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

Week 45

SUMMARY OF MAJOR INCIDENTS BY CATEGORY


S/N

CATEGORY

MAJOR INCIDENTS

1

Kidnap/Hostage

9

2

Robbery

10

3

Gang

4

Drugs

2

5

Militancy/Maritime Incidents

5

6

Terrorism

9

7

Political/Government Agencies

8

Murder/Assassination

9

9

Rape Incidents

5

10

Others

6

Kidnap/Hostage Incidents

Police Dislodge Kidnappers in Delta State

A 24-year-old kidnap kingpin, Ikechukwu Oscar, has confessed that he and his gang members kidnapped one Emeka, a businessman in Asaba. The suspect, among others paraded by the Police Commissioner, Zanna Ibrahim, at the State Police Command, confessed that his involvement in the kidnap was a result of Emeka not willing to pay him the N100,000 he owed him. Oscar and his gang members were caught on their way to Okpanam road around Akpu Junction on a tricycle, where Police detectives stopped them and after conducting a search, they recovered three face masks and wraps of marijuana from them. In another development, the Police in Kwale killed a notorious kidnap/robbery suspect identified as Jonathan, alias GSM, during a gun battle. Zanna Ibrahim confirmed that the suspect was killed after he and his gang members had kidnapped a bank manager.

Soldiers Kill Kidnappers, Rescue 16-Year-Old Boy

Operatives of the Nigerian Army, 33 Artillery Brigade Headquarters, Bauchi, October 29, killed two suspected kidnappers during an exchange of fire in Rafin Gigi village in Alkaleri LGA and also rescued a 16-year-old boy, who was kidnapped on October 28. The Platoon Commander, Captain Harrison Chiagozie, November 2, said that N770,000 cash was recovered from the kidnappers. He said the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of N1.6m from the family, but the family only raised N770,000. According to him, the boy was rescued immediately after the ransom, which was used to lure out the kidnappers, was paid. An exchange of fire ensued between the military and the kidnappers, leading to the death of the two suspects.

Hawker Saves Student from Kidnappers

A hawker and concerned resident of Abuja, Mr. Daura Usman, November 1, saved a secondary school student from being kidnapped by a motorist along Ibrahim Babangida Way in Wuse Zone 4. Usman reported that he saw a man alight from the backseat of a Toyota Sienna vehicle and walked toward the young girl in school uniform and dragged her toward the vehicle. According to him, the man just lifted the girl by the waist and made his way toward the car but the girl began screaming, so he quickly dropped his wares and ran to confront the suspected kidnapper. The man noticed that people were coming around so he left her and got into the sienna which sped off on the Central Mosque Express Way.

Police Parade Kidnappers, Others in Imo State

The Imo State Police Command, October 31, paraded over 40 suspects for various crimes ranging from kidnapping, armed robbery, murder, unlawful possession of fire arms and cultism, among others. It also announced the reintroduction of the ‘Operation Mkpochapu’, meant to flush out criminals from the state and ensure a crime-free Christmas period. The state Commissioner of Police, Taiwo Lakanu, said that on October 26, a four-man gang that allegedly masterminded the kidnap of a Catholic ex-seminarian, Peter Chukwuemeka, was nabbed. He said that the victim was kidnapped in front of St. Peter’s Seminary, Okigwe, and rescued by the operatives of the command two days later. Lakanu said the suspects had made useful statements about their roles in the crime and would soon be charged to court after police investigations.

DSS Rescues Operative from Kidnappers’ Den

Operatives of the Department of State Services DSS), October 27, rescued one of their colleagues, who was kidnapped by unknown gunmen on October 26 along Eleme-Agbonchia Road in Eleme LGA of Rivers State. The operative, simply identified as Agnes, was in a commercial bus with about 10 passengers when the gunmen stopped the bus and kidnapped the occupants. But while others were later allowed to go, Agnes was held back in a forest in Oyigbo. The DSS operatives immediately swung into action and successfully rescued her. It was gathered that the hoodlums took to their heels and abandoned the victim when they noticed the presence of some DSS operatives in the bush.

Suspected Kidnappers Paraded in Ogun State

The Ogun State Police Command, October 28, paraded two Fulani men, Muhammed Ojonla and Adamu Saliu, said to be members of a kidnapping ring operating in Imeko area of the state. Parading the suspects at the Police Headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta, Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Iliyasu, said the suspects and other offenders were arrested at different locations of the state between August and October this year.

Two Policemen Arrested for Kidnapping in Delta

Two policemen have been arrested and are currently being interrogated in connection with the alleged kidnapped of a businessman, Daniel Umukoro, in Abraka in Ethiope East LGA of Delta State. The two policemen were said to have carried out the criminal activity on November 1, in collusion with two civilians who were still at large. It was learnt that the two policemen were arrested at Okpara-Waterside, about 40 kilometers from Abraka where the victim was allegedly abducted. The two policemen, Corporal Musa Edon and Corporal Oreva Idide, were reportedly apprehended by a team of the DTHA peace and anti-kidnapping committee following a tip-off by eyewitnesses in Abraka who reportedly heard unusual gunshots during the abduction of the victim. The special security team eventually swooped on them at the Okpara-Waterside hideout, arresting the two policemen while their two civilian accomplices allegedly escaped arrest. Acting police spokesman, Daniel Aniamaka, confirmed that the two policemen were still being quizzed.

Kidnapped Ekiti INEC secretary regains freedom

The Administrative Secretary of the Independent National Electoral Commission in Ekiti State, Muslim Omoleke, who was kidnapped by gunmen at Iwaraja in Osun State on November 3, regained his freedom after less than 24 hours in captivity. The Osun State Commissioner of Police, Fimihan Adeoye, confirmed his release on November 4. The CP did not give details of the release. Omoleke was reportedly abducted at Iwaraja while traveling to Osun State from Akure in Ondo State. The INEC scribe was said to be traveling in his official car with his daughter and driver when the gunmen stopped them and took him away. The driver and the daughter were later dropped, but their phones were reportedly taken away by the gunmen.

Police Nab Kidnap Gang Leader

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested the leader of a notorious kidnap gang. The State Commissioner of Police, Hilda Harrison, November 3, paraded 20-year-old Ali Muhammed, who was arrested over the kidnap of one Alhaji Ibrahim Bello of Supare Akoko. The victim was said to have been attacked by a gang of kidnappers along Igbonla/Supare Akoko and taken to an unknown destination. The suspect, upon interrogation, confessed to the crime. The Police Commissioner also said that a Toyota Camry car worth N2.5 million, stolen in Akure and sold for N200,000, had been recovered. Two suspects, Falade Adesanmi and Gbenga Adewale, had been arrested in connection with the robbery of the car belonging to one Mrs. Akomolafe Abiodun.

Robbery

Three in Court for Alleged N11m Robbery

Three armed robbery suspects were, October 31, arraigned before a Katsina Senior Magistrates court for alleged robbery of over N11m from a bank. The suspects - Suleiman Hamisu, Usman Ibrahim and Onyishi Uche - along with others still at large, were alleged to have raided the bank on October 22 and made away with N11, 251,000. The suspects, armed with guns, also destroyed fire proof cabinet, CCTV Cameras, doors, ATM machines, among other properties in the bank. The plea of the accused could not be taken as the court lacked the jurisdiction to hear the case. The presiding magistrate, Hajiya Fadila Dikko, told them that their offence could only be tried by the High Court after the completion of Police investigation and a prima facie might have been established against them by the state Ministry of Justice. She advised them to also seek bail from the High Court. Dikko adjourned the case to November 14, 2016 for mention, while directing that the accused be remanded in Police custody till then.

Navy Arrests Two Cattle Rustlers, Recovers 295 Livestock

The Commandant, Nigerian Navy School of Armament Technology, Kachia, Kaduna, Commodore Timothy Dakwat, October 30, said that the command arrested two cattle rustlers and recovered 285 cows and seven sheep from them. He said the suspects were arrested on October 29, at about 1am, following an intelligence report on the hide out of the rustlers at Maro, Gidana Auta and Rijana village, in Kachia LGA. He added that there was exchange of fire between the security operatives and the rustlers before the security officers overpowered the bandits. Dakwat, who said nobody died in the incident.

Police Bust car Snatching Syndicate

The Abia State Police Command has arrested the leader of a car snatching syndicate in Aba, Ladislas Ukpabi. The suspect was arrested by the police operatives in connection with a car theft case reported to the Abayi Police Division in Aba. It was learnt that one Felix Anyanwu had made a complaint that his Lexus SUV was stolen from him at gun point on August 8, 2016 by some hoodlums. It was gathered that the police in its investigation arrested one Igwe Uloma, while in the process of re-registration of the stolen vehicle for one Obinna Nwokeji. Obinna, who claimed that he bought the vehicle from Ukpabi at the cost of N600,000 later confessed to be a member of the syndicate. Exhibits recovered from the hoodlums are one locally made single barrel shotgun with six live cartridges, two cars, a master car key and one standing fan. The police also arrested one Moses Nwosu, a panel beater/sprayer painter based at Orji in Owerri, Imo State, who allegedly repainted the stolen vehicles from its original colour to black for Obinna. The State Commissioner of Police, Adeleye Oyebade, October 29, confirmed the arrest of the suspects.

Student Remanded over Alleged Armed Robbery

An Akure Chief Magistrates’ Court, October 31, ordered the remand of a 20-year-old student, Segun Adeoye, at the Olokuta Prison’s custody over alleged armed robbery. Adeoye is facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, armed robbery and possession of firearms. The prosecutor, Pelumi Adejuwon, told the court that the accused and others at large were armed with a locally-made single barrel gun and other offensive weapons when they carried out the attack and stole a Toyota Yaris saloon car, property of one Faturoti Sharon in March 2016. Adejuwon said that the accused failed to give satisfactory account of how he came about the locally-made single barrel gun found in his possession. The plea by Mr Habib Bidmus, counsel to the accused, was not taken by the court as the Magistrate, Sunday Adedapo, ordered the accused to be remanded pending the receipt of legal advice from the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPPs). The court then adjourned the case till November 28 for first review and legal advice.

Robbers Attack Delta Bank with Dynamite, Cart off N25m

Dare-devil robbers, October 29, attacked a bank in Ughelli and carted away N25 million after blowing up the bank’s vault with dynamite. It was gathered that the hoodlums, who were dressed in army camouflage, used dynamite and welding tools to break into the ATM inside the bank and the bank’s vault, where a bulk of the cash was kept. An auditor of the bank, who was sent from the Benin regional office for the regular auditing of the bank’s branch, estimated that about N25 million was stolen from the bank.

Armed Robbers Attack Bureau de Change in Benin

Robbers, October 28, raided a Bureau de Change office at Sakpoba Road in Benin City, Edo State and carted away over N12 million. It was learned that the robbers, who dressed like men of Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), trailed one of the traders, who went to the bank to withdraw money, to the office. The robbers followed the victim to his office quietly, while people around thought they were men from the SARS, who escorted the victim to the bank. Pandemonium broke out when the robbers started shooting sporadically into the air after they robbed the victim of about N9 million and another victim of N3 million.

Ogun Police Arrest OPC Leader, 22 Others for Robbery

The Ogun State Police Command, October 28, paraded 23 suspected criminals for various crimes, ranging from armed robbery, kidnapping to illegal possession of arms. One of the suspects, a coordinator of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) in Ita Oluwo area of Ikorodu, Lagos State, Segun Ilaojo, was arrested for robbery and possession of a sophisticated micro-Beretta pistol. One pump action riffle and nine live cartridges were allegedly recovered from the suspect when operatives of the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (F-SARS) stormed his hideout in Ita-Oluwo community on October 24.

Abia Police Arrest Sergeant, Others for Robbery

The Abia State Police Command, October 31, paraded a police sergeant, Matthew Elah, attached to the Rivers State Police Command for allegedly being an accomplice in a robbery operation. The suspect was arrested following a tip-off after a robbery incident at Akwette community in Ukwa East LGA. Abia State Commissioner of Police, Leye Oyebade said the suspect was arrested following a report that some policemen robbed and snatched a motorcycle from the owner at Umuteke-Akwette road Abia State. Oyebade said that the suspect had confessed to committing the crime with another Police Sergeant, one Isah Alhaji of 48 Police Mobile Force Ahoada, Rivers State, but is now on the run. The Police Commissioner said efforts were on to recover the stolen motorcycle and that the suspect would soon be arraigned in court.

Gunmen Hold Judge, Lawyers Hostage, Loot court

About 10 gunmen, November 3, stormed three courts in Makurdi, Benue State and held a sitting judge hostage. It was gathered the Benue State High Court 9, presided over by Justice Mary Abounu, who is the wife of deputy governor, was already seated when the gunmen stormed her court and held her and the people in her court hostage. They looted the three courts invaded and thereafter locked the courtrooms with the padlocks they had brought with them. Confirming the invasion, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Michael Gusa, also condemned the act. Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, said three security guards had already been invited for interrogation.

Robbers Hold Children Hostage, Lead Mother to Withdraw Money from Bank

Police Detectives in Ondo State Police Command have arrested the leader of a three-man armed robbery gang that held a mother of four, Folashade Jayeoba, hostage and led her to the bank to withdraw N90,000. The leader of the gang had asked for her ATM card and led her to the bank while his cohorts held her children hostage. Commissioner of Police, Hilda Harrison, November 3, said that the suspects invaded the house of the victim and robbed her of valuables. Harrison explained that they also abducted the victim and her four children and led them to Keystone Bank in Alagbaka, Akure, where she was forced to withdraw N90,000 before she and the children were set free by the suspects. According to her, on receipt of the case, detectives swung into action and arrested the leader of the gang, 23-year-old Samuel Ayodele. He was said to have confessed to the crime, while the victims’ items were recovered from his house.

Gang Incidents

Drugs

Man Jail Four Years for Marijuana Possession

A Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti, November 1, sentenced a 51-year-old man to four-year imprisonment for unlawful possession of 26.5kg of marijuana. Justice Taiwo Taiwo sentenced Akindele Oso to prison without an option of fine, after he pleaded guilty. According to the prosecutor, the offence contravened Section 19 of the NDLEA Act, 2004.

NDLEA Seizes over 2,000kg of Cocaine, Cannabis in FCT

The National Drug Law enforcement Agency (NDLEA), FCT Command, seized over 2,000kg of cannabis sativa, cocaine and other illicit drugs in October. The NDLEA FCT Commander, Mrs Chinyere Obijuru, disclosed this on November 1 in Abuja. She said that the seizures were made possible by the agency’s intensified fight against drug trafficking in and around the FCT. The command’s Public Relations Officer, Peter Adegbe, said that most of the drugs were seized at Abaji. He said that the agency seized 1,799kg of cannabis sativa concealed in a compartment of a truck on October 27 at Abaji. Adegbe said that the truck, heading for Yola from Edo, was intercepted in the FCT through the vigilance and professionalism of NDLEA officers on duty. He said that the NDLEA also arrested a suspect with 76.2g of cocaine worth over two million naira while the suspect was trying to smuggle the substance into the FCT.

Militancy/Maritime

Militants Claim Responsibility for Bombing on NPDC Trunkline

Urhobo/Isoko militant group, Niger Delta Greenland Justice Mandate (NDGJM), October 30, claimed that it bombed the 32-inch Effurun-Otor delivery line operated by the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC). Spokesman of the group, Aldo Agbalaja, said that its action was in protest against the pan-Niger Delta Forum headed by Chief Edwin Clark that would be meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari on October 31. Checks, however, revealed that the attack was carried out on a disused trunk-line abandoned by NPDC.

Soldiers Kill Two Suspected Militants in Niger Delta

Soldiers attached to the Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), October 31, said they killed two suspected militants in Cross River State during raids on known militants’ camps. The raids continued with the killing of a ‘notorious’ militant identified as Okon Iyo, while the body of another one, who was earlier shot by the soldiers, was recovered. Lt Col., Olaolu Daudu, Coordinator, Joint Media Campaign Centre of the OPDS, said that the deceased suspects belonged to the Bakassi Strike Force. He added that several other suspects whose compounds were raided by the security operatives were arrested, while the shrines used in perpetrating their activities were destroyed.

Navy Arrests Three Cameroonians, Nigerian over Oil Theft

The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base, Ibaka in Mbo LGA of Akwa Ibom State, has apprehended three Cameroonians and a Nigerian with 66 drums containing 250 litres each of product suspected to be Premium Motor Spirit. The Commanding Officer of the base, Navy Captain Siyanbade Adedokun, who paraded the suspects on November 1, said one Cotonou wooden boat equipped with two 40 horsepower outboard engines were seized from the suspects. The state commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Obiajulu Obiageli, who received the suspects from the Navy, expressed gratitude to the commanding officer for working hard to protect the territorial integrity of the country.

Niger Delta Militants Bomb Shell Pipeline in Delta

Niger Delta militants, November 2, blew up an oil pipeline belonging to the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in Batan community in Warri South West LGA of Delta State. The incident occurred at SPDC Camp Five between with a huge fire enveloping the site of the attack. Another community source confirmed the incident, stating that they heard a huge explosion in the early hours of the day only to discover it was a pipeline belonging to Shell that had been attacked. Security sources disclosed that the latest attack by the militants might be as a result of the commencement of repair work on the pipeline while negotiations are ongoing between the Niger Delta leaders and the Federal Government.

Military Confirms Blast at NPDC Flow Station in Delta

The Joint Military Task Force deployed to the Niger Delta to protect oil infrastructure, November 2, confirmed an explosion at an oil field operated by Nigerian Petroleum Development Company in Delta. The Spokesman of the Operation Delta Safe, Lt.-Col. Olaolu Daudu, who confirmed the development, said that troops deployed to the area heard an explosion at the Batan Flow Station run by NPDC, a subsidiary of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation.

Terrorism

9 Die, 24 Injured as Explosions Rock Maiduguri

There were two suicide bomb attacks in Maiduguri Borno state on October 29, killing 9 persons. The Borno State Commissioner of Police, Damien Chukwu, disclosed that one of the incidents occurred at the entrance to one of the Internally Displaced Persons camps, Bakassi camp, just moments after the morning Islamic prayer. According to him, a female suicide bomber blended with a group of people returning from the mosque to detonate her explosives, killing herself and five others. Fifteen others were injured. A short distance away, another female suicide bomber in a tricycle detonated a bomb which claimed her life and that of two other occupants of the tricycle. Chukwu said the tricycle had tried to detonate the explosive device near a truck conveying petrol to create havoc but was cut off by a speeding car. He said the explosion affected the car but the tanker was saved in what could have been a major disaster. Spokesman for the Nigerian Army, 7 Division, in Maiduguri, Col. Mustapha Anka, reiterated the need for more vigilance and security consciousness among all.

Sniper Foils Suicide Bombing at IDP Camp, Kills Bomber

An attempt by a suicide bomber to detonate his explosives at the Bakassi Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp at Damboa road, Maiduguri, Borno State, was, October 30, foiled by a sniper attached to Operation Lafiya Dole. The suicide bomber was said to have attempted to sneak into the IDP camp through the western flank when he was spotted. The sniper was said to have waited for the bomber to come closer before gunning him down. According to the acting Director Army, Public Relations, Colonel Sani Usman, the incident, which happened at about 9am, saw the sniper intercepting the bomber and killing him.

5 Soldiers Killed in Boko Haram Ambushed on Troops

Troops Operation Lafiya Dole, carrying out clearance operations on suspected Boko Haram terrorists hideouts in Talala and Ajigin, southern part of Borno State, were on October 30, ambushed by suspected Boko Haram terrorists at Ugundiri village, Damboa LGA of, Borno State, killing five soldiers, three vigilantes and one Civilian JTF, while 19 soldiers and 1 Civilian JTF sustained various degrees of injuries. The acting Director Army of Public Relations, Colonel Sani Usman, said the bodies of the late soldiers and civilians were evacuated to Maiduguri while the injured were receiving medical care and were in stable condition. He added that the troops destroyed the terrorists gun truck and recovered two anti-aircraft guns, 2 spare gun barrels, 1 General Purpose Machine Gun, one rocket propelled grenade, 1 AK-47 Rifle and 320 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. The troops have been mobilized into blocking positions to further neutralize fleeing Boko Haram terrorists, he further stated.

Troops Intercept Boko Haram Logistics Supplier

Troops of Operation Lafiya Dole, October 30, also intercepted suspected Boko Haram terrorists’ drugs and logistics suppliers from Firgi and Zawan axis in Bama LGA of Borno State. The suppliers were intercepted at a suspected Boko Haram terrorists crossing point into Sambisa forest. Acting Director Army, Public Relations, Colonel Sani Usman, said the troops pursued them but were only able to apprehend one Kadiri Umate (35), while others fled into the bush. He said the patrol team recovered 35 packets of 500ml of Glucose Intravenous infusion (Drip), assorted analgesics and pain killer drugs, clothes, bathroom slippers, insecticides, salt, Kola nuts and a bicycle. The suspect is undergoing preliminary investigations. In a related incident, another suspected Boko Haram logistics and fuel supplier, Fantoma Lasani was arrested by troops in conjunction with Civilian JTF at Muna garage as he tried to relocate out of Maiduguri. The suspect is among some unpatriotic elements in the society that had been supplying Boko Haram terrorists with Premium Motor Spirit and Automotive Gas Oil in Bama, Gwoza and Sambisa general area.

240 Boko Haram Terrorists Surrender to MNJTF

About 240 Boko Haram members have defected and surrendered to the military following the sustained offensive operations and blockage of logistics supply routes by the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), the military revealed. The Chief Military Public Information Officer, Colonel Muhammad Dole, November 1, said that it was a result of the sustained offensive that the Boko Haram suspects and their families abandoned their locations and surrendered with their arms to the nearest locations of the ground forces in the operation areas. He said that the recent wave of mass defection took place in Sector 2 Area of Responsibility (AOR) Bagasola in Chad. Some of them surrendered with arms and ammunition, and are being profiled and camped in Bagasola.

Car Bomb Kills 8 Suspected Boko Haram in Maiduguri

A truck conveying eight suspected Boko Haram Islamists exploded near a military checkpoint in Maiduguri on November 1, killing the occupants. The open truck burst into flames when the explosives concealed in it went off as the insurgents were trying to escape from a military checkpoint, according to the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Usman. He revealed that the insurgents had attempted to detonate at a checkpoint but were denied access by troops and as they turned back, it exploded killing all the eight occupants. The checkpoint was the last security post leading out of Maiduguri towards the town of Gubio which was liberated from Boko Haram fighters last year.

Troops Intercept Suspected Boko Haram Insurgents in Borno

Troops of 8 Task Force Division, Nigerian Army, November 3, intercepted a group of suspected Boko Haram insurgents allegedly on a mission to loot logistics supplies in surrounding villages. The Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, said the troops were patrolling the Monguno-Brimari road when the incident occurred. According to him, the insurgents engaged the troops in a shootout that lasted for about fifteen minutes before they were overpowered by the superior fire power of the patrol. In the encounter, 2 insurgents were neutralised and their weapons including one FN rifle loaded with a magazine of 10 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one AK 47 rifle with 3 magazines were captured. Also recovered from the insurgents were 2 motorcycles, drugs, wrappers and clothes, he added.

Troops Rescue 38 Women, Children from Boko Haram

Troops have rescued 38 women and children held by Boko Haram in military operation to clear pockets of “insurgents hiding” in the border areas of northern Borno State. The troops neutralised six Boko Haram insurgents, while others fled with gunshot wounds, and abandoned 22 motorcycles, flags and other items. The Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 8 Task Force Division, Col. Onyema Nwachukwu, who disclosed this on November 2, said that troops of the 8 Task Force Division of Nigerian Army cleared pockets of insurgents from their hideouts in Momo and Tunshe villages around Marte general area of Borno state. The troops rescued 19 women and 19 children held by the terrorists.

Troops Kill Three Suicide Bombers, Two Others in Borno

The troops of the Nigerian Army have killed three suicide bombers and two other members of the Boko Haram Sect in Borno State. The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, November 4, disclosed that one of the suicide bombers, a female, was killed while attempting to penetrate a military location at Yamtake in Gwoza LGA of Borno State. He said that the female suicide bomber was gunned down by a vigilant sentry who spotted her. According to him, the troops also killed four attackers comprising two suicide bombers and two other insurgents in another shootout. Usman also disclosed that a soldier was killed in the second attack by the insurgents. Usman said that the troops recovered two AK47 rifles, three magazines, some ammunition and other items from the insurgents.

Political/Government Agencies

Murder/Assassination

Ritualists Kill 12-Year-Old Boy in Imo

A 12-year-old boy in Umudike in Dikenafai community in Ideato South Council Area of Imo State was killed by suspected ritualists, who also removed his vital organs. The boy, identified only as Ikenna, a primary four pupil, had gone to school on October 27 but disappeared during the lunch break. It was learnt that when he did not return home after school hours, his father and other villagers, raised the alarm. They also organised a search party but efforts made to find the missing boy proved futile until his corpse was found the following day. His corpse was discovered beside the office of the headmaster of his school with his penis, tongue, kidney and liver removed.

Kogi Police Hunt for Killers of Chairman of Cattle Association

The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Abdullahi Chafe, October 30, said the command is hunting for the killers of the Chairman of the state chapter of the Miyetti-Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Alhaji Ibrahim Abubakar. Abubakar popularly known as Jalido, was killed by unidentified gunmen that stormed his Lokoja residence at about 2am on October 29. The Police boss said that his men were working round the clock to arrest the killers and bring them to book. He appealed to the Fulani people to remain calm and not to take the law into their hands and remain peaceful as he appealed to anybody with useful information to report to the command.

Nine Miners Die in Niger State

Nine miners have been reported dead in Kaffinkoro town in the Paikoro LGA of Niger State. It was learnt that seven of the miners were buried alive while they searched for gold while the two others were reportedly shot dead during a protest between the villagers and the police. After the first seven miners died, it was gathered that villagers and other miners reportedly mobilised to attack the security men that were posted to the area to stop the illegal mining. It was gathered that gunshots were fired and two of the miners were hit resulting in their death. A police source claimed that the miners were armed with dangerous weapons and that they were the first to attack the security men.

Delta Police Arrest 6 for Murder

The Police in Delta State have arrested six persons in connection with the killing of one Onwelagu Ochonogor, and burying him in a shallow grave. The event followed a communal crisis between Umuaja and Obeti communities in Ukwani LGA of the state. The State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zanna, who made the disclosure, said the 47-year-old Ochonogor, an indigene of Obeti community, was reported missing on October 24. Investigation revealed that the Ochonogor was killed and buried in a shallow grave opposite a shrine at Umuaja. A combined team of policemen and JTF visited the site and exhumed the corpse, while six suspects were arrested in connection with the dastardly act. The CP said the case was under investigation.

Cattle Rustlers on Rampage, Kill 5 in Niger State

At least five people were killed when cattle rustlers invaded Gbada community in Kaure village in Shiroro LGA of Niger state on October 31. According to an eyewitness, the rustlers numbering about 30 and armed with sophisticated weapons, stormed the community at about 3am when the villagers were asleep, making it impossible for them to defend themselves. A large number of cattle, sheep and goats were thereafter rustled, according to the eyewitness. The Senator representing Niger East senatorial zone, Mr David Umaru, called on security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

Men in Military Uniforms Attack Kaduna Village, Kill Seven

Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen in Army uniforms, November 3, invaded the Ungwar Missi village in Jema’a LGA Kaduna State, killing seven persons while several others were wounded. Among those killed were an 85-year-old District Head of the village, John Zango and an 80-year-old man, Yakubu Abuja. The Kaduna State Police Command confirmed the attack but said only four persons lost their lives. Police spokesman, Aliyu Usman, who confirmed the attack, said the police had since commenced investigation into the matter. It was learnt that the group, in army uniforms, came to Ungwar Missi village and called out the Village Head, John Zogo, and the elders of the village for what they claimed to be security briefing on the situation in the area. But as men in military uniforms started discussing with the village head and the elders, there were gunshots on the outskirts of the village. As soon as the gunshot were heard, the impostors opened fire and killed the village head and some others person before they fled.

Two Beheaded in Rivers

Unknown gunmen, October 30, stormed Kong community in Khana LGA of Rivers State and killed two persons before they severed and took their heads away. It was gathered that the assailants were cult members, who had gone after those perceived to be members of a rival cult group. The Caretaker Committee Chairman of Khana LGA, Baridam Suani, cautioned that his government would no longer tolerate the destruction of lives in the area. Police Public Relations Officer, Nnamdi Omoni, said it was a clash between two rival cult groups. Omoni explained that the hoodlums stormed the community at about 11.30pm and engaged in a supremacy battle with a rival cult group, adding that two youths were killed during the clash.

Cultist Murdered, Youths Raze Houses in Anambra

A suspected member of Aye confraternity was, October 31, shot dead by a rival cult group in Nkpor, Idemili North LGA of Anambra State, while two houses, including a prayer ministry were razed. It was gathered that the deceased was shot dead by his assailants, who laid ambush for him near his home. Youths in the area were said to have immediately mobilised and set the family house of one of the rival cult members suspected to be behind the killing, ablaze. A prayer house located believed to be where the parents of one of the killer cultists worships, was also set ablaze.

4 Killed in Kwara Cultists Clash

Four persons were feared killed during a clash between rival cult members in Ilorin, Kwara State. The clash between the rival cultists started on October 31 at the Gaa-Akanbi area of the metropolis when suspected rival cult members killed a young man. Following a reprisal attack, the violence spread to Ipata Market and Kankatu areas of Ilorin on November 1, where two persons were killed by suspected cultists. In continuation of the attacks, another person was hacked to death by the rampaging cult members on November 2 in Odoota area of the metropolis. Police spokesman, Ajayi Okasanmi, confirmed the incident at Gaa-Akanbi, adding that he was yet to get information regarding the other incidents in the metropolis.

Rape

Man Docked for Defiling Friend’s 10-Year-Old Daughter

A middle aged man, Godwin Itta, was October 31, arraigned before an Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly defiling his friend’s 10-year-old daughter. Itta is facing a charge of defilement. The prosecutor, Sergeant Rafael Donny, told the court that Itta committed the offence on October 22 at Jibowu Street, Orile Agege during a visit to his friend’s house. The victim was the only person the accused met at home at the time. The accused allegedly pulled the girl on the floor and raped her. The accused entered a not-guilty plea. The chief magistrate, Mrs Badejo Okusanya, granted the accused to a bail of N500, 000 with two sureties in like sum. She adjourned the case to December 12 for mention.

60-Year-Old in Court over Rape of 8-Year-Old Girl

A 60-year-old man, Isah Nalabbo, was, October 31, remanded in prison custody till December 12, 2016 for rape. The suspect is facing a one-count charge of alleged rape of an eight-year-old girl at Bauche village in the Safana LGA of Katsina state. The victim’s father, Ado Dabiru, reported the incident at Safana Divisional Police headquarters, claiming that Nalabbo, who is his neighbour, committed the offence on May 11, 2016.

Man Arrested For Raping, Impregnating 15-Year-Old Stepdaughter

A 40-year-old man, Victor Emafolomi, has been detained by the police for allegedly raping his wife’s 15-year-old daughter and impregnating her. The suspect was apprehended on October 30 by the police from the Agbado division after the mother of the victim reported the case. Emafolomi was said to have raped Keji on two occasions in October, threatening to kill her if she informed her mother. The suspect left home after the second encounter and did not return until about two weeks later. Keji was said to have confided in her mother about her ordeal. However, the suspect refuted the allegations. The Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Ambibola Oyeyemi, said the case would be transferred to the command’s headquarters for further investigation.

Man Allegedly Inserts Manhood in 11-Year-Old Girl’s Mouth

A 20-year-old teacher, Lekan Eniolobo, was, November 1 arraigned before Magistrate B. O. Osunsanmi of an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court for allegedly sexually assaulting an 11-year-old girl. The accused was alleged to have inserted his penis into the mouth of the girl. Eniolobo was alleged to have committed the offence on October 21 at Isheri Osun area in Lagos. The suspect, who pleaded not guilty, is standing a count charge of assault. According to the prosecutor, Inspector S. Imhonwa, the offence committed was punishable under Section 261 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011. The magistrate granted him N500,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case until January 12, 2017 for DPP’s advice.

Man, 40, Rapes, Impregnates 12-Year-Old Wife’s Niece

A 40-year-old man, Livinus Andoma, has been arraigned before Gudu Upper Area Court for allegedly raping and impregnating a 12-year-old girl, who is the niece of his wife. According to a prosecution witness, in April 2015, the accused allegedly lured the girl into his bedroom, raped her and threatened to kill her, if she disclosed the incident to anyone. Andoma allegedly continued to rape the girl until she became pregnant. In what appeared to be a mild drama, one Moses Anukia, told the court that the same matter had been filed at an FCT High Court; arguing that the Upper Area Court could not entertain the suit. However, the presiding judge of Gudu Upper Area Court, directed the prosecution team to find out the true position of the matter and report back.

Others

Police Arrest Suspects with Human Skull

Three men in possession of two human skulls have been arrested at a hideout in Ogbomoso, Oyo State. The state Commissioner of Police, Samuel Adegbuyi, October 30, said the arrest was made after the police received information from members of the public, who had raised the alarm that the suspects were dealing in human parts. The suspects include Ramoni Akeem (41), Azeez Ojelade (36), and Salimon Salami (40). Akeem said he paid N10, 000 for the skulls and that Salami was the vendor. Salami, who claimed to have discovered the corpses, denied any wrongdoing. According to him, he discovered the corpse on a large piece of land that he was contracted to work on. He added that he told a friend, who advised him to continue with his work while he looked for what to do with the corpses. He disclosed that he later got a buyer and dismembered the heads, which he sold.

Kerosene Explosion Kills 2 Children, Injures Father

A kerosene explosion left two children dead, while three other persons, including the father of the children, Nsikak Michael, suffered severe burns in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Michael, a father of three and tricycle operator, who also has a poultry farm in Ikot Enyingne Ikono, said he bought the kerosene from a filling station while returning from work. According to him, he needed to use the lantern to keep his birds warm, and decided to add more kerosene to the lamp, which was already on when the explosion occurred.

Troops Arrest Fake Officer in Ondo

The Nigerian Army has arrested an impostor, Mike Ajulo, parading himself as an Army officer in Ose LGA of Ondo State. Captain Ojo Adenegan, the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, October 29, said that the fake Army officer, Mike Ajulo, was arrested on October 28. His arrest was sequel to reported cases of Land Issues and other criminal activities against him. He added that the suspect was still under investigation and would be charged to court after the investigation.

Tension as Herdsmen Battle Delta Community Again

There is apprehension in Umunor community, Ossissa Kingdom in the Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State following an exchange of gun fire between suspected Fulani herdsmen and youths from the area on October 31. It was learnt that the exchange of gun shots followed a failed attempt by some suspected herdsmen to invade the community. The prompt intervention of security agencies prevented an escalation of the hostilities. The council chairman, Mrs. Nkechi Chukwurah, confirmed the shooting in the area but said security men had been deployed in the area to curtail further hostilities between both parties.

Sharia Police Nab Woman Who Dumped New-born

A middle aged woman has been arrested and detained by the Police in Jigawa State for dumping her new baby boy in a refuse dump. The State Commandant of the Hisbah Guards, Malam Sa’idu Aliyu, November 1, said that the suspect was arrested on October 29. Hisbah is the Sharia Law enforcement agency in the state. According to Aliyu, the woman dumped the baby in Shuwarin Village in Kiyawa LGA of the state. The commandant said that the baby was picked by a `good Samaritan’, who took him to the district head of the community and later reported the incident to the police. According to Aliyu, upon receiving the report, Hisbah deployed its intelligence officers to fish out the mother of the baby. He said the suspect had been handed over to the Police for further action.

Woman Batters Niece over Grandmother’s Welfare

Police in Bayelsa State have arrested a woman for allegedly battering a 13-year-old girl over her refusal to care for her 84-year-old grandmother. The teenage girl, Hope Chime, was accused of neglecting her grandmother and playing with her peers. It was gathered that the incident, which occurred on October 30 at the Azikoro suburb of Yenagoa, caused pandemonium as neighbours battled to prevent the victim from bleeding to death. While some rushed the victim to the hospital, others quickly contacted the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), who promptly alerted the police. The victim’s aunty, simply identified as Beauty, attacked the girl with sharp iron rod for refusing to take care of the aged mother. The accused was in the custody of the police, while processes to file charges against her in court were ongoing.

Review/Analysis

Terrorism took an upward plunge on the crime index. Attacks by the Boko Haram sect claimed several lives as series of bomb attacks were recorded in Borno State. A twin bomb attack claimed 9 lives in Maiduguri, while 8 persons, suspected to be Boko Haram members died in a car explosion, when they could not get to their target. Military operatives are increasingly killed in Boko Haram ambush. In one of such incidents, the terrorists ambushed and killed five soldiers, three vigilantes and one Civilian JTF. However, it was cheering as military troops were able to rescue some victims who were held hostage by terrorist groups, while several Boko Haram members were equally killed. Despite the seeming losses, the military remains committed to its vow to end insurgency in north-east.

Robbery incidents were also high as daredevil gunmen attacked, robbed and even killed unsuspecting victims. Hoodlums, camouflaged in military attires, used dynamite and welding tools to break into a bank’s vault in Delta State and carted away huge sum of money. In Benin, a group of robbers, dressed as SARS operatives, trailed a Bureau de Change operator and snatch about N11 million at gunpoint. It was alarmingly as daring robbers attacked courts in Makurdi, holding a judge hostage and looting the facilities. Security agents remained formidable in the arrest of criminal gangs across the country, while some were charged to court. These were recorded across various regions of the country.

Kidnap/hostage also stood tall on the index as security operatives made notable arrest of suspects while rescuing victims. Two suspects were killed by soldiers after a gun fight to rescue a 16-year-old boy. It was also a relief for a school girl as she was rescued by a vigilant street hawker from being kidnapped by a man. It was, however, disgraceful for two policemen who were arrested in connection with the alleged kidnap of a businessman. The south-south and south-west witnessed more of this crimes.

Murder and assassination incidents were vastly recorded. Most of the killings were solely orchestrated, while invasion by herdsmen and cult clashed linger. Two persons were gruesomely killed in Rivers State, with their heads severed and taken away. A 12-year-old school boy was also killed in an incident feared to be a ritual as his vital organs were removed. The police made arrests of some suspects, while a manhunt is to apprehend other killers. The south-east, and north-central regions witnessed these incidents.

Activities of militant groups saw a slight spike even as security agencies team up to stem the tide. Different militant groups persistently bomb oil facilities. Arrest of suspects were made, while some others were killed in battles with the military. The Niger Delta region suffers as the government find more ways of settling the lingering problems.

Rape cases, in recent times, have become rampant, especially rape of minors. Some of the culprits have been arrested and charged to court. The prevalence remains worrisome as young girls are continually defiled by close relatives and trusted persons.

Remain watchful and law abiding. Your security is priority.