Kebbi State: Kidnappers Neutralized, Victim Rescued
In a series of successful operations, the Nigeria Police Force has killed nine suspected terrorists and recovered 23 arms and ammunition across different parts of the country. According to a statement released on Sunday by Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the operations targeted criminal hideouts in Kebbi and Imo States, resulting in significant breakthroughs.
In Kebbi State, armed men invaded Gobiraje Village in Suru Local Government Area on February 14, 2025, abducting 60-year-old Umaru Bawa. Police operatives attached to the Kebbi State Command tracked the kidnappers to Tundafari Forest in the Dakingari axis, engaging them in a fierce gun battle.
“Four of the kidnappers were neutralized, and one was arrested with fatal injuries. The kidnapped victim was rescued unhurt,” the statement revealed. Additionally, the police recovered N3 million paid as ransom to the kidnappers.
Imo State: IPOB/ESN Camp Dislodged
Earlier, on February 8, 2025, police operatives in Imo State, in collaboration with other security agencies, carried out a tactical operation targeting an IPOB/ESN terrorist camp in Ezioha Mbaitolu, Umuele Umuaka Njaba Local Government Area.
The operation led to the neutralization of two ESN kingpins and the recovery of seven AK-47 rifles, 13 pump-action guns, and hundreds of assorted live ammunition. The camp was successfully dislodged, dealing a significant blow to the terrorist group’s operations in the region.
Further Success in Nkwukwo Forest
On February 9, 2025, the police team moved to Nkwukwo Forest in Mbaitoli LGA, near the boundary with Ubachima Forest in Awomama Oru West LGA. There, they intercepted a group of terrorists who opened fire upon sighting the operatives.
“During the ensuing exchange, three terrorist kingpins were neutralized,” the statement said. The police also recovered two AK-47 rifles (each loaded with 36 rounds of live ammunition), one pump-action gun, one cutlass, four motorcycles, and various criminal charms.
Why This Matters
These operations highlight the Nigeria Police Force’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities across the country. The recovery of arms and ammunition, along with the neutralization of key terrorist figures, is a significant step toward restoring peace and security in affected regions.
What’s Next?
The police have assured the public of their commitment to sustaining these operations and ensuring the safety of all citizens. As security forces continue to dismantle criminal networks, communities are encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.