By Deborah Nnamdi
The Nigeria Police Force has neutralized seven terrorists and recovered 23 firearms, along with assorted ammunition, in recent operations across the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday via X, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the operations were part of efforts to dismantle criminal networks and enhance internal security.
The statement noted that on February 14, 2025, armed men invaded Gobiraje Village in Suru Local Government Area of Kebbi State and kidnapped a 60-year-old man, Umaru Bawa.
Police operatives in Kebbi State trailed the suspects to Tundafari Forest in the Dakingari axis, where they engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel, killing four of them and arresting one with fatal injuries. The victim was rescued unhurt, and the sum of N3 million, already paid as ransom, was recovered.
Similarly, on 8 February 2025, police operatives in Imo State, in collaboration with other security agencies, raided an IPOB/ESN terrorist camp in Ezioha Mbaitolu, Umuele Umuaka, Njaba LGA. Two ESN kingpins were neutralized, and security forces recovered seven AK-47 rifles, 13 pump-action guns, and hundreds of rounds of live ammunition.
“As a follow-up, on 9 February 2025, the operatives moved to Nkwukwo Forest in Mbaitoli LGA, near the boundary with Ubachima Forest in Awomama Oru West LGA, Imo State, where they intercepted a group of terrorists who opened fire upon sighting the police.
During the ensuing exchange, three terrorist kingpins were further neutralized. Two AK-47 rifles, each loaded with 36 rounds of live ammunition, one pump-action gun, one cutlass, four motorcycles, and various criminal charms were also recovered.
“These operations not only reflect the Force’s commitment to maintaining law and order but also demonstrate its determination to dismantle criminal networks that threaten the safety of citizens.
“The Force assures members of the public that these operations will continue with renewed vigor as it strives to ensure a safer environment for all Nigerians. As part of these ongoing efforts, the IGP has called for increased intelligence gathering, community engagement, and prompt reporting of suspicious activities by citizens. The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to protecting lives and property, reinforcing community trust, and fostering a peaceful and secure nation,” the statement added.
