Nigeria Police Arrest Over 50 Suspects, Recover Cache of Arms in Nationwide Operations
The Nigeria Police Force has announced the arrest of no fewer than 50 suspects and the recovery of a significant cache of arms, ammunition, and other exhibits in a series of coordinated operations targeting criminal networks and hideouts across the country. This development was disclosed by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, during a press briefing held on April 13, 2026, at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) Headquarters in Guzape, Abuja.
Intelligence-Driven Operations Yield Results
According to DCP Placid, the arrests are part of ongoing efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to dismantle kidnapping syndicates, gunrunning networks, and other organised criminal groups operating nationwide. Between January and April 2026, operatives of the FID-IRT carried out multiple intelligence-driven operations, leading to the apprehension of suspects linked to kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, and other violent crimes.
"In total, seven major cases were recorded, resulting in the arrest of 50 suspects and the recovery of 17 rifles, 111 rounds of live ammunition, 17 cartridges, magazines, communication devices, vehicles, and other exhibits," he stated.
Highlights of Key Cases
Among the cases highlighted was the arrest of a suspect identified as Musa Jibrin for unlawful possession of firearms. Police recovered an FNC rifle and a magazine from him, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend his fleeing accomplice.
In another operation in Benue State, four members of an armed robbery syndicate were arrested for allegedly mounting fake police checkpoints to rob unsuspecting members of the public. Recovered items included locally fabricated firearms and a Police Mobile Force uniform used as a disguise.
The police also arrested four suspects along the Dei-Dei/Kubwa Expressway in Abuja over alleged involvement in abduction, "one-chance" robbery, and extortion. Items recovered from the suspects included a vehicle, mobile phones, and cash believed to be proceeds of crime.
Breakthroughs in Violent Crimes and Terrorism
In Taraba State, three suspects were apprehended in connection with the killing of three police officers in Donga Local Government Area. Investigations linked the suspects to other violent attacks in the area.
A major breakthrough was also recorded following the arrest of 33 suspects linked to terrorism, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and arms trafficking across Kwara and Kogi states. The operation followed the 2025 attack on a church in Eruku, Kwara State. Recovered items included AK-47 rifles, magazines, an anti-aircraft launcher, and communication devices.
Similarly, a suspect was arrested in Benue State for illegal possession of an AK-47 rifle, while another suspect was apprehended in Abuja for alleged involvement in car burglary using a fabricated master key.
Ongoing Investigations and Commitment to Security
The police spokesperson noted that investigations are ongoing in all cases, with efforts intensified to arrest fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to strengthening its investigative capacity and collaborating with other security agencies to combat crime.
"The Force remains resolute in its mission to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety and security of all citizens," he said.
