Nigeria Police Force Achieves Major Breakthrough in Firearms Recovery and Criminal Arrests
The Nigeria Police Force has made significant strides in countering gunrunning and curtailing the proliferation of prohibited firearms and ammunition across the nation.
Recent operations have resulted in the recovery of 360 illegal firearms and 5,952 rounds of various live ammunition, along with the arrest of 5,936 suspects linked to multiple offenses.
During a press briefing today, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force’s Public Relations Officer, highlighted the successful outcomes of these initiatives.
Among the numerous arrests, the breakdown includes 715 suspects for armed robbery, 306 for kidnapping, and 533 individuals suspected of murder and homicide.
Additionally, 149 people were arrested for unlawful possession of firearms, 371 for sexual offenses, and 590 suspected cultists, alongside 3,272 other individuals involved in various criminal activities.
These operations have not only led to the apprehension of a diverse range of suspects but also facilitated the rescue of victims and the recovery of dangerous weaponry.
A noteworthy case involved the arrest of Jane Anodua, prompted by a report from the Plateau State Ministry of Women Affairs regarding the increasing incidents of child abduction and trafficking. In response, operatives swiftly apprehended Anodua in Rivers State, who provided vital information leading to the safe recovery of two abducted ten-year-old girls, as well as additional children she had trafficked.
Another significant operation on July 13, 2025, saw the arrest of Tanfa Binbol, a suspected gunrunner active between Taraba and Plateau States. His capture resulted in the seizure of three AK-47 rifles, five pistols, and one pump-action rifle.
Furthermore, through credible intelligence, IRT operatives arrested Jerauji Ibrahim in Adamawa State, recovering two AK-47 rifles and ammunition.
The Intelligence Response Team has successfully uncovered a range of firearms, including various rifles and locally manufactured weapons from several criminal hideouts.
DCP Adejobi reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering commitment to combat crime and enhance public safety.
He emphasized that these ongoing efforts are a testament to the Force’s dedicated mandate to protect the nation from the adverse impacts of organized crime and gun violence
