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Latest News: Training and recruitment is ongoing - Wednesday, 02 March 2011 22:54

Week 31

SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY


S/N

CATEGORY

MAJOR INCIDENTS

1

Kidnap/Hostage

10

2

Robbery

6

3

Gang

2

4

Drugs

1

5

Militancy/Maritime Incidents

4

6

Terrorism

3

7

Political/Government Agencies

1

8

Murder/Assassination

12

9

Rape Incidents

7

10

Others

3

Review/Analysis

Kidnap/Hostage Incidents

Police Arrest Fleeing Pastor Who Chained 9-Year-Old Son

The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of fleeing Pastor Francis Taiwo, of the Key of Joy Celestial Church, Ajibawo, Atan-Ota area of the state, who chained his 9-year-old son for weeks. Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, said the suspect was arrested on July 24, with the assistance of his church members. Taiwo had been on the run since police and officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) burst into his church on July 22 to rescue the victim, Korede. The victim’s stepmother had earlier been arrested by the police. Taiwo said he took the action because he believed his son was possessed with a ‘stealing spirit’. The Church has already distanced itself from the controversial pastor.

RCCG Pastor Kidnapped in Ikorodu

Yet-to-be identified gunmen, July 24, kidnapped a pastor of a Redeemed Christian Church of God parish in Ikorodu, Lagos, Kayode Bajomo. The pastor was preparing for the workers meeting when the kidnappers came in pretending to be members, but reportedly pulled out guns and whisked him away. According to a church member, Williams, the pastor was kidnapped at about 7am because the workers meeting always holds before the day’s service. A resident in the area lamented that kidnapping was now a daily occurrence in Isawo area in Ikorodu. He called on the Lagos State government and the police to find lasting solution to the menace. The RCCG Head, Media and Public Relations, Segun Adegbiji, confirmed the abduction. The kidnappers have demanded a ransom of N100m. The Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, had ordered the transfer of the case to SARS.

Gunmen Attack Ogun Community, Kidnap Landlords

At least two landlords have been abducted and three women reportedly raped in a renewed onslaught by some gunmen on residents of Ibafo, Ogun State. The armed hoodlums attacked Gideon village, Oke Cele and Asiwaju communities in Ibafo, unleashing mayhem on residents and carting away property. The gunmen were reported to have invaded homes and raped married women in front of their helpless husbands. Residents and community leaders, July 26, lamented that security agencies could not confront the militants, calling for military bombardment of the creeks. The Police Spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the kidnap incidents.

Woman Chases Kidnapper Riding Motorcycle, Rescues Daughter

Residents of Agbe Road in the Abule Egba area of Lagos State, July 27, chased a suspected kidnapper and rescued a little girl who was snatched from her mother. It was learnt that the mother of the two-year-old, immediately raised an alarm while chasing the kidnapper who attempted to flee with the girl on a motorcycle. Her cry got the attention of some pedestrians and motorcyclists, who also joined in the chase. They were said to have caught up with the 35-year-old suspect, identified only as Haruna, and beat him to a pulp before handing him over to the police. A motorcyclist in the area, who gave his name only as Saheed, said the suspect, while at speed, dropped the girl when he realised the woman and other motorcyclists were on his trail, but that did not pacify the mob, who were determined to get him. The child was walking beside her mother around 3pm when the suspect, who rode a motorcycle, suddenly grabbed her and sped off. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the incident.

Police Parade Kidnappers in Calabar

The Cross River State Police Command, July 26, paraded seven suspected kidnappers in Calabar. Police Public Relations Officer, Irene Ugbo, disclosed that one of the three suspects died from bullet injuries during exchange of fire with the police. According to her, two people were arrested for kidnapping, four for armed robbery while a student of the College of Education, Akamkpa, was arrested for unlawful possession of fire arms. The PPRO promised that the police would make the state uncomfortable for criminals.

Teenager Sells 18-Month-Old Baby for N300,000 in Enugu

An 18-year-old mother, Okike Ezinne, has sold her 18-month-old baby, Chisom Raphael, for N300,000 to a suspected child trafficker. Ezinne was arrested on July 27 by operatives of Central Police Station, Enugu. It was gathered that the Ezinne was lured by her friend, Promise Godwin, to Enugu under the pretext of finding her a job to enable her fend for herself and the baby. Police Public Relations Officer, Ebere Amaraizu, confirmed the arrest, adding that Promise Godwin had perfected plans to sell the baby to one Gloria Okafor, a child trafficker. Gloria Okafor revealed how she bought the child from Ezinne and Promise, but maintained that the child was later handed over to the buyer that same day. The buyer remains at large.

DSS Arrests Kidnappers in Military Uniform

The Department of State Security Service (SSS) in Kogi State said it has arrested at least 10 suspected kidnappers, including four, who operate in full military uniforms. The State Director of the DSS, Joseph Okpo, July 27, said the command, arrested four members of a six-man gang terrorising motorists on the Abuja-Lokoja highway. Okpo said the suspects confessed to some operations on the Maraba-Jos road, Malufashi on the Zaria-Kaduna and Jaji-Zaria road, in full military uniform, adding that they were apprehended on their way to link up with their colleagues in Obajana. The suspects, he said, were giving leads on the source of the military uniforms. He said that an on-the-spot search conducted on the suspects and their vehicle showed that they were in possession of a locally made pistol and long barrel gun. Other items recovered include, three pairs of army camouflage uniforms; seven pump action cartridges; a cutlass; 14 cell phones; cash and one green-coloured Gulf3 vehicle with registration number KWL 946 FB.

Police Arrest Housewife over Alleged Sale of Baby in Delta

Police detectives have arrested a 33-year-old housewife in Illah, near Asaba, Delta State for allegedly selling her two-year-old baby for N450,000 to a couple , residing in Lagos who had been married for several years  without a child. The suspect was arrested after a petition was filed at the station by her close friend who claimed she was short changed in the “deal” after she had introduced her to the couple. The woman was said to have taken a loan of N100,000 from a local daily contribution with interest and unfortunately, she could not pay the loan on the stipulated date, leaving her indebted of N300,000.

Bricklayer Abducts Two Children

A suspected child abductor, Ola Ibikunle, has been detained by the police after he was caught with a four-year-old girl in the Oyero area of Ijoko, Ogun State. It was learnt that Ibikunle, a bricklayer, had held his victim, Eniola, by the neck and was about to strangle her in an uncompleted building when he was caught by passers-by. The suspect, who confessed to have stolen a three-year-old boy and sold him for N1,500, was later handed over to operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). Eniola and her 11-year-old sister, Opeyemi, were following their father, Segun Quadri, to a church in Ijoko around 2pm on July 27 when the suspect ambushed the children and abducted Eniola. The victim’s sister, Opeyemi, reportedly raised the alarm which caught the attention of some passers-by. The suspect was reportedly met in an uncompleted building while trying to strangle the girl. An angry mob had beaten him up before the police arrived on the scene. The Ogun State acting Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Oyeyemi, said the suspect would be further investigated.

Police Rescue Chained 10-Year-Old Girl in Ogun

The Ogun Police Command has rescued another chained 10-year-old girl, Promise Udeh, at Adigbe area of Abeokuta. She was rescued on July 28 when neighbours alerted the police. The acting Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Oyeyemi, said she was allegedly chained by her aunt, Chiamaka Okafor, who accused her of stealing N4,000. Oyeyemi said Chiamaka is currently on the run but her husband, Sunday Okafor, has been arrested

Robbery

Man Fights Robbers with Bare Hands to Defend Wife

A middle-aged man, Viho Segun, fought some armed robbers that attacked his Lagos residence after they beat his wife to a pulp. Narrating his encounter with the robbers, he said after dispossessing him of his documents, phones and N15,000 at gunpoint, he was led into his flat with intention to collect more valuables from his family. He said at his flat, one of the suspect, Bashir Wasiu, 22, threatened to kill him in the presence of his children and wife if they failed to produce more valuables. When the wife refused to surrender what they wanted, Bashir smashed Viho’s head with a gun butt and beat the wife to a pulp. This infuriated him and he had to engage him in a fight before neighbours came to his rescue and seized his gun. Soon, men of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Lagos State Police Command arrived and arrested the suspect. The suspect, who was paraded on July 24, said that he belonged to a 3-man gang. Parading the suspect, alongside another from a 10-man, the Commander RRS, Superintendent Tunde Disu, said several items, including a gun, jewelleries, a laptop and 18 mobile phones were recovered from the suspects.

Police Nab 3 Armed Robbery Suspects

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested three members of a 6-man armed robbery gang. The suspects -Ifeanyi Okorie, Ejike Francis and Oboho Nuel, were arrested by operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) at the Ladipo area of Mushin. A pump-action rifle, a locally-made pistol and 13 unexpended cartridges were recovered from the suspects. Okorie, who confessed his involvement in armed robbery disclosed that the pump-action rifle belonged to the gang leader, Ebuka Mbajide, who remains at large. The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, who paraded the suspects, said investigation was ongoing into the matter.

SS2 Student Leader of Calabar Robbery Gang Arrested

The leader of an armed robbery gang that had been terrorizing residents of Calabar in recent times, has been arrested. Christian Donatus, alias Inyang, a 19-year-old Secondary School Student, was paraded by the police alongside one of his accomplices, Ubong Bassey Essien, while four other members of the gang are said to be on the run. According to the Cross River State Police Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, Irene Ugbo, Christian and his gang had been terrorising various parts of the city, raiding homes, shops and commuters and dispossessing them of their valuables. She said Christian and one of his members were arrested on July 16 by operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). Efforts have been intensified to track down those on the run.

Three to Die by Hanging for Armed Robbery in Delta

An Ogwashi-Uku High Court presided over by Justice A.O.Akpovi has sentenced two bus drivers, Okechukwu Mba, Christian Joseph and a conductor, Ekwe Nwomah to death by hanging for armed robbery. The court, July 27, convicted the three accused persons for the offence of conspiracy in count 1 and armed robbery in count IV and were each sentenced to death by hanging. Prosecutor, Martins Omakor had told the Court that the accused, had on the 13th of July, 2007 committed series of armed robbery operations at Kwale junction, Ogwashi-Uku by invading the houses of persons and robbing them of monies and valuables while armed with guns. Nemesis caught up with them when they ordered the occupants of one the houses they visited to open the door but unknown to the robbers, the occupant was a Police Inspector, who opened gun fire at the robbers when they tried to force their way into his apartment, leading to their arrest.

NSCDC Nabs Suspected Robber in Ekiti

Operatives of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have arrested a robbery suspect at the Jokotayo area of Adebayo in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital. The Commandant of the Ekiti Command of NSCDC, Donatus Ikemefuna, July 26, said the four-man robbery gang had stormed the area and moved from one house to the other to rob residents of their money and valuables during the midnight operation. The suspects, who according to Ikemefuna invaded the area on a motorbike, parked at the entrance of one of the houses before the arrival of his men after receiving a distressed call. Disclosing that the robbers fled the scene upon realising that his men had cordoned off the area, he said double barrel guns, machetes, axe, torch light and other arms were recovered from the only culprit that was arrested at the robbery scene. He said the suspect was immediately handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.

Police Arraign Tricycle Rider, Friend for Robbery

Two suspected robbers, Mojeed Ogooluwa (36) and Toheeb Waheed (30), have been arraigned before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court, Lagos. It was gathered that the suspects specialised in snatching cars at gunpoint in Lagos and Ogun states. It was learnt they were arrested at their hideout in the Ketu area of Lagos, while two Toyota cars were recovered from them. The suspects were apprehended by the police sometime in May. Ogooluwa identified his other gang members, who are at large, as Idowu, Tobalashe, Lekan Texas, Agu, and K2. Waheed, in his statement to the police, said he joined the gang in March 2016 following the demolition of his shop in Ibadan, Oyo State. Adjourning the matter till August 1, 2016, the presiding magistrate, Mrs. O. Olanipekun, directed that the case file should be sent to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions for advice. She added that the defendants should be kept in prison custody.

Gang Incidents

Cultists Stab Man to Death in Lagos Festival

A 34-year-old man, Mutiu Edunjobi, was, July 24, stabbed to death during the annual Egungun ceremony in Isheri, Magodo area of Lagos State. Edunjobi was said to have been lured to the party by suspected cultists, who had plotted to kill him for being sympathetic to a rival cult group. A fight broke out between rival cult groups at about 8pm, during which dangerous objects were reportedly used. In the process, the father of two was allegedly stabbed in the neck by one Kehinde Lawal, a suspected cultist. When news of Edunjobi’s attack went round, youths in the area reportedly went berserk as they attempted to carry out jungle justice on his assailant and members of his cult group. Eyewitnesses said the angry youths stormed the assailant’s residence at 5, Ajegunle Street, Isheri and threatened to set it ablaze but for the intervention of policemen.

Police Inspector, 2 Others Shot as Gunmen Invade Lagos Community

Yet-to-be-identified gunmen, July 23, attacked Fatoki community in the Igando area of Lagos State and unleashed terror on the residents. The gunmen were said to have attempted to abduct a wealthy man in the area but the man escaped. This infuriated the gunmen, who began shooting at anyone in sight. A Police Inspector and other people were shot in the mayhem. It was gathered that the community sent a distress call to the Police who stormed the place and engaged the militants in a gun battle that lasted for about two hours. The gunmen later es­caped through Totowu Waterways, abandoning some of their guns. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the incident and said two persons in­cluding a Police Inspec­tor were shot.

Drugs

NDLEA Arrests 50 Almajiri Drug Pushers in Kano

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced the arrest of 50 street beggars, otherwise called almajiris for drug pushing in Kano. NDLEA’s Commander, Hamza Umar, disclosed this on July 23 at a policy dialogue forum on drug abuse among youths. He added that investigations have shown that more idle children are being recruited to sell drugs in the city. Majority of the arrested beggars, who are within the age bracket of between 9 and 12 years, confessed to the crime, claiming they were paid N300 daily by the dealers. The agency warned the public to be weary of a locally concocted psychotropic drug commonly found among youths in the state. The NDLEA boss lamented the increasing rate of youths and married women’s involvement in addiction drugs, warning parents and guardians to be conscious of their children’s upbringing.

Militancy/Maritime

Pirates Kill NSCDC Personnel in Bayelsa

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has confirmed that pirates ambushed and killed one of its officers in Southern Ijaw Council Area of Bayelsa. NSCDC Commandant in the state, Desmond Agu, who confirmed the incident on July 23, said that the command had recovered the remains of the deceased operative. He said the operatives were on a surveillance duty at Ogbobiri community in Southern Ijaw LGA on July 22 and were attacked while returning. The commandant said that the pirates would not go unpunished, and commended his men for rising to the occasion as the gunmen also suffered casualties.

Militants Blow Up NNPC Gas Pipeline in Akwa Ibom

The Niger Delta Avengers has claimed responsibility for the attack on a gas pipeline belonging to Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), in Obotim Nsit, Nsit Ibom LGA of Akwa Ibom State. Local villagers said that the attack on the NNPC gas pipeline located at Ikot Okukuk Nsit Junction in the council, occurred on July 25. A statement by the spokesperson of the Avengers, Mudoch Agbinibo, said the facility was blown up at about 11:30pm.

EFCC Arraigns 5 Suspected Oil Thieves

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) July 26 arraigned five suspected oil thieves, Sokari Iminabo;  Segun Olagunju;  Uche Emmanuel, Obinna Ezinne and Tiny Patience before Justice I. Watilla of the Federal High Court, sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on a two-count charge bordering on illegal dealing in petroleum products. According to the spokesperson of the EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, the suspects were arrested on 26 April, 2016, at Anyako Waterside in Sama Community, Asari Toru LGA of Rivers State by troops of the 130 Battalion of the Nigerian Army. At the point of arrest, the suspects were in possession of a locally constructed metal tank, housed in a Man Diesel truck to convey illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO) concealed in poultry feeds. They pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them. Justice Watilla admitted them to bail in the sum of N2 million each and two sureties each in like sum.

Military Raids Arepo Vandals Hideout

Many people were, July 28, killed as the Military commenced bombardment of Iroko creeks in Arepo area of Ogun State, suspected to be inhabited by militants. The bombardment, it was gathered, was carried out by the Military and police. It was gathered that some helicopters were sighted hovering around the creeks, followed by sporadic gunshots, which jolted the militants. Some of them were said to have hid inside the river. Residents of Elepete area, who apparently thought it was another attack from militants, scampered for safety.

Terrorism

Army Ambush, Kill 2 Boko Haram Members in Sambisa

Troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE ambushed Boko Haram terrorists crossing into Sambisa forest from Komala and Musafanari axis with logistics items. Army spokesman, Colonel Sani Usman, July 24, said that the attack was carried out in the early hours of the morning. According to him, the ambush party killed 2 Boko Haram terrorists, while 2 soldiers sustained gunshot wounds. The wounded have since been airlifted and are receiving treatment at a military medical facility. The troops also recovered 2 AK-47 rifles with registration numbers 565214175 and 5-65399 respectively, 4 AK-47 rifle magazines fully loaded, 25 litres of petrol, as well as assorted food items. They also recovered a motorcycle and 2 bicycles amongst other items from the terrorists.

Five Missing Soldiers Found

Five of the 19 soldiers, who went missing after an ambush by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State have been found, the Nigerian army has said. The military launched a search for the troops after they went missing on July 21 during a military operation in the town of Alagarno in Borno state. A total of three officers and 16 soldiers were initially declared missing following the ambush at Guro Gongon, in Borno State. The soldiers were returning to base after a patrol operation when they ran into the ambush. Army spokesman, Sani Usman, said that five of the soldiers had been found, including the unit’s commanding officer. They were immediately moved to medical facilities for medical care. He added that the other 14 are still unaccounted for.

Shehu of Bama’s Wife, Daughter Regain Freedom after Two Years in Captivity

The Wife and the daughter to Shehu of Bama, Alhaji Kyari Ibn Ibrahim Elkanemi, abducted by Boko Haram insurgents two years ago, have regained their freedom. Sources said when the General Officer Commanding 7 Division, Nigeria Army, Brig. Gen. Victor Ezugwu, brought the Queen and her daughter to Shehu of Bama in Maiduguri, on July 24, some relations wept with joy. Queen Hajju was abducted in 2014 along with two of her children during deadly attacks on Bama town, which was later taken over by the insurgents. Unfortunately, her son was killed by the insurgents, leaving her daughter and her in Boko Haram captivity, before troops rescued them during their operations around Damboa axis within the week.

Political/Government Agencies

UN Suspends Humanitarian Assistance in North East

The United Nations has suspended its humanitarian assistance mission in the North East epicentre of Boko Haram terrorism following a bloody attack on humanitarian convoy by the Boko Haram insurgents, which left several officials of aid groups seriously wounded. The suspension would be in place pending the review of the security situation in the north-east. A statement issued by the UN reacting to the attack said unknown assailants, July 28, attacked a humanitarian convoy that included staff from UNICEF, UNFPA and IOM. The troops, however, successfully cleared the ambush and exploited up to Afunori. Two soldiers and three civilians were wounded in the ambush, among who were staff of United Nations agencies and other international humanitarian organizations.

Murder/Assassinations

Family Feeds Day-Old Baby to Dog

A family of five has been arrested by the police in Katsina state for allegedly feeding a day-old baby boy to a dog as meal. It was gathered that the incident happened at Saika village in the Batsari LGA of the state. The police gave the names of the suspects as Wosila Halilu (15), who is the mother of the baby; Wosila’s step brothers, Muhammadu Bello (45), Musa Bello (35), Umar Bello (27); and her mother, Faiza Umar (30). It was gathered that a 27-year-old farmer, Musa Garba, alleged to have impregnated Wosila, was equally arrested for allegedly raping her. Trouble started for the family when Wosila gave birth to the baby boy after being allegedly impregnated by the farmer. It was gathered that Wosila’s mother and the stepbrothers held a meeting where it was decided that the baby boy should be fed as a meal to a dog. The village head reported the incident to the police, leading to the arrest of the family members and the farmer.

Community Protest Murder of Monarch

Irate indigenes of Barako community in Gokana LGA of Rivers State, July 23, took the corpse of Chief Levi Korgbara to headquarters of the Rivers Police Command to protest the alleged connivance of police officers in a communal crisis that has claimed eight persons. Korgbara was killed by unknown gunmen on July 22 on his way to honour the invitation of Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Kpor, for peace talks with others chiefs from the warring community, Nwebiara. This killing sparked tension in the area with indigenes taking his remains to the police headquarters. The officers in charge of the Police Control Room assured the community that investigations into the killing and other incidents in the area would commence soonest. At the police headquarters, Kimanyieke Kesiop, one of the community leaders, said the community was not happy with the involvement of police in the situation. Police Public Relations Officer, Nnamdi Omoni described the death as mysterious.

Hoodlums Kill 70-Year-Old Truck Driver over N5,000

Some suspected hoodlums have killed a 70-year-old truck driver, Jerry Akinsola, in the Iyana Ipaja area of Lagos State. It was gathered that the man was attacked on July 26 at after his truck broke down. They were said to have demanded the payment of N5,000 for owo omo taku (breakdown fee) from the septuagenarian, who pleaded that he did not have the money. The men were said to have hit him with an iron rod on the head before smashing his head on a concrete. He reportedly collapsed in the street as blood gushed out from his head and nostrils. He died on the spot. Two of the suspects were, however, apprehended by people in the area and were subsequently handed over to the police. Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos confirmed the incident.

10 Feared Killed by Herdsmen in Benue

At least 10 persons were, July 25, killed in Gaambe-Tiev in Logo Local Council of Benue State by suspected Fulani herdsmen. Several others were reported missing and many others left with injury. A resident disclosed that the attack took place in Adayohor village along Uver-Gov Sevav Road. Most of the victims, who were hacked with machetes were attacked on their way to the farm located around Adayohor. A member of Benue State House of Assembly representing Logo Constituency, Kester Kyenge, lamented the killing of his people. He urged the state government to be responsive to the people’s carnage by deploying enough security operatives to halt the killings, noting that the attacks on the community are too many.

3 Killed as Yoruba, Hausa Residents Clash in Lagos

Three persons were, July 26, killed during a shootout between hoodlums and some officers attached to the Federal Operations Zone A Ikeja, of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), at White Sand community in Ijora Badia area of Lagos State. Three others also sustained gunshot injuries. Trouble started following a clash between Hausa and Yoruba residents over accusation by the latter that the former had been terrorising the area. A resident, Tajudeen Shamsudeen, explained that a boy, identified as Ojo, said to be on his way home, was allegedly stabbed to death by some Hausa boys. The attack on Ojo, according to him, sparked a riot during which dangerous weapons were freely used by both parties. But for the timely arrival of policemen from Ijora Badia, the situation would have assumed a violent dimension. 10 persons were said to have been arrested in connection with the unrest. Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, said only one person died, while two others were recuperating in the hospital.

Lagos Landlord Kills Tenant

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a landlord, Gbade Metibemu, for allegedly stabbing his tenant, Bright Abraham, to death. Metibemu, July 21, attacked the 35-year-old tenant with a knife for refusing to vacate his plank apartment after a week-long disagreement. The suspect allegedly rushed to the Adekunle Police Station to report that he had been injured by his tenant. He was, however, detained when news filtered in that Abraham had died at the hospital where he was taken to for treatment. Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the incident, adding that the suspect had been transferred to the State Department of Criminal Investigation and Intelligence, Yaba

Gunmen Kill 85-Year-Old Imam

Residents of Halleluyah Quaters in the Ibafo area of Ogun State have been thrown into mourning after some gunmen attacked the community and killed an 85-year-old Islamic cleric, Kareem Olaiya. During the two hours raid of houses in the community on July 25, a landlord, Scott Odum, was also abducted after his property was looted. The Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, said that the police were not aware of the attack.

Man Stabs Friend to Death

A 32-year-old father of two, Gbenga Olorunsola, has been killed by his friend, Damilare Adenuga, after an altercation between the two at a drinking joint on Kayfarm Estate, Iju-Ishaga, Lagos, degenerated into a scuffle. The 28-year-old Adenuga, was a guard on the estate, while the deceased worked there as an electrician. It was learnt that the suspect was sacked sometime in May 2016, due to his alleged unruly behaviour and warned not to come to the estate. Adenuga, however, visited the estate on July 24 and went to a joint to drink with his friends. As the fun was on, Olorunsola arrived at the joint and was said to have questioned Adenuga on his presence on the estate. This led to a fight during which Adenuga stabbed the deceased. The deceased died shortly after he was rushed to a hospital. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, said the suspect would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department in Panti, Yaba for further investigation.

Gunmen Storm UniJos VC’s Home, Kill One

Gunmen, July 28, invaded the private residence of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Sebastian Maimako, in Eto Baba area of Jos North LGA of Plateau State, killing one person. Though the intruders were not able to gain entrance into the building, two guards found in the compound were shot, while one person is receiving treatment in a hospital in Jos, the second person was said to have died as the result of incident. A policeman was also wounded, while his gun was taken away. Maimako took over as the Vice Chancellor of the institution over a month ago amidst controversy.

Cultists Kill Retired Police Officer, Son in Makurdi

Suspected cult members, in the early hours of July 28, killed a retired police officer, Daniel Akogwu and his son in Makurdi, the Benue State capital. The deceased was killed with his son, by a factional cult group of which one of his sons was allegedly a member, but was on the run before the incident. The suspected cultists invaded the deceased’s residence located off David Mark bye-pass in search of Akogwu’s son, who was an alleged member of the cult group. It stated further that the cult group attacked his father and brother, as their target was not at home when they launched the attack. Confirming the report, the state police spokesman, Moses Yamu, said a retired police officer, Daniel Akogwu and his son Oche Akogwu, were actually shot dead by suspected cult boys. Yamu said no arrest has been made, but that investigation into the matter had commenced in earnest.

1 Killed, 20 Arrested In Suspected Cult Clashes

One person was reportedly killed in suspected students’ cult clashes in Ikere-Ekiti. The clashes, which cause could not be ascertained, have created tension in the community with many people now living in fear. Following the development, no fewer than 20 suspects were said to have been arrested by the community’s vigilante group, which handed them over to the police. The development led to the beef up of security in the community. The traditional ruler of Ikere, the Ogoga, Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado, said one person had been killed so far in the clashes. Some residents, however, claimed that no fewer than five persons had been killed so far, saying that most of the victims were hacked to death in Araromi area of the town.

SARS Policeman Shoots Motorist Dead

A trigger-happy policeman in Kano State has killed a patent medicine dealer, identified as Tochukwu Iro. It was gathered that 42-year-old Tochukwu was shot on July 27 by the policeman, said to be from the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) because the deceased refused to stop when ordered to do so.  The Chairman, Igbo Traders Welfare Association, Kano State, Chief Emmanuel Amadi, said Tochukwu died 24 hours after he was shot. Amadi stated that the protesting youths wanted the police to investigate the shooting and bring the offender to book. The Kano State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Magaji Majia, disclosed that the State Commissioner of Police had ordered the arrest and detention of the team leader and his men.

Rape

Man in Court over Assault of Eight-Year-Old Girl

A 28-year-old driver, Nnamdi Ikunor has been arraigned before a Lagos Magistrates Court sitting in Ikeja for unlawful and indecent assault of an eight-year-old girl. Ikunor is facing a two-count charge of defilement before Magistrate Bola Osunsanmi. The Prosecutor, Inspector Simon Imohnwa, told the court that the defendant committed the offence on July 7 at Adidas village in Ajegunle, Apapa, Lagos when he inserted his finger into her vagina. Inspector Imohnwa informed the court that the offence committed is punishable under section 137 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State 2011.

Police Inspector Rapes 15-Year-Old Girl at Gunpoint

A police inspector attached to Mkpat Enin Police Division in the Mkpat Enin LGA of Akwa Ibom State has allegedly raped a 15-year-old girl at gunpoint. The victim, July 26, said that she was returning from church on July 21 when a police team accosted her. She explained that the inspector raised the gun, cocked it and pointed it at her, saying if she resisted, he would shoot her. He allegedly led her away from other members of the team to a dark area along the road where he fondled her breasts and raped her, threatening to shoot her if she cried out. She further disclosed that the policeman then dragged her to the police station and detained her for four day before her uncle, Dr Ime Stephen, came to bail her with N10,000. The state Police Commissioner, Murtala Mani, said the police had already commenced investigation into the case. Mani explained that all the policemen that were on patrol from the station at the time were in detention.

Landlord Arrested for Defiling Six-Year-Old Girl

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a 60-year-old man, Mayegun Alani, for allegedly defiling a six-year-old girl. Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, said that the suspect was arrested after the victim’s mother reported him to the police. Adejobi said the suspect confessed to the police that he had been raping the minor for a month before he was caught. The police were informed by the mother of the victim, who noticed something strange about the girl whenever she was taking her bath. The mother asked the little girl some questions which gave a clue that the landlord was responsible for her defilement. Initially, he denied the allegation, but later confessed that he had been committing the act for at least a month. The Assistant Inspector -General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Abdulmajid Ali, had directed that the case be transferred to the Department of Criminal Investigation and Intelligence of the command for investigation.

Man Rapes Seven-Year-Old in Search of Missing Voucher

A trader in FESTAC Town, Lagos, Ikechukwu Alu, was, July 27, arrested by the police for the alleged abduction and rape of a seven-year-old girl. It was learnt that the victim had been sent on an errand to buy a recharge card voucher, which she lost. On getting home, she was reportedly chased out to look for the recharge card during which the 25-year-old suspect abducted her and took her to a shop in a nearby market, where he raped her. But as he left the shop around 5am the following day, some residents around the area saw him, with Victoria strapped to his back. The residents, who are aware Alu does not have a child, reportedly queried him on how he came about the girl. When he could not give a genuine explanation, they were said to have poured ashes on him and alerted the police. A test carried out on her confirmed that she was raped.

Ogun Teacher Caught Sexually Abusing Student

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a school teacher, Matthew Sodeke, for alleged child abuse in the Sango Ota area of the state. Sodeke was caught sucking the penis of a 16-year-old student after school hours. The teacher was reportedly caught on July 12 by a parent who had come to pick his child in the school. The matter was thereafter reported at the Sango Police Division, and Sodeke was arrested. A parent, identified only as Shokoya, who claimed to be a witness, said the teacher was beaten up by a mob before he was taken to the police station. The student confessed that his penis had been sucked by the teacher on several occasions. Police spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the incident, adding that the suspect had been charged to court.

Police Nab Two over Gang Rape of Minor

The Ebonyi State police command has arrested two suspected rapists, Monday and Nweke, after they allegedly gang raped a 13-year-old girl. The suspects accosted the victim at Egu Uhuo village, Ezzagu Community in Ishielu LGA of the state while returning from the market and demanded for sex. They threatened to kill her for refusing their request and dragged her into an uncompleted building where they allegedly drugged and raped her. Police Public Relations Officer, George Okafor, said the suspects would be arraigned after investigation. He charged parents to monitor the movements of their children and give them proper upbringing to avoid immoral acts.

Man Rapes Church Member after Birthday Party

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 31-year-old man, identified only as Damilola, for allegedly raping a 25-year-old woman at the Ojodu area of the state. The victim and Damilola were members of the same church, and the woman had invited the suspect to her birthday party on July 19. The victim was later invited by the suspect to his house for her birthday gift. It was on this visit that the suspect raped the victim. She immediately reported the matter to the Police and Damilola was arrested. The incident was also reported at the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team, Alausa. The DSVRT Coordinator, Lola Vivour-Adeniyi, said the victim had been taken for medical tests. Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the arrest, adding that the matter had been transferred to the police gender unit.

Others

Naval Rating Flees after Stabbing Man in Ekiti

The Ekiti State Police Command is investigating a case involving a naval rating, Ojo Amugiri, who allegedly stabbed one Tayo Ayeni in the Iworo area of the state. It was learnt that Tayo was returning home on his motorcycle when he was attacked by the rating and his brothers after an argument. The rating allegedly rushed inside his house and brought out a knife with which he stabbed the victim. The naval rating fled the community after the matter was reported to the police. He later submitted himself to the police after his mother was arrested. Amugiri, who was released to get money for the treatment of the victim, absconded again and had since refused to return to the community and his whereabouts remain unknown.

Driver, Conductor Die in Inferno as Fuel Tanker Explodes

A tanker driver and his conductor were, July 25, burnt to death as their 33,000-litre capacity diesel laden truck went up in flames at Cele Bus Stop, Lagos. It was gathered that in the driver’s bid to control his truck, another truck rammed into it from behind, causing it truck to somersault. The impact caused an explosion, which resulted in a fire with the content spilling into drainage around the scene. The raging fire, spread to the entire expressway, hampering the free flow of traffic on both sides. Lagos State Fire Service Director, Rasaq Fadipe, disclosed that six fire trucks were drafted to the scene.

Gunmen Sack Lagos Estate, Shoot Three Policemen

Gunmen, July 26, attacked Pacific Estate at the Igando area of Lagos State and engaged security operatives in a gun battle for about seven hours. During the encounter, three policemen attached to the Igando Police Division and two residents were injured. The gunmen had invaded the community around 6am through the waterways behind the estate. They were said to have looted some shops on the estate. It was learnt that when the matter was reported at the Igando division, a police team was deployed in the area around 8am. The policemen were said to have engaged the bandits in a gun battle. Although one of the policemen was shot in the head, the police said he survived the attack and was receiving treatment in a government hospital. Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, said the police had yet to make any arrest, but normalcy had been restored to the area.

Review/Analysis

Murder and Assassination incidents stayed at the top with gory cases of killings across the regions of the country. Alarming is the case of a family feeding a day-old baby to the dog in Katsina State. Also on record were cases of aged persons being killed on cold blood, while cult violence, communal clashes and invasion by herdsmen claimed scores of lives, including a traditional ruler, who was murdered on his way to honour a police call. Friends turned killers, as a landlord took the life of his tenant in feats of rage. Sad is the case of a law enforcement officer, who duty is to protect lives, but rather chose to take one, yet in a feat of rage. These killings were recorded in nearly all regions of the country.

Kidnap/hostage cases took a new dimension as parents and guardians have turned against children that they were meant to love and protect. Two incidents of parents chaining their children were on record just as a two mothers also planned the sale of their babies. In another incident, a brave mother raised the alarm and chased a kidnapper, who stole her daughter. The child was rescued unhurt and the suspect was apprehended. These incidents were recorded across the country.

Rape cases, especially of minors, is alarmingly becoming a trend in the society. In recent times, rapists have turned their fury on innocent children, who are threatened with death should they reveal what transpired. Trusted neighbours, relatives, caregivers and teachers, have variously been pointed out as culprits. But rape took a new dimension this week when a policeman on duty satisfied his sexual craving by raping a 15-year-old girl at gunpoint, and even got the audacity to arrest and detain her for days, releasing her only upon the payment of N10,000 for bail. How low can rape get!

Armed robbers met stiff resistance from security agents, as they made several arrests of suspects in various operations. A man, infuriated by the assault on his wife by armed robbers, who had robbed him, bravely took on the suspects, fighting them with his bare hands, and ensuring that one of the suspects was apprehended. A court in Delta State also sentenced suspects to death for armed robbery. These were witnessed in the south-west and south-south regions of the country.

Terrorism remained on the low as the military continues its offensive to completely wipe out the terrorists in the north-east region of the country. The wife and daughter of a monarch, who were abducted nearly two years ago by Boko Haram insurgents, returned home amidst cheers from the palace and the subjects. Various calibres of arms and ammunition were recovered, while the military maintains its vow to continue its operations and keep the country and residents safe.

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