At least 22 alleged armed robbers, kidnappers, cultists, and thugs who attacked people and engaged in criminal activity during the ongoing Christmas holidays have been apprehended by Nigeria officers in various states.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this on Friday.
According to the statement, police officers assigned to Lagos State Command received a distress call at around 1 am on Christmas Day, informing them that criminals carrying hazardous weapons were operating in the Safejo neighbourhood of Amukoko, Lagos State.
He said that three suspects—Emmanuel Okoli, Ogunde Tejiri, and Emmanuel Orji—were arrested at the location.
According to the Force PRO, firearms used by the suspects to rob innocent bystanders were also recovered.
He mentioned that the police had stepped up their searches in an effort to capture the fleeing suspects.
Similarly, at around 8 p.m on Christmas day, police officers from the Kaduna State Command’s Saminaka Division apprehended Sule Muhammad for kidnapping activities in the Saminaka region.
A fake AK-47 rifle was found on the suspect.
“The suspect confessed to being a member of a notorious kidnapping gang who had been evading arrest since the arrest of other gang members on August 16, 2024, until his recent arrest on 25th December 2024.
“Following cooperation received from Muhammad, efforts are in top gear to apprehend other members of his gang and recover more arms and ammunition in their identified camp.
“Commendable efforts of the Nigeria Police Operatives have also been witnessed in states including Delta, Ogun Katsina, Benue, FCT and Imo, leading to the arrests of several suspects in various locations during the Christmas celebration period.
“The IGP has commended the officers involved in these operations for their vigilance and commitment to public safety, highlighting their display of exemplary dedication in safeguarding our communities, especially during this joyful season.
“The IGP urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities,” the statement added.