Police smash terror, kidnap syndicates nationwide, arrest 50 suspects, recover anti-aircraft launcher, 17 rifles

By Johnson Arua

The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a major operational breakthrough in its nationwide fight against violent crime, arresting 50 suspects linked to terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, and other organized criminal activities, while also recovering a significant cache of sophisticated weapons, including an anti-aircraft launcher and 17 rifles.

The development was announced on during a press briefing at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) Headquarters in Abuja.

According to the Force, the coordinated operations carried out by FID-IRT operatives form part of an ongoing strategic crackdown on criminal syndicates responsible for insecurity across several parts of the country.

From January 2026 to date, the Police said its intelligence-led operations led to the dismantling of multiple criminal cells and the recovery of a substantial arsenal of weapons and operational equipment.

The recovered items include 17 rifles of various types, one anti-aircraft launcher, 111 rounds of live ammunition, 17 live cartridges, nine magazines, five walkie-talkies allegedly used for coordination among suspects, three mobile phones, and a Toyota Golf vehicle.

One of the most notable achievements, according to the Police, was the dismantling of a 33-member gang involved in terrorism, cattle rustling, and a deadly attack on the Christ Apostolic Church in Kwara State.

The Force also confirmed the arrest of suspects linked to the killing of three police officers attached to the Donga Divisional Headquarters in Taraba State, describing the development as a step toward securing justice for slain officers.

In another operation within the Federal Capital Territory and surrounding states, operatives reportedly arrested members of criminal groups involved in “one-chance” robbery syndicates, vehicle burglary, and the operation of fake police checkpoints used to defraud and abduct unsuspecting members of the public.

The Police further disclosed the arrest of one Nasiru Ibrahim, 25, in possession of an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and eight rounds of live ammunition.

Preliminary investigations reportedly revealed that the suspect operated around the Igumale axis of Benue State and was allegedly connected to a notorious arms dealer identified as “Janari,” who is believed to have supplied the weapon.

Efforts, the Police added, are ongoing to apprehend the said arms dealer and other members of the syndicate still at large.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the commitment of the Force to sustaining the offensive against criminal elements, noting that the recent breakthroughs reflect the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and inter-agency collaboration.

He assured that suspects already in custody would be prosecuted in competent courts, while operations to track down fleeing accomplices and recover more illegal arms would continue nationwide.

Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, said the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to safeguarding lives and property, emphasizing the deployment of both human intelligence and advanced technical capabilities to stay ahead of criminal networks.