Massive Gunrunning Syndicate Busted as Police Arrest Thousands in Major Crime Operation

Segun Atanda/

In a nationwide crackdown on crime, the Nigeria Police Force has arrested 2,740 suspects linked to various criminal activities within the past month, including armed robbery, kidnapping, homicide, sexual offenses, and unlawful possession of firearms.

NewsmakersNG learnt that the arrests were part of ongoing efforts by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to curb rising crime across the country.

According to a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, a total of 295 armed robbery suspects, 186 kidnappers, and 271 murder suspects were among those apprehended. The police also arrested 199 suspects involved in sexual offenses, 143 cultists, and 1,575 others linked to various other crimes.

The police force also reported the recovery of 185 firearms, over 4,000 rounds of ammunition, 111 vehicles, and the rescue of 129 kidnapped victims during the operation.

Adejobi added that officers dismantled a major gunrunning syndicate operating in the Bauchi-Plateau region. Five suspects, including the leader of the group, Taimako Mato, a former weapon-handling instructor at a Boko Haram camp, were arrested. The syndicate was found in possession of a PKT machine gun and large quantities of ammunition, allegedly being sold to various criminal groups.

The IGP has reassured the public of the police’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property, implementing new strategies to combat crime. The Force urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement to help establish a safer environment for all.

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