In a bold and strategic offensive against violent and organized crime, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has recorded significant victories in its ongoing battle to restore security across the country. Through well-coordinated intelligence-driven operations, police operatives neutralized seven terrorists, arrested a high-profile suspect, rescued a kidnapped victim, and recovered a cache of arms, ammunition, and ransom money.
On February 14, 2025, a group of armed criminals stormed Gobiraje Village in Suru LGA, Kebbi State, abducting Umaru Bawa, a 60-year-old resident. Swiftly responding to the attack, operatives of the Kebbi State Police Command launched a manhunt, tracking the kidnappers to Tundafari Forest in the Dakingari axis. A fierce gun battle ensued, culminating in the neutralization of four kidnappers and the fatal injury of another, who was later apprehended.
In a major breakthrough, officers recovered ₦3 million in cash, which had already been paid as ransom to the kidnappers. Thanks to the swift and tactical response, the kidnapped victim was rescued unharmed, marking yet another victory for law enforcement in the fight against banditry and terrorism.
In a separate operation, on February 8, 2025, police operatives in Imo State, in collaboration with other security agencies, stormed a notorious IPOB/ESN terrorist hideout in Ezioha Mbaitolu, within Umuele Umuaka Njaba LGA. The raid led to the neutralization of two high-ranking terrorist kingpins, the recovery of a massive weapons cache, and the complete dismantling of their operational camp. Seized items included:
✅ 7 AK-47 rifles
✅ 13 pump-action guns
✅ Hundreds of live rounds of assorted ammunition
As part of a follow-up operation on February 9, 2025, officers pursued the fleeing insurgents to Nkwukwo Forest in Mbaitoli LGA, near the Ubachima Forest in Awomama Oru West LGA. There, security forces engaged another group of terrorists in a gunfight, leading to the elimination of three more top IPOB/ESN fighters. Additional weapons, motorcycles, and criminal charms were seized, including:
✅ 2 AK-47 rifles (each loaded with 36 rounds of live ammunition)
✅ 1 pump-action gun
✅ 1 cutlass
✅ 4 motorcycles
✅ Various criminal charms
These operations highlight the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering resolve to dismantle criminal networks and ensure national security. The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has commended the gallantry of the officers involved and reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its mission to neutralize threats, protect citizens, and reinforce public trust in security institutions,” the IGP stated. He further emphasized the importance of community engagement, intelligence gathering, and proactive crime prevention strategies.
The NPF urges Nigerians to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security agencies in the fight against crime. These victories mark a significant step towards a safer, more secure Nigeria.
Official Statement
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra, fCAI
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
February 16, 2025
PIONEER NEWS 