Villeworth Security Services Ltd

Week 35

SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY

S/N	CATEGORY	MAJOR INCIDENTS
1	Kidnap/Hostage	11
2	Robbery	5
3	Gang	1
4	Drugs	1
5	Militancy/Maritime Incidents	4
6	Terrorism	6
7	Political/Government Agencies	1
8	Murder/Assassination	12
9	Rape Incidents	3
10	Others	1

Kidnap/Hostage Incidents

Police Rescue 13 Children, 15 Adults Chained in House in Lagos

The Lagos State Police Command, August 21, rescued 28 persons, including 13 children and 15 adults that were chained and locked up by one Emmanuel Adeyemi at the Oke-ira area of Ojodu. The State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, acting on a tip-off, had deployed operatives to the scene. Although the initial intelligence report was that a teenager was chained in the house, a search of the residence revealed 27 others apart from the 17-year-old Toba Adedoyin. Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the incident. The initial victim was allegedly chained by Adeyemi, who claimed to be his father, in order to restrain him from going out. A suspect has been arrested. Detectives had also discovered shallow graves in the house and in the swamp behind the house.

Wife of Ogun Council Chairmanship Candidate Abducted

The wife of a chairmanship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming October 8 election in Ogun State, Mrs. Kudirat Balogun, has been abducted. She was abducted at her home on August 22 by four gunmen from her residence. Kudirat’s husband, Gafar Balogun, is running for the chairmanship seat of Ewekoro LGA of the state and was not around when the gunmen struck. Kudirat’s husband said he had reported the case at the Lafenwa Police Station, from where it was transferred to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). As of the time of filing this report, the abductors had yet to contact the family. Acting Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Oyeyemi, confirmed the incident.

Hotelier Abducted on Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway

The proprietor of Gado Hotel in Umuahia, Abia State, Udo Okenwa, has been abducted by some gunmen on the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway. It was learnt that the hotelier was abducted on August 19 at Ubakala, a few kilometres away from Umuahia in Abia State, while he was returning home in his car. The gunmen shot into the air, forced the driver to disembark and whisked away Okenwa in his car. The Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, Ogbonnaya Nta, confirmed the incident. He said the police had launched a manhunt for the abductors with a view to rescuing the victim unhurt.

Police Arrest Kidnappers of Bayelsa Lawmaker’s Father

Two persons have been nabbed in connection with the alleged abduction of Chief Watson Iti, the 81-year-old father of a lawmaker in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Alfred Watson. The lawmaker carried out personal investigations that resulted in the arrest of the suspects. Watson, who reportedly uncovered evidence linking the suspects to the abduction, was said to have arrested the suspects with the aid of some youths and handed them over to the police. The suspects were said to have been taken to and detained at the state Criminal Investigation Department of the police where they were reportedly making confessional statements. The octogenarian, a chief in Okpoama, was abducted August 5 by gunmen who operated on a speedboat. The octogenarian was seized by his captors while conveying the remains of his wife from Okpoama mortuary to Egweama for burial.

Mother and Son Arrested for Stealing Baby

Operatives of the Imo State Command, August 23, arrested a woman and her son for allegedly stealing a day-old baby from a maternity in Isiala Mbano Council Area of the state. Parading the suspects, Ngozi Anyanwu and Goodluck Anyanwu, the state Commissioner, Taiwo Lakanu, said though the child, was abducted the same day he was born, the response system put in place by his command ensured he was recovered from his kidnappers from their hideout in Umuelemai in Isiala Mbano Council Area of the state. Ngozi Anyanwu, who confessed to the crime, said she stole the baby to punish the matron of the maternity, who she alleged, had refused to pay her the money owed her.

Soldiers Kill Kidnap Kingpin in Abia

Soldiers attached to the 144 Battalion, Asa, Ukwa West council area, have shot dead a notorious kidnapper along the Opobo-Azumini highway in Abia state. Luck ran out on the kidnap kingpin, identified as Chisom Aloysius Enyinnaya, when his gang engaged soldiers in a gun duel. It was learned that the kidnappers, on sighting the soldiers, opened fire on them. In the ensuing gun battle, Enyinnaya was shot dead while other members of his gang escaped with bullet wounds. Enyinnaya and members of his gang are said to have been on the wanted list of the security agencies following the increasing attacks on motorists plying the Opobo-Azumini highway.

Police Nab Kidnap Suspect in Abia

Police operatives in Abia State have arrested a suspected kidnapper, Kingsley Sunday, in Aba. It was learnt that operatives from the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), who were acting on a tip-off on August 21, nabbed Sunday and recovered a Toyota Sienna, which was stolen. It was gathered that the suspect was a member of a notorious kidnapping gang, led by one Agbayi, aka Onye Army, who was killed in a gun battle with the police in June 2016. The Abia State Commissioner of Police, Adeleye Oyebade, said the police had got report that some kidnappers had entered into Aba through Ohanku and promptly dispatched its operatives to the area, adding that Sunday was arrested during the operation.

Kaduna Lawmaker, Ibrahim Ismail, Kidnapped

A member of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Ibrahim Ismail, has been abducted. The abduction of Ismail, representing the Tudun Wada constituency in Kaduna State happened on August 23 from his residence, according to reports. Further details were not immediately available.

Abia Police Uncover Baby Factory, Rescue Pregnant Girls

Operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) attached to the Abia State Police Command have uncovered a suspected baby factory at the Ogbor Hill area of Aba. The SARS operatives raided the place and rescued five pregnant women while a 54-year-old man, identified as Nkem Nwokocha, was arrested. Nwokocha allegedly ran the factory with his wife, identified only as Nurse. The State Commissioner of Police, Adeleye Oyebade, said the police acted on a tip-off. He explained that upon receipt of the information, operatives moved into the area and discovered the hideout, where the pregnant women were camped.

Woman Cages Girl inside Bush for Five Months

A 28-year-old woman, Mary Matthew, has been arrested by men of the Ondo State Police Command for allegedly caging a four-year-old girl in a kiosk inside a bush for over five months in Imafon village in the Akure-South LGA of the State. Mary said she ‘quarantined’ the victim, identified as Precious Michael, when she suspected that she had witchcraft and was infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which reportedly killed her mother in 2015. The suspect, who was arrested in June, was said to be a relative of the late Precious’ mother. Parading the suspect on August 24, the state Commissioner of Police, Hilda Harrison, said the suspect was arrested following a tip-off. The girl was immediately rescued and taken to the police clinic for medical attention, while the suspects are under interrogation and will soon be charged to court.

Troops Arrest Suspected Kidnappers in Bauchi State

Troops of 33 Brigade, Nigerian Army, deployed at Forward Operation Base (FOB) Toro, Toro LGA of Bauchi State have arrested suspected kidnappers following a tip-off. The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, August 25, said that the troops, had on August 24, arrested two suspected kidnappers; Dayibu Abdullahi and Nasiru Adamu, at Badiko village along Gumau road, Toro LGA. He said the troops also recovered a bag containing the sum of N439,000.00 and some personal items from the suspects. Preliminary investigation shows that the amount was their share from a paid ransom in a recent kidnap incident. He added that another suspected kidnapper, Jibrin Dakam, was arrested on the same day at Magama, also in Toro LGA, by the troops. Investigation confirmed that he fled his den at Jenge following the military Operation Forest Kunama at Lame-Burra Forest recently.

Robbery

Police, Vigilantes Nab Robbery Gang in Taraba

The Taraba state police command, in conjunction with a renowned vigilante group, Tabital Pulaaku Njode Jam, August 21, arrested four members of a robbery gang that had been operating in Bali LGA of the state and its environs. The suspects, who are part of a seven-man gang, were arrested following a tip off while carrying out an operation along Sansani/Nafada road. The state Commissioner of Police, Yakubu Yunana Babas, paraded the suspects. He revealed that two single barrel guns were recovered from the bandits whose names he gave as Nadabo Abubakar (19), Abubakar Abdulkadir (23), Ahmed Musa (20) and Riga Rabo (27).

Legionnaire Arrested for Motorcycles Theft in Lagos

A member of the Nigerian Legion, Lagos State, Umam Hamid (48), has been arrested by the Lagos State Police Command for allegedly stealing four motorcycles. The suspect, parading as an operative of the Lagos State Taskforce on Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit, would stop motorcyclists on the road and allege that they were violating the state traffic law. He would then take their motorcycles away after giving them a fake phone number. The suspect was nabbed on August 19 after he had seized the motorcycle of one Amin Al-Hassan. Hamid was said to have been apprehended by the operatives of the Rapid Response Squad while chasing a passer-by who snatched his fake ID card. It was learnt that at the RRS office, three other victims from whom Hamid had allegedly stolen three motorcycles, showed up to identify him. The Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the incident.

Pastor, Church Member Arrested for Robbery

Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a 45-year-old pastor, Joseph Olude, and his church member, Rasak Raheem, for allegedly robbing in the Idiroko-Oke Odan area, a border community between Ogun State and the Benin Republic. Olude and Raheem were reportedly arrested on August 11 during a robbery operation. A businessman, who was moving money from Nigeria to the Benin Republic, was said to have put a distress call across to the police. The two suspects were thereafter arrested, while other members of the gang reportedly fled. Olude, who denied being a robbery suspect, said that Raheem came to his church for a special prayer. He explained that he did not know that Raheem and his friend, one Bidemi, were armed robbers and kept guns on the church premises. Raheem, however, claimed that the pastor was aware that some robbers brought guns to keep with him in the church. The police recovered one AK-47 rifle fully loaded with 30 rounds of live ammunition, and 15 extra AK-47 ammunition. Effort is on to arrest the fleeing members of the gang.

Man Arrested for Robbing with Toy Gun

A 27-year-old armed robber, August 22, explained that he robbed people, especially women, with toy guns in Maroko area of Lagos State. The suspect was arrested by policemen during a failed robbery attack. Police Spokesman, Dolapo Badmos, said that the suspect had been transferred to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the State Police Command for onward investigations. It was gathered that Sunday was attempting to rob a lady when the policemen swooped on him and arrested him. Two toy guns and a knife were found on him.

Wounded Robbery Suspect Dies in Police Custody

A suspect who reportedly belonged to a gang of armed robbers in Okaka, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, has died while in the custody of the police. The police authorities in the state disclosed that the deceased, Innocent Kokorifa, and his group exchanged gunfire with the cops who were on their trail, leading to his severe injuries. Though he was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa, the police said that Kokorifa died while he was receiving treatment at the hospital. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Asinim Butswat, August 24, said members of the gang opened fire on the security operatives deployed to trail the suspected criminals before the police retaliated on August 17. One of the suspects sustained a bullet injury while the others escaped, abandoning one locally made Single Barrel pistol, one live cartridge, one expended cartridge and wraps of substances suspected to be Indian hemp. Efforts have been intensified to arrest the fleeing suspects. Investigation is ongoing, he said.

Gang Incidents

Police Arrest Notorious Cult Leader in Lagos

A Self-confessed leader of Eiye confraternity in Somolu and Pedro areas of Lagos State, August 24, revealed that he butchered two members of a rival cult group to avenge the death of a fellow cult member. The suspect, an ex-convict, who had been on the wanted list of Lagos State Police Command, over his alleged involvement in various crimes ranging from robbery to arson, was arrested by policemen in Somolu. The suspect, Oriyomi Ibrahim, was paraded alongside 25 other suspects that have been terrorising the state. The Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, described his arrest as a major one.

Drugs

FG Issues Alert on Fake Quinine Sulphate in Circulation

The Federal Government has confirmed two falsified versions of Quinine Sulphate in circulation. The Federal Ministry of Health received a medical alert that the two falsified drugs contain zero active pharmaceutical ingredients. The statement signed by Bode Akinola, Director of Media and Public Relations of the ministry, August 21, said the drugs were circulating in West and Central Africa. Akinola said the two version of the drug were circulating in Cameroon and Democratic Republic of Congo, and could find their way into the Nigerian market. She said the quinine Sulphate was used in the treatment of malaria. She said one of the fake products was named Quinine Sulfate 300 mg with 1000 Tablets per container, Batch Number 10H05, expiry date 09/2018 and it manufactured 09/2014. The director said the other version of the fake drug was Quinine Sulphate 300mg with 100 Tablets per container; batch F4387, expiry date 11/18 and its date of manufacture is 12/14. The ministry urges Nigerians to also report it the following GSM numbers: +234-8037881120, +234-8055056727 and +234-8035902679.

Militancy/Maritime

Militancy: More Groups Declare Ceasefire

More militant groups in the Niger Delta have announced ceasefire on a condition that security agencies should stop forthwith with harassment and intimidation of their suspected members. The Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) had resolved to end all forms of hostilities in the region. The group’s spokesman, Brig-Gen. Mudoch Aginigbo, announced this on August 20. Other groups, including the Reformed Egbesu Fraternities comprising Egbesu Boys of the Niger Delta, Egbesu Red Water Lions and Egbesu Mightier Fraternity, also announced a 60-day ceasefire.

JTF Kills Two Avengers, Arrests Three Militants

The Joint Task Force in the Niger Delta, has killed two members of the Niger Delta Avengers and arrested three others over the killing of four soldiers in Bayelsa State. Gunmen, suspected to be militants, had on August 8, attacked and killed four soldiers at a military checkpoint in Nembe and carted away their arms, ammunition and military gunboat. The Commander of the JTF, Rear Admiral Joseph Okojie, August 22, said that the troops recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition, adding that a military gunboat seized from the soldiers was also recovered. Okojie said that the search for the suspected killers led them to a hideout in a camp at Saraba Creek in Okigbene in Southern Ijaw LGA, where the soldiers located the militants and engaged them in a gun duel, leading to the death of two suspects and the arrest of three others. Nine AK47 rifles, an FN rifle, four HK 21 MGs, one G3 MG, three GPMGs, 20 AK47 magazines, two G3 magazines, one FN magazine, one container of gunpowder, the gunboat seized from the murdered soldiers and military accoutrements were recovered. Other items recovered include 1,145 rounds of 7.62mm metal link, 2, 485 rounds of 7.62mm ball cartons, 370 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and 1,356 rounds of 7.62mm NATO.

Suspected Militants Blow Up NPDC Gas Pipeline in Delta

Niger Delta militants, August 19, blew up another gas pipeline being operated by the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) at Owhrode and Orhuwhorun in Udu LGA of Delta State. The pipeline supplies gas to the defunct Delta Steel Company (DSC) at Aladja in Orhuwhorun community. About two pipelines operated by the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company were affected in the incident. A new militant group, Niger Delta Greenland Justice Mandate, said it was responsible the attack. A technical team of NPDC and security officials have been deployed to the area to prevent the spread of crude to other communities. The group also warned that no repair should be carried out on the damaged pipeline. Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Hon. (Chief) Solomon Kpomah, condemned the act.

Suspected Militants Arrested with High Power Bombs in Akwa Ibom

Three suspected militants have been arrested by the Police in Akwa Ibom State with high-power bombs. The State Commissioner of Police, Murtala Mani, parading the suspects on August 19, said the suspects were arrested on August 18 through an intelligence report. Mani said the suspects were arrested in Eket LGA with bombs capable of sinking any ship, boat, or destroying buildings or pipelines. Mani said bombs recovered from the suspected militants included two high-power IED bombs measuring 60/80.5 cm and 44/5.5 cm respectively; and one long single high-power propel launcher bomb measuring 78/4.55cm.

Terrorism

Nigerian Army Invades Bauchi Forests to Clear Insurgents, Criminal Elements

The Commander, 33 Artillery Brigade Bauchi, Brigadier General Abraham Luka Dusu, August 21, said the Brigade had embarked on operations and search of forests in Bauchi State in order to flush out criminal elements, including fleeing Boko Haram members in the state. Dusu said aggressive operations are currently going on in Lame Forest in Toro LGA and Burra Forest in Ningi LGA of the State to clear them of terrorists who may be hiding there. He said the Chief of Army Staff, General Yusuf Buratai, had directed the Brigade to carry out the operations after complaints by residents of the areas that they have been noticing movements of unidentified people with arms at the forests. The Brigade Commander said the operations will be conducted in Lame, Yankari, Balmore and Burra forest, which are very thick. He charged the locals and the local vigilante groups to remain calm and report any suspected case or movement of criminal elements to the authorities.

Boko Haram Kills 6, Abducts 13 in Borno

Boko Haram insurgents, August 20, attacked Kuburubu village in Damboa LGA of Borno State, killing six persons and abducting about 13 others. A member of the youth vigilante group in the area, Abubakar Luqman, said that attackers rode on four motorcycles to the village at about 5am when everyone was still asleep. He said before everyone could be fully awake, they entered some homes killing six people and kidnapping 13, leaving many others wounded. Luqman further disclosed that the insurgents looted all the food items, and carted away livestock including goats, camels, and their chickens before they set the village ablaze.

DSS Nabs Alleged Mastermind of Yobe Secondary School Killings

The spiritual leader of Boko Haram and alleged mastermind of the 2013 terror attack on Government Secondary School, Mamudo in Yobe State has been captured. Spokesman of the Department of State Service (DSS), Tony Opuiyo, August 23, said that the suspect, Mudaisiru Jibrin, was arrested in Kano on August 17. He added that the operation was in furtherance of the on-going tactical and counter-terrorism operations to degrade the capabilities of criminal gangs and syndicates in their hideouts across the federation. Jibrin was reportedly arrested in the Yankaba neighbourhood in Kano, where he was operating as a spiritual leader for a new Boko Haram sleeper cell.

Shekau ‘Fatally Wounded’ in Air Strike

Boko Haram’s elusive leader, Abubakar Shekau, has been ‘fatally wounded’ and other commanders killed in an air strike on the Islamist group’s forest stronghold, Nigerian military said. The Nigerian Army has repeatedly claimed to have killed Shekau in previous raids only for him to appear shortly afterwards in videos. Shekau was “fatally wounded in the shoulder” during raids on August 19, according to the army spokesman, Sani Usman. Usman also said three Boko Haram commanders – Abubakar Mubi, Malam Nuhu and Malam Hamman — were confirmed dead with several others wounded.

Boko Haram Raze Down Borno Village

Boko Haram terrorist, August 22, sacked a village, Shawa, in Askira LGA of Borno State, the leader of the youth vigilance group in the area, Istifanus Apagu has said. Apagu, who disclosed this on August 23, said that the insurgents attacked and burnt down the entire village and injured many residents. Apagu, who is the leader of the Civilian JTF in Mussa district, said he visited the scene moments after the attack. According to him, the insurgents came on bicycle around 4am while people were sleeping and opened fire on the helpless civilian as the villagers fled into bushes but many were critical injured. No lives were lost but the whole village was set ablaze and nothing was left standing.

NAF Raid Kills Boko Haram Terrorists Commanders

The military, August 23, said that several commanders of Islamic sect, Boko Haram, were killed in a major air onslaught on Sambisa forest. Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Kukasheka Usman, said the operation took place August 19, 2016, as the terrorists were performing Friday rituals at Taye village, Gombale general area, within Sambisa forest in Borno State. The Boko Haram terrorists commanders confirmed dead include Abubakar Mubi, Malam Nuhu and Malam Hamman, among others.

Political/Government Agencies

Six Prisons Officers Died in Abakaliki Jailbreak

The Nigeria Prisons Service (NPS), August 22, said six of its officers died in the August 18 jailbreak at the Abakaliki Prison facility, Ebonyi State. The NPS Public Relations Officer, Francis Enobore, noted that 10 others, including officers and inmates sustained injuries. The incident, which led to the death of the six officials, started when the prison officials were about to carry out routine cell-search in the morning but the inmates in a particular cell resisted the exercise and suddenly became riotous, broke other cells and released the inmates. They eventually broke into the workshop to arm themselves with dangerous weapons and severely attacked some staff trapped in the yard while others made for the main gate and pulled it down. But the Prisons’ Armed Squad and men from other security agencies on guard outside the perimeter fence fired warning shots to deter the rampaging inmates but a number of them rushed out and escaped. The attempt by some of the prisoners was, however, resisted by the combined team of armed personnel, who prevented what could have turned into a catastrophic security situation.

Murder/Assassinations

Herdsmen Invade Enugu Community, Kill Catholic Seminarian

Suspected Fulani herdsmen, August 25, invaded the sleepy Ndiagu Attakwu Akegbe-Ugwu community in Nkanu West LGA of Enugu State, killing a Catholic seminarian, Lazarus Okafor, and injuring four others, including a pregnant woman. The suspected herders were said to have invaded the Ogbodo Nwarum family compound in the community at about 2am and wreaked havoc on the entire household. While the seminarian had severe machete cuts which led to his death, the four others had their bowels ripped open by the herders, who left them gasping for life. The state Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, has warned that the state would no longer tolerate the killings by the invading herdsmen, directing the security operatives to ensure that those, who were involved in the dastardly act were fished out and made to face the full weight of the law.

Eight Burnt to Death in Gusau for Alleged Blasphemy

At least eight persons, were, August 23, burnt to death by a mob in Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, Talata Mafara in Zamfara State after a student of the college was alleged to have committed blasphemy against Prophet Mohammad. The incident occurred when a male student was alleged to have committed blasphemy during an exchange of words with his friend, a Muslim adherent. After the altercation, the student was said to have fled to a house to hide, but the mob tracked him down and gained access to the house, following which they set the house ablaze along with seven other persons in the building. The police in Zamfara confirmed the incident and immediately imposed an indefinite curfew on the town in a bid to restore peace. The Police spokesman in the state, Shehu Muhammad, sternly warned any person or group of persons found violating the curfew would be arrested and prosecuted.

50-Year-Old Woman Murdered by Gateman over Salary

A 50-year-old businesswoman, whose discomposing body was found in her apartment at the Victoria Garden City area of Lagos State, was allegedly murdered by her gate man, following an argument over the latter’s salary. The deceased, Mabel Okafor, who lived alone, had no domestic worker except the gateman. The gateman was said to have resumed work about two months ago. Her body was discovered on August 19 with stab wounds by her church members who decided to visit after they could not reach her for days. Her body was found with a knife protruding out of her stomach. Some gatemen reported that the suspect had threatened that he would leave an indelible mark on his boss, following argument over increase in his salary. He has since fled and a manhunt has been launched to apprehend him.

Fulani Herdsmen Kill RCCG Pastor, Two Others in Kaduna

Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen, August 22, killed three persons among them, one Pastor Luka Ubangari of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Unguwan Anjo, near Godogodo in the Jema’a LGA of Kaduna State. The cleric was said to have been ambushed, shot and killed while on his motorcycle after an evangelical visit to Golkofa, also in the area. The incident occurred a few days after the state governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, visited Godogodo and Sanga districts, in the Jema’a and Sanga LGAs to appraise the attacks of suspected Fulani herdsmen in the area. The President of the Ningon Community Development Association, Nuhu Tukura, said Ningon was attacked and two natives, Gambo Sule and Benjamin Auta, were killed by gunmen. The Kaduna State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Aliyu Usman, who confirmed the incident, however, said that only one person was killed.

Gunmen Raid Enugu, Kill One

Pandemonium broke out, August 24, in Enugu metropolis following a gun battle between nine suspected robbers, who raided New Market, Edinburgh and Independence Layout axis, snatching about three cars. The gunmen, who came in two vehicles, were said to have collected another Camry Spider model from the owner at gunpoint before proceeding to riddle the body of their victim with bullets. They, thereafter, shot sporadically in the air to disperse the crowd and make their escape.

Man Kills Mother, Brother’s Wife in Kwara

The Kwara State Police Command, August 24, paraded a 25-year-old man of the Mamba Fulani camp in Patigi LGA of the state, Abdullahi Adamu, for allegedly killing his mother, Khadijat Usman, and his elder brother’s wife, Ramatu Shagari. Also paraded for the case of conspiracy and culpable homicide, were two suspects-Yahaya Umar and Abubakar Saletu of Kosubosu-who allegedly lured their friend into the bush and beheaded him. The suspect was said to have committed the act to avenge the killing of his family and destruction of their houses during the December 2015 communal clash that broke out between Share and Tsaragi communities over an age-long dispute. The state Commissioner of Police, Mr Olusola Amore, said the command is not in a position to determine the mental state of the Fulani man but stressed that investigation was on-going, and that the suspect would be charged to court.

22-Year-Old Kills Girlfriend in Bush

The 22-year-old man in Owo, Ondo State, Oweniwe Chukwudi, who murdered his girlfriend, Adeyeye Nifemi, has denied killing her for ritual purpose, but for the fun of it. The suspect tricked his girlfriend to Ayede Ogbese, where he carried out the act and left her in the bush, thinking she was dead. The suspect went back to the bush where he had left her in company of another person to carry out the ritual, but surprisingly met her still alive. While pretending to help her, the suspect reportedly took her to a camp close to a filling station in Ilu Abo, where finally killed her by smashing her head with stones. Ondo state Police Commissioner, Hilda Harrison, August 25, said the suspect was arrested following a tip-off and during interrogation, he confessed to committing the crime. Harrison said that the suspect would be charged to court after the conclusion of investigation.

Hotel Workers Kill Boss, Disappear

The Niger State Police Command has started investigations into the killing of the owner of Deploo Hotel and Suites, Lucky Okonkwo, who was murdered in his hotel in Suleja. The 59-year-old victim was stabbed to death on August 19 by a three-man gang, suspected to be workers at his hotel. It was learnt that after killing the victim, the suspects took away the Closed Circuit Television decoder of the hotel, the victim’s phones and fled in his Peugeot 406 saloon car. They also took away a file containing certain information about the hotel. The security men at the hotel, who were the prime suspects, were reported to have fled immediately the incident happened. They were identified as Frank Anavukko, Victor Anerah and Emmanuel Adeh. The murder was discovered on August 20 by a housekeeper, who saw blood streaming out from the victim’s office. The matter was reported at the Madalla Police Division and some of the hotel workers were arrested. Police Public Relations Officer, Bala Elikana, said the police were closing-in on the suspects, adding that information available to the police showed Lucky was killed by his workers.

Three Die in Edo Cult Clash

Three persons have been reportedly killed in a renewed clash between rival cult groups in Oredo LGA of Edo State. One of the victims was said to have had his head severed while the other was shot at a close range on August 24. It was learnt that the fight involved members of the Aiye otherwise known as Black Axe and Eiye Confraternity group. It was gathered that trouble started on August 22 when a fight broke between members of the Black Axe and Eiye Confraternity at a popular bar on Sakponba Road. The disagreement was said to have taken a twist when some gunmen reportedly shot an unidentified man to death within the neighbourhood. It was learnt that Osaze had earlier escaped from his assailants when they stormed his home within the area. The gunmen were, however, said to have given their target a hot chase before he was shot.

Three Killed as Gunmen Invade Rivers Community

Three persons were feared killed, as gunmen suspected to be cultists, invaded Ezelaka Igbodo community in Etche LGA of Rivers State on August 22. One of those shot and killed by the gunmen, who came into the community on motorcycles, was a teacher. The gunmen entered the community on motorcycles, shooting indiscriminately and causing panic among indigenes. Further details were not immediately available.

Gunmen Sack Imo Community, Kill Nine

About nine people were killed after suspected cult members attacked Assa community in the Ohaji-Egbema LGA of Imo State. The victims were killed following a week-long attack since August 15. One of the slain victims was identified as 32-year-old Vitalis Walata. Walata’s relative, Kingsley Igwe, said the father of two was killed on August 23 during a visit to the community. The Government Liaison Officer of the council, Oluchi Odita, confirmed the attacks, but said he could not tell the number of victims. Odita appealed for the intervention of the state and federal governments, saying the situation had gotten out of control. The Commissioner of Police, Imo State, Taiwo Lakanu, said the command was working with the military to end the crisis in the community. Lakanu said the police were faced with the challenge of a difficult terrain and the reluctance of residents to give information.

Police Parade Suspected Killer of Obi of Ubulu-Uku, Others

The acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris, August 23, paraded Umar Mohammed, the leader of the notorious armed gang suspected to have killed the Obi of Ubulu-Uku, Obi Edward Akaeze Ofulue (111), in January. Mohammed was identified by one of the victims, who escaped after they were kidnapped. The suspect was arrested at Abraka market in Asaba, on July 19 by the Special Anti-kidnapping Operatives. Force Public Relations Officer, Donald Awunah, said volunteers who give police useful information will be treated in confidentiality. He commended the public for their increasing assistance to the police through giving information, adding that there was no way the police could succeed in crime prevention without the citizens as their support remained critical and germane. Mohamed, however, denied the allegation.

Rape

Abuja Doctor Drugs, Rapes Patients

A 47-year-old consultant gynaecologist, Dr. Kalu Nwachukwu, accused of sexually abusing women, who went to his hospital for treatment, has been arrested by officers of the Federal Capital Territory Police Command. The doctor, according to police, gives his patients drugs that make them lose their bearings, after which he allegedly forced them to have sexual intercourse with him. The FCT Police spokesperson, Anjuguri Mamza, said that the doctor was arrested on August 4, following reports of the alleged misconduct. The suspect has reportedly confessed to have had sexual affairs with some of his female patients in his office and other locations. Investigations also revealed that the suspect uses drugs to induce his victims in order to have intercourse with them; thereby corroborating the allegations brought up against him.

Police Arrest Teacher for Raping Nine-Year-Old Pupil

The Katsina State Police Command has arrested a 33-year-old teacher for allegedly raping a nine-year-old pupil. The teacher, Hamisu Galadima, said to be a serial rapist, had reportedly lured the pupil into the staff room in July and raped her. He was said to have threatened to beat her up if she informed her parents or anybody in the school about the act. But the victim confided in her father, Hashimu Mohammed, who reported the incident to the polcie. The suspect, was August 23, arraigned before a Katsina Magistrate’s Court and was remanded in prison custody while the case was adjourned till September 26. The suspect was being investigated on five other rape cases.

50-Year-Old in Court over Rape of Girl, 12

A 50-year-old security guard, Inusa Barau, was remanded in Prison over allegations of raping a 12-year-old girl in Katsina. Barau was accused of raping the 12-year-old pupil of Sheik Gumi Primary School, Kankara. The school’s headmaster, Salihu Aliyu, had reported the incident at the Kankara Police Station, alleging that Barau committed the offence at the Kankara LGA guest house where he (Barau) worked. The police, August 23, said Barau confessed to have had sex with the victim twice. A Katsina Magistrate’s Court adjourned the case to September 28 for hearing.

Others

Man Burns 5-year-Old Daughter’s Eyes, Genitals with Iron

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a man, Surakat Idowu, for allegedly brutalising his five-year-old daughter with a hot iron in the Ikotun area of the state. The 45-year-old suspect allegedly tortured the girl with an iron in the face and genitals on August 22. The incident occurred after the girl, who was asked by her father to dispose faeces in a potty into the latrine, slipped and poured it on the floor. It was learnt that Idowu got a hot iron and allegedly battered the girl’s body. A neighbour, who witnessed the incident, reported to the police and the suspect was arrested. It was learnt that the state Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, had directed that the case be transferred from the Ikotun Police Division to the Gender Unit at the command headquarters, Ikeja.

Review/Analysis

Murder and assassination took an upward plunge with very ugly incidents. This was seen in the case of eight persons, who were burnt to death by a mob in Zamfara State over alleged blasphemy against Prophet Mohammad. Invasion of communities by herdsmen has remained a recent trend, especially in Enugu State, with very brutal killings on their trail. A community was again invaded by rampaging herdsmen, unfortunately a catholic seminarian was cruelly butchered to death while others sustained injuries including a pregnant woman. Other incidents include cult clashes, communal crises and lone killings. The south-east and south-west witnessed most of these atrocious crimes while few were recorded in the north central part of the country.

Kidnap/hostage incidents remained high with various incidents of abduction and trafficking in persons. However, it was reassuring as the authorities ensured the rescue of victims, with major arrests of suspects. A notorious kidnapper in Abia state was arrested by the police who acted on a tip-off. Similarly, soldiers attached to the 144 Battalion engaged in a gunfight with a kidnap kingpin and his gang, though members of the gang escaped with bullet wounds the leader of the gang was shot dead. In a very sad case of hostage-taking, the police rescued 28 persons, including children that were chained in a residence in Lagos. The police have commenced investigations with a view to arresting and prosecuting all suspects. The south-east and south-west recorded more.

Terrorism saw a slight increase from the previous week as the military continues its offensives against the activities of Boko Haram insurgents. While the activities of the terrorists have been drastically reduced, pockets of attacks continue as terrorist make daring moves for survival by attacking communities on their escape routes, scavenging for food. Many terrorist enclaves were cleared, while hostages were rescued. Troops continue to kill the insurgents in their numbers, as activities of the insurgents have been hampered by military troops who are determined to bring peace back to the endemic north-east region.

Robbery and gang incidents took a nose dive as there were only pockets of robbery and gang related incidents. The authorities have made some arrest. The south-west region recorded more of these cases. Major criminal suspects and gang leaders were arrested while some suspects remain at large.

Militant activities continue to rise as militant groups persistently blow-up pipelines. But as the groups prepare for dialogue with the government, most of them declared ceasefire but with the condition that security agencies should stop a direct harassment and intimidation of their suspected members and even host communities. Efforts by the government to stifle activities of the numerous militant groups remain wobbly as there have been a stalemate between both parties. There is a concern within the Niger Delta region as no one appears to know the next line of action between the aggrieved militant groups and the government forces.

The government security forces charge every Nigerian and persons that are resident in Nigeria to be security conscious. It is the responsibility of everyone to be a neighbourhood watch. Take cognizance of your environment to keep you and your neighbour safe.

Villeworth also urges you to remain law abiding and report any perceived threat to the appropriate authorities for prompt investigation.