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Category: Defence/Security

  • Appreciate sacrifices by security agencies, Gov. AbdulRazaq urges

    Security

    By Olubukola Aiyedogbon

    Igbaja (Kwara), June 20, 2024 (NAN) Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara on Thursday in Igbaja called for more appreciation of  sacrifices of all security agencies, especially the Nigerian Army.

    The governor said this at the commissioning of a Computer-Based Testing (CBT) Centre, a special intervention project of the Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), Lt.-Gen. T. A. Lagbaja.

    He commended the Federal Government and the Chief of Army Staff for establishing the CBT centre, saying it would aid skills acquisition and boost the socio-economic growth of the area.

    “This computer centre means a lot for the socio-economic growth of this community. Not only does it nudge members of the community towards acquisition of necessary skills for this age, it opens up new frontiers of socio-economic benefits for Igbaja and communities around it.

    “I am also fascinated by the spirit behind this project. It is timely and necessary. The need for better military-civil relations cannot be over-emphasised.

    “Recent developments in our country suggest the need to deepen citizens’ appreciation of sacrifices that our security forces make to keep us safe, stabilise the fabric of our society, and ward off every threat against the Nigerian state.

    “Over the last two decades, the military has played very important roles to support civilian authorities at all times, including at a time when our country came under intense pressure from hostile non-state actors,”  the governor said.

    AbdulRazaq urged Nigerians to appreciate and honour the security forces deployed in internal operations and during emergencies, and cease all attacks on them.

    Earlier, the CoAS had said the project’s execution further affirmed the transformational drive of the Nigerian Army towards achieving its constitutional responsibility through a non-kinetic line of operations.

    The Army chief, who was represented by Maj.-Gen. Obinna Onubogu, thanked the governor and  people of the state for their continued support for operations of the Nigerian Army.

    “The Nigerian Army has received tremendous support from your government. It is also gladdening to note that we have enjoyed cordial working relationships with you over the years.

    “Your support has contributed immensely to our operational success within the state and the entire North-Central region,” Lagbaja said.

    Maj.-Gen. Adelokun Eyitayo, a serving military officer and native of Igbaja land, thanked the CoAS for his approval of the project and his unwavering support for its delivery.

    He also appreciated the governor for directing the purchase and supply of his three books for use by students of public secondary schools in the state.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the project was executed by Eyitayo who also launched three books.

    The books are titled “Life of Prince Daud and Spirituality”, “Tears for Suni and Titi” and “The Boy on the Highland’.

    The commissioning was also attended by the Elese of Igbajaland, Oba Ahmed Awuni, the Arepo III, amongst several others.(NAN)

    OJB/CHOM/OLAL

    ===============

    (Edited by Chioma Ugboma and Olawale Alabi)

     

  • Beware of fake employment letters, NIS warns

    Beware of fake employment letters, NIS warns
    Employment
    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) on Thursday drew the attention of Nigerians to fake and invalid employment letters in circulation purportedly issued by the service.
    The NIS made this known in a statement by its Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Mr Kenneth Udo, in Abuja.
    Udo warned desperate job seekers to exercise caution so as not to fall victim to the fraudsters.
    According to him, the fraudulent letters falsely claim that the recipients have been offered employment with the NIS.
    He said “the Service categorically denies any involvement in this fraudulent scheme and refutes the misinformation being spread on social media platforms regarding an ongoing recruitment/replacement exercise.
    “The NIS shall continue to ensure that any unscrupulous elements engaging in this criminality will be made to face the wrath of the law.
    “The public is hereby advised to report these scammers to the nearest NIS office or law enforcement agencies.

    “The Nigeria Immigration Service recruitment exercise is exclusively advertised through reputable national dailies, television broadcasts, and our official website, http://www.immigration.gov.ng.

    Udo said that the Service was resolutely committed to safeguarding the interest of Nigerians and upholding the integrity of its recruitment processes.(NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)

    ICA/SOA
    Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

  • Police nab 5 suspected Kidnappers , 1 car snatcher in Kaduna

    Police nab 5 suspected Kidnappers , 1 car snatcher in Kaduna
    Arrest
    By Muhammad Tijjani
    Kaduna, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Police Command in Kaduna State  has arrested five suspected Kidnappers and one suspected car snatcher.
    The Command’s Spokesperson ASP Mansir Hassan confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Thursday in Kaduna.
    Hassan said, ” On June. 15,  at about 18:10 hours, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Maigana received intelligence from a concerned citizen regarding a group of kidnappers planning to collect ransom money from the relatives of their victim.
    He said that the DPO acting swiftly mobilized his patrol team and some members of the local vigilante group to the location.
    “The operation resulted in the successful arrest of the suspects, Shuaiabu Bala, 23, from Malanta, Gimba Village, and Safinu Musa, 22,  from Bugau Village, Anchau, Kubau Local Government Area (LGA) of the state” Hassan said.
    He said investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the kidnapping gang.
    Hassan also said that a significant breakthrough in fighting kidnapping was made on June 17 with the arrest of three other suspected kidnappers.
     “Acting on credible intelligence received by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Tafa, it was reported that some suspected kidnappers were sighted roaming around Tafa Town.
    “At about 1700 hours, the DPO immediately mobilized and led a surveillance team, in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) of Tafa to the scene.
    “As a result of this swift action, three suspected kidnappers were arrested and brought to the station.
    “The suspects have been identified as Sani Amadu  17,  Sani Lawal, 20, and Aliyu Usman  22, all residents of Dadin Kowa, Tafa LGA , Niger State.
    “During the course of the investigation, incriminating evidence, including pictures and videos of banditry activities, was discovered on their cell phones.
    ” Upon completion of the preliminary investigation, the case will be transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for further action,” he said.
    Hassan also disclosed that on June. 13,
     at about 1600 hours, intelligence was received that a criminal element was sighted at Kachia Road by the Railway Station Roundabout in Kaduna with a motor vehicle strongly suspected to be stolen.
    He said acting on the information, a team from the Anti-Car Theft Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) was swiftly mobilised to the scene.
    “The operatives arrested one Chinago Harrison, male, of Manya Street, Ungwan Romi, Kaduna.
    The operatives  recovered  a black Toyota Land Cruiser Jeep, 2013 model, with registration number KTU 886 JD, chassis number JTMHY7AJXD4017043, and engine number 3UR3151879.
    He said  preliminary investigations have revealed that the vehicle was stolen from Sir Dingshegyuan Plastic Processing and Manufacturing Company Limited, located at the Interchange in Shagamu, Ogun State.
    “The suspect will be handed over to Ogun State Police Command for further investigations, “Hassan said.
    The command’s  spokesman said that the Police in the state remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
    Hassan quoted the Commissioner of Police, Mr Ali Dabigi, as urging the public to continue to support it by promptly reporting any suspicious activities around their environment to the police. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    TJ/AOS
    =======
    Edited by Bayo Sekoni

  • Police partner NFIU to curb money laundering, terrorism financing

    Police partner NFIU to curb money laundering, terrorism financing

    Laundering

    By Monday Ijeh

    Abuja, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Olukayode Egbetokun, on Thursday said the Police had partnered with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) to curb money laundering and terrorism financing in the country.

    Egbetokun said this in Abuja at a meeting with Strategic Police Managers, consisting of officers from the rank of Commissioners of Police and above.

    He said the Nigeria police force had a crucial role to play in combating money laundering and terrorism financing in the country.

    “To strengthen our capabilities and demonstrate our commitment to combating financial crimes, we have established dedicated Anti-Money Laundering (AML) section at the Force Criminal Investigation Department,” he said.

    He said that establishment of the section would be replicated at all Zonal and State Commands nationwide.

    Egbetokun said the unit would enhance the capacity of the force to tackle the menace as well as investigate and prosecute financial crimes and terrorism financing.

    “By working together, we will improve our investigations, prosecutions, and ultimately, convict perpetrators.

    “I urge you all to embrace this initiative at your various duty posts, by assisting the take-off of the section,” he said.

    Egbetokun said the country had over the past 12 months, faced significant challenges of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and armed robbery.

    He said the force had remained resilient and steadfast in its mandate despite the threats.

    The I-G commended the senior officers for their dedication and hard work through exemplary performance across various duty stations.

    “Our efforts to grow capacity, improve services and strengthen relationships with sister services and the public have yielded positive results in our fight against crime nationwide.

    “This milestone provides us an opportunity to reflect on our achievements, acknowledge the challenges and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring safety and security of Nigerians.

    “Today, we will evaluate our internal security operations and activities over the past year, highlighting significant achievements and addressing the major challenges faced.

    “We will also deliberate on security plans to support the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in achieving smooth gubernatorial elections in Edo and Ondo State later this year,” he said. (NAN)

    IMC/CHOM/IAA

    ===============

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Isaac Aregbesola

     

     

     

     

  • Counter-insurgency: Nigerian army puts to operation 2 Bell UH1 helicopters

    Counter-insurgency: Nigerian army puts to operation 2 Bell UH1 helicopters

    Aviation

    By Sumaila Ogbaje

    Abuja, June 20,2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Army on Thursday,  put to operation two new Bell UH1 Helicopters to herald its aviation unit and to strengthen its counter-insurgency operations.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the two helicopters arrived the Nigeria Police Air wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at about 4:37 p.m.

    In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, said the journey to realising the dream of army aviation had come to reality with delivery of the two helicopters.

    Lagbaja said the renewed drive to have an aviation wing started in 2014 when the former COAS, retired Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, established and operationalised the army aviation coordination office with a 10-year implementation plan segmented into three phases.

    “I am glad that, as conceptualised 10 years later, we have today,  taken delivery of our first set of platforms.

    “The journey, as predicted by the initial dreamers, has not been easy but here we are today by the grace of God, realising our dream.

    “We are new to this business, and as newcomers, we must acknowledge our forerunners like the NAF, NN, and the NPF.

    “We are on our learning curve in the aviation business, and we hope it will be a pleasant experience that will enhance our operational successes,” he said.

    Lagbaja said the new helicopters would be a game-changer for the army in its operational activities, adding that the platforms would be used for casualty evacuation, reconnaissance and surveillance.

    He said new platform would ensure flexibility in providing support to  troops in the field in terms of casualty evacuation, supply and insertion of troops in critical areas.

    The Coordinator of Nigerian Army Aviation, Brig.-Gen. Musa Alkali, said the introduction of the advanced air platforms marked a new chapter in the army’s operational readiness and ability to respond swiftly and effectively to diverse security challenges.

    Alkali said the platforms were not just an addition to army fleet but a leap forward in its quest for excellence and efficiency toward getting its aviation unit operational.

    He said the journey had been defined by rigorous planning, meticulous execution, and unwavering support of the Nigerian army leadership and partners.

    According to him, the acquisition of these air platforms is a clear demonstration of our resolve to continuously improve and adapt in the face of evolving security landscapes.

    “These platforms will significantly bolster the reconnaissance, surveillance, and air mobility capabilities, thereby enhancing our overall operational effectiveness.

    “As we integrate these platforms into our operations, let us also remember that the true strength of our aviation lies in the skilled and courageous personnel who operate and maintain these machines.

    “Their professionalism, dedication, and expertise are the bedrock upon which our success is built,” he said.

    The Consultant, retired Maj.-Gen. Emeka Onwuamaegbu, commended the leadership of the Nigerian army for making the aviation unit a reality.

    He said the Nigerian army invested in him so much to become an aviation professional but could not render the service to the army because of the absence of aviation unit until his retirement.

    “The army invested so much in me in this aspect of military operations but unfortunately, I didn’t use those skills when I was in service.

    “It was a great pleasure a few months ago when I heard that the Nigerian army was about to operationalise the aviation corps, and I met the Chief of Army Staff, and he trusted me to be involved.

    “These platforms will form the foundation for the growth of the Nigerian army,” he said.

    NAN reports that the COAS had in 2023, disclosed that President Bola Tinubu, had approved  acquisition of the initial 12 MD 530F Cayuse Attack Helicopters for actualisation of army aviation.

    He said the acquisition of the new attack helicopters was part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to boost  operational capabilities of the army aviation to appropriately respond to contemporary and emerging security threats.

    The attack helicopters are still being expected. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    OYS/CHOM/SH

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    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Sadiya Hamza

     

  • Police arrest 4 over alleged killing of Alex-Ekwueme Varsity student

     

    Killing

    By Uchenna Ugwu

    Abakaliki, June 20, 2024 ((NAN) The Police Command in Ebonyi has arrested four suspects in connection with the alleged abduction and killing of Magnus Okeke, a student of Alex-Ekwueme Federal University (AE-FUNAI), Ikwo Local Government Area of the state.

    DSP Joshua Ukandu, Spokesman of the Command confirmed the arrest to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abakaliki.

    “Yes, we have commenced investigation on the matter and four persons have so far been arrested in connection with the heinous crime.

    “The victim’s body has been recovered and taken to the mortuary. Investigation is ongoing to unravel the death. Four suspects have been arrested so far,” he said

    The management of the university, had in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Mr Elom Iyke Ubochi, described the abduction and killing of Okeke as wicked.

    Ubochi noted that Okeke, an extra year student of the Department of Accountancy was abducted on June 1, 2024.

    “Yes, the security agencies have apprehended some of those alleged to be involved in the abduction and did everything possible to rescue him alive.

    “Unfortunately, on Monday, June 17, the decomposing body of Okeke was painfully recovered under the bridge at Ako stream in Nwakpu village, on  Ikwo/Abakaliki Road,” he said

    The university urged anyone with useful information that could aid in the investigation to come forward and assist the authorities. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    UVU/EBI/IU

    =============
    Edited by Benson Iziama and Isaac Ukpoju

  • NDLEA nabs 1, 344 drug suspects, alleged traffickers in Katsina — Commander 

    NDLEA nabs 1, 344 drug suspects, alleged traffickers in Katsina — Commander
    Arrest
    By Zubairu Idris
    Katsina, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The  National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Katsina State Command has arrested 1, 344 people for alleged drug abuse and trafficking in one year.
    The NDLEA Commander in the state, Mr Hassan Sani-Abubakar, made the disclosure at a news briefing as part of the activities to commemorate the 2024 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
    Sani-Abubakar said that the suspects were apprehended from July 2023, when the commander assumed duty, to date.
    He said the number comprised women and those who briefly counseled and released
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2024 theme  is: “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention”.
    He said the command had secured the conviction of 112 cases and 120 cases were pending at various courts.
    According to him, 136 suspects were counseled and admitted at its facility for rehabilitation.
    Sani-Abubakar revealed that 1, 161.831kilograms  of cannabis sativa, 77.071 kg of psychotropic substances and 80.400 kg of other controlled drugs were recovered during the period under review.
    “The rate of drugs and other psychotropic substance abuse and trafficking among the general public in the state  remains alarming and  of concern for the command and government.
    “It cuts across all strata of community members which suggests that everybody is affected either directly or indirectly.
    “It is a crystal fact that most of the people indulging in this inglorious trading of drugs are doing it for its huge economic and financial gains.
    “And to that effect, the command has not relented in its operational tactics and strategies with a mission to cripple anybody found wanting, as we no longer see the drugs in usual places but unconventional business premises,” he said.
    The commander,  therefore,  urged the public to continue to partner with the agency in exposing such bad eggs in the society. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    ZI/CHOM/BRM
    ==============
    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

  • Army Chief seeks partnership with media to combat insecurity

     

    Army Chief seeks partnership with media to combat insecurity

    Media

    By Muhammad Nur Tijani

    Kano, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen.Taoreed Lagbaja, has urged media professionals to partner with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to combat insecurity in the country.

    Lagbaja made the call in a keynote address he delivered at the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Media Chat held in Kano on Thursday.

    Lagbaja described the theme of the event:  “Synergizing Civil-Military Cooperation for National Security: Focus on Nigerian Army-Media Relations” as apt in view of the current security situation in Nigeria.

    The army chief said that, Civil-Military Cooperation was a vital component in achieving national security objectives.

    He said that the Army would strive to build stronger relationships with the media, recognizing the critical role the media plays in shaping public opinion, informing the people, and fostering transparency in governance.

    “The Nigerian Army is fully committed to the protection of law-abiding citizens and their civil liberties.

    “We understand that a robust partnership with the media is paramount in achieving this objective.

    “The media serves as the bridge that connects the military to the citizens, ensuring accountability, and maintaining a healthy relationship based on mutual trust and understanding,” he said.

    Lagbaja explained that over the years, the Nigerian Army has made significant progress in enhancing its communication and engagement with the media

    Accordong to him, the Army  has worked hard to remove most of the encumbrances to peace in the country and enhance civil-military relations.

    The army chief, however, acknowledged that there was still work to be done and challenges to address.

    “We must establish regular channels of communication, enabling transparent and accurate reporting of military operations and activities, timely dissemination of information for engendering public confidence and countering misinformation.

    “In view of this, I urge you to exercise responsibility, accuracy, and fairness in reporting on Nigerian Army’s matters.

    “While we acknowledge the importance of freedom of the press, it is crucial to strike a balance between national security interests and the public’s right to information,” he said.

    Lagbaja further urged the media to avoid disseminating fake news or inflammatory contents that could undermine national unity and security.

    He also reiterated Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving media access to operations within the bounds of operational security.

    The COAS added that the Media Chat signifies unwavering dedication to transparent and effective communication between the Nigerian Army and the media practitioners.

    He then re- assured the nation of the unalloyed loyalty of the officers and men of the Nigerian Army to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Lagbaja also appreciate the President for his continuous strategic guidance and unwavering support to the Nigerian Army.

    Earlier, the Chief of Civil -Military Affairs, Maj. Gen. Nosakhare Ugbo, said that the media chart serve as platform to synergize efforts, improve communication and foster a strong and collaborative relationship between the Nigerian Army and the media for national security.

    According to him, the Nigerian Army’s collaboration with the media is one of the numerous platforms used to enhance Civil-Military cooperation as well was Civil-Military relationship.

    Ugbo reiterated Nigerian Army’s commitment to not only safeguarding the nation, but also fostering relationships that promote understanding and unity among the people.

    In her remark, the special guest of honor, the Group Managing Director of TVC, Victoria Ajayi, said that the Nigerian Army stood as a fortification of national defence, tasked with ensuring the safety and security of people in the face of multifaceted security challenges.

    Ajayi lauded the Nigerian Army for it’s efforts to engage with the media, fostering productive interactions that enhance transparency and promote a shared understanding of collective security challenges.(NAN) www.nannews.ng

    MNT/AOS

    ==========

    Edited by Bayo Sekoni

     

     

  • 1 killed, 2 policemen injured in Kano

    1 killed, 2 policemen injured in Kano

    Violence

    By Aminu Garko

    Kano, June 20, 2024 (NAN) Some suspected hoodlums have unleashed mayhem on Jaen Makera quarters in Kano metropolis, killing one person and injuring two policemen.

    The outgoing Commissioner of police, AIG Usaini Gumel disclosed this in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Kano.

    He said that the suspects killed Muktar Garba, also known as Babalia during the incident.

    Gumel said that Garba died while receiving treatment at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist hospital, Kano, adding that his corpse has been released to his relatives for burial.

    The police boss said that the hoodlums who were carrying dangerous weapons defied police presence deployed to the area and started attacking innocent people.

    He said more reinforcement from the police tactical team and nearby divisions was deployed to the area and peace was restored as the hoodlums fled.

    The commissioner said that efforts are being intensified to identify and arrest the perpetrators.

    He said some other groups of hoodlums on Wednesday engaged in street fighting, using dangerous weapons at Yan Dillalai and Jaen Makera, but were dispersed by the police team.

    Gumel said the two policemen, SC Wasilu Umar and PC Abdulmalik Yusif, who were injured during the incident, were treated and discharged from the hospital.

    He said that a suspect, Umar Shuaibu was arrested for attacking Yusif , while  a vehicle attached to Filin Hockey was destroyed.

    The commissioner said that the command strives to address the underlying causes of violence, and promote lasting peace and well-being of all individuals affected.

    He said normalcy has returned to the area as police personnel are monitoring the situation.( NAN) ( www.nannews.ng)

    AAG/JPE

    =======

    Edited by Joseph Edeh

     

     

  • Troops arrest alleged mastermind of attack on  Taraba community  

    Troops arrest alleged mastermind of attack on  Taraba community

    Attack

    By Martins Abochol

    Jalingo, June 20, 2024 (NAN)  Troops of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), has arrested  the  alleged mastermind of  the  deadly attack on Mararaban Azagwa village,  in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that scores were killed last week, including a 92-year-old man at  Mararaban Azagawa village of Bali.

    This is contained in a statement by Lt. Olubondunde Oni, Acting Assistant Director of Information of the brigade in Jalingo on Thursday.

    He said the troops acted swiftly following the attack on June 16, which resulted in the tragic loss of five lives and numerous injuries.

    Oni said that the troops of 20 Model Battalion Sub-Sector 3A OPWS, stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Bali Local Government Area, launched a special operation to arrest the suspects.

    He said that based on credible intelligence, the troops were able to arrest the ringleader, Hassan Ibrahim, also known as Godu, 39 years old.

    Oni said that during the arrest, a Dane gun, cartridges and a motorcycle belonging to one of the victims were recovered from him.

    “Ibrahim has admitted his involvement in the heinous act and has provided valuable information to the troops.

    “He is currently in custody, cooperating with authorities to help arrest his collaborators.

    “The commander of 6 Brigade Sector 3 OPWS, Brig.-Gen. Kingsley Uwa, has applauded the public for providing useful information leading to the arrest of the suspect.

    “He urged the public to continue to support the Brigade’s efforts to eliminate criminal activities in Taraba.

    “The successful arrest of the terrorist mastermind is a significant achievement for the troops and a step towards restoring peace and security in the affected community.

    “The Nigerian Army remains committed to protecting the lives and property of the citizens and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety of Taraba ,” he  said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    MK/JPE

    ======

    Edited by Joseph Edeh