Police arrest 23 suspected criminals, recover weapons At Christmas Funfare

By Oluwakemi Kindness

The Nigeria Police Force says its operatives across several states in the country have apprehended armed robbers, cultists and hoodlums targeting fun seekers and engaging in gangsterism during Christmas celebration.

The arrests was at the instance of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to commands and formations to emplace unalloyed anti crime strategies towards ensuring adequate safety and security during this festive period.

A statement on Friday December 25, 2024, says at about 1:am, the police operatives attached to Lagos State Command, received a distress call that a group of hoodlums armed with dangerous weapons was operating around the Safejo area of Amukoko.

The statement signed by the Police Spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, explains that swift response by police operatives to the scene led to the arrest of 3 of the suspected hoodlums identified as Emmanuel Okoli ‘male’, 20 years, Ogunde Tejiri ‘male’, 20 years, and Emmanuel Orji ‘male’, 18 years.

The Police also recovered various weapons from them, used in carrying out robbery attacks on innocent funseekers in the area.

According to the statement, the police says it has intensified searches to apprehend the other fleeing members of the gang.

In a related development, Police Operatives attached to Saminaka Division of Kaduna State Command on December 25, 2024, at about 8pm, also apprehended one Sule Muhammad ‘male’, 25 years, who have been actively involved in multiple kidnapping incidents within the area.

Further investigation led to the recovery of a fabricated AK-47 rifle from the suspect.

The statement says 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.

It says commendable efforts of the Nigeria Police Operatives has 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.

Meanwhile, 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 the communities, especially during this festive season.

The IGP urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities, while assuring citizens of the Force committment to creating a safe environment for everyone throughout the festivities and beyond

“As the celebrations continue, the Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to protect all citizens and ensure that the spirit of festivities during this period remains unmarred by criminal activities”, he added.

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