Niger Police Arrest 71 Suspects, Recover 10 AK-47 Rifles in July Operations

The Niger State Police Command has arrested 71 suspects in connection with kidnapping, armed robbery, homicide, fraud, and drug-related offences following a series of intelligence-led operations conducted across the state in July.

The operations also led to the recovery of 10 AK-47 rifles, 15 magazines, and 330 rounds of live ammunition, along with other exhibits linked to criminal activities.

Addressing journalists in Minna, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Elleman, said the successes were achieved through targeted raids on criminal hideouts, strategic deployment of tactical teams, and improved collaboration with members of the public. He described the operations as part of the command’s ongoing efforts to strengthen security across Niger State.

One of the major breakthroughs was the dismantling of a notorious kidnapping syndicate operating in parts of Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT. Police arrested the alleged gang leader, Samaila Ilya, also known as “Maikujuri.” Intelligence gathered during the investigation also led to the recovery of additional weapons and the rescue of three kidnapped victims.

In another operation, officers intercepted a suspect allegedly transporting five AK-47 magazines and 185 rounds of live ammunition concealed in a bag of cement. Investigators believe the ammunition was meant for another suspect who remains at large.

Police also uncovered a forgery syndicate and recovered 105 fake National Identification Number, NIN, cards and 189 fake Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs, from a suspect accused of producing forged documents for hundreds of people.

Beyond the arrests, the command rescued nine children and an abducted infant. Officers also recovered stolen livestock, vehicles, motorcycles, illicit drugs, and other items believed to be linked to criminal activities.

CP Elleman reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven policing and urged residents to continue supporting law enforcement with credible information.