested were eight youths who were suspected to have participated in the shooting of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), of Ahiazu division, Danjuma Ragga. Ragga was injured by gunshots fired from the Cathedral when he led a team of police men to restore law and order in the area. There had been protests in the diocese for about three years following the appointment of Bishop Peter Okpaleke, by Pope Francis, as the bishop of the diocese. They are insisting that a priest from the area should mount the saddle and not Okpaleke, who hails from Anambra State.

EID-EL-FITRI: IGP Orders Massive Deployment of Police Nationwide

The Acting Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, July 3, ordered a massive deployment of Police personnel across country during the Eid el-Kabir celebrations. Idris directed that all Zonal Headquarters and Command Commissioners of Police should ensure adequate security in their areas of responsibilities throughout the duration of the celebration. He warned that officers should be deployed evenly to cover the highways, worship and recreation centres, government installations and all vulnerable points in order to give Nigerians feasible sense of safety and security as they celebrate the Eid-el-fitri and go about their lawful business. While assuring the nation that the Nigeria Police Force will provide adequate security with robust and proactive patrols during and after the celebrations, IGP Idris said it is his belief that the Nigeria Police Force under his watch will be people-oriented and problem solving Police and that nobody should be afraid to give useful information to the Police as every information will be treated with the confidentiality it deserves.

Bike Men on Riot as Police Van Crush Rider in Makurdi

Angry commercial motor cycle operators, July 3, burnt a police patrol vehicle in Makurdi, Benue State, after one of their members was allegedly crushed to death by a police car. It was learned that the police patrol team was on a routine assignment few metres from the Makurdi Federal Secretariat, when the vehicle accidentally knocked down the commercial motorcycle rider, who died instantly and his passenger, who got fractured. The people were angered by the fact that the police refused to take the victims to hospital despite being responsible for the accident. Few minutes later, sympathisers called officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, who took both the dead and injured to the hospital. The riot was quickly contained as a team of reinforcement policemen fired tear-gas canisters to disperse the angry youths. Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, who confirmed the incident, said peace had returned to the area.

Delta Poly Student is Found Dead

Delta State Polytechnic, Oghara, community has been thrown into confusion following the discovery of the dead body of a female student at the staff quarter’s junction. The student, simply identified as Toju, was found dead on July 2 with a handbag containing her personal items. A source revealed that the deceased, who resides in Benin with her parents, was found dead in the early hours of the day with whitish substance oozing from her mouth.

Youths Protest against Cultism, Vandalism, Others in Rivers

As attacks on oil facilities in the Niger Delta region continue, youths in Rivers State, July 5, stormed the streets of Port Harcourt in protest against the incessant vices and criminality in the area. The youths also protested against cult related killings, kidnapping and other social ills bedevilling the state. The youths under the platform of National Youth Council of Nigeria, Rivers State branch, expressed their discomfort with the crime rate in the state by marching from First Artillery through Azikiwe Road, Aba Road, in Port Harcourt with placards. Chairman of NYCN in Rivers State, Sukubo Sara-Igbe, said that the campaign was against the heartrending vices in the region, adding that there was need for peace in the region. Sara-Igbe said that the youths of the state were not comfortable with the rise in criminal activities and pipeline vandalism in the state and in the region.

Deputy Commissioner, 13 Others Suspended over Kuje Jail Break

The Civil Defence, Fire, Immigration and Prisons Services Board (CDFIPB), July 4, approved the suspension of a Deputy Commissioner of Prison (DCP), Mr. Musa Tanko, three senior officers and ten junior officers following the jail break at the Kuje Maximum Prison in the outskirt of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which led to the escape of Solomon Amodu and Maxwell Ajukwu, two high profile inmates standing trial for culpable homicide at the prison facility before the jail break are still at large. Public Relations Officer of the Prisons Service, Francis Enobore, said the suspension was sequel to the outcome of the preliminary investigation of the jail break.

Pregnant Woman, Five Others Killed in Abuja Transformer Explosion

A transformer at the Tundunwada area of Lugbe, a satellite town in the Federal Capital Territory exploded and killed six persons, including a pregnant woman on July 2. The transformer was on fire for about 10 minutes during which it sent devastating electric current to some residential apartments in the area. Findings indicate that the pregnant woman, whose name could not be immediately ascertained, wanted to switch off her fan when she was electrocuted. Her son was said to have raised the alarm which alerted her neighbours to her death. Another victim, Joseph Terva, was electrocuted as he was about stepping out of his apartment. Officials of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company have commenced investigation into the incident.

Review/Analysis

Kidnap/hostage cases maintained a top spot on the crime index. The security agencies put up spirited efforts to apprehend suspects and rescue hostages. This was seen in the case of a political party chieftain, who was kidnapped together with two of his aides. The victims regained their freedom10 days later when the kidnappers left them at their hideout, giving the victims the opportunity to escape before they could return. Massive arrest of criminal gangs and some other suspects were recorded. These incidents were prevalent in the south-south, south-east and south-west regions.

Robbery incidents took a soft pedal with few cases on record. The Rapid Response Squad of the Lagos State Police Command were able to arrest two suspected members of a car-snatching syndicate. The RRS officials were said to have also recovered about eight stolen vehicles from the suspects. All tributes should go to the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) for their effort in the arrest of suspects, vandals and gang leaders in parts of the south-west and south-south regions.

Terrorism, which had been on the rise in recent weeks, took a nosedive with just few incidents on record. Three female suicide bombers were shot and killed in Monguno town, Borno State, as they were getting ready to attack some Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), but were detected by the vigilant troops and gunned down, with two dying on the spot. Unfortunately the explosive they were strapped with exploded and injured two civilians nearby. The north-east region continues to bear the brunt of these cruel acts.

Every Nigerian and persons resident in Nigeria are charged to be security conscious. It is remains the responsibility of everyone to be a neighbourhood watch.