AISHA ABUBAKAR
The Nigeria Police Force Special Tactical Squad (STS) has recorded notable operational successes following a series of intelligence-led operations across several states in Nigeria, leading to the arrest of twenty-two (22) suspects linked to serious criminal activities.
The suspects were apprehended for offences including armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, cattle rustling, car snatching, economic sabotage, impersonation and drug trafficking.
During the operations, the Squad recovered six (6) firearms comprising one LAR rifle, one pump-action gun, one AK-49 rifle, one AK-47 rifle and one SMG rifle, as well as two (2) live rounds of ammunition. In addition, forty-five (45) other exhibits were recovered, including vehicles, motorcycles, illicit drugs and other items reasonably suspected to have been used in the commission of crime.
In a major operation along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway, STS operatives intercepted a J5 vehicle conveying thirteen (13) brand-new motorcycles, alongside weapons and other incriminating items. Further investigations into the matter led to the arrest of a 35-year-old suspect, Luke Ifeanyi, in connection with armed robbery and economic sabotage.
Closely related operations within the Federal Capital Territory also resulted in the arrest of a Kuje Custodial Centre escapee, Ayo Abiodun, who is suspected to have violently robbed a serving Nigerian Army officer. In another development, a 40-year-old suspect, Yusuf Shehu, was arrested, from whom a stolen tricycle was recovered. Investigation revealed that Shehu was impersonating a Police officer, and recovered in his possession are a pair of Police Mobile uniform and a Police identity card. More so, STS operatives intercepted a vehicle conveying large quantities of leaves suspected to be cannabis and other controlled substances.
Elsewhere, in Edo State, four (4) suspects were arrested for unlawful possession of prohibited firearms and for alleged violent attacks on a community. In Lagos and Ogun States, two (2) suspects linked to a car-snatching syndicate were apprehended.
Additionally, in Nasarawa and other neighbouring States, twelve (12) suspects, namely Mohammed Isa, John Baba, Musa Iliyasu, Rabiu Hussaini, Mohammed Abdullahi, Adamu Hassan, Usman Mohammed, Umar Musa, Muhammadu Ahmad, Inusa Adamu, Shuaibu Mohammed, and Sulaiman Dabo, connected to banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling were arrested, with several firearms recovered during the operations.
Investigations into all the cases are ongoing, and the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations, in line with extant laws.
Meanwhile, commending the operatives of the Special Tactical Squad for their courage and professionalism, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, emphasised that these successes reflect the Force’s dedication to protecting lives, disrupting criminal networks, and ensuring public safety. He urged the public to provide credible information to support the Police in the fight against crime and criminality across Nigeria.