Category: Defence/Security

NSCDC arrests suspected electricity cable vandals in Katsina

Vandals
By Abbas Bamalli
Katsina, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Katsina State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says it has arrested two suspected streetlight and electricity cable vandals in the state.

The command’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), DSC Buhari Hamisu, said this while parading the suspects in Katsina on Thursday.

Hamisu said that the arrest was made by the Special Anti-vandal Unit of the command, headed by CSC Musa Adam-Usman, “based on credible intelligence”.

According to him, On June 10, the team successfully apprehended a suspect, 26-year-old Ma’aruf Yusuf, while on a routine patrol.

“The suspect belonged to a team of notorious syndicate that specialised in theft and vandalising public infrastructure.

“During the investigation, the suspect confessed to committing the crimes and revealed that he conspired with Aliyu (alias Chakal) and one Haduwa, who are still at large,” the PRO said.

He said that the suspect also confessed that the gang went to Magangarin Makudawa and dug out the streetlights cable, using digger and shovel.

He said that “on sighting the patrol team, the suspects ran away, while Yusuf was apprehended after they attempted to attack the operatives with knife, double-edged sword, digger and stick.

“Further investigation reveals that they had severally vandalised and removed electric wires of streetlights at the same location and sold 10kg to Ali at the cost of N800 per kg.

“He also sold 15kg to Ayi Guda at the cost of N750 per kg, and both receivers are scrap dealers at Kofar Guga Garage,” he said.

Hamisu said that exhibits recovered from the suspects included one knife, double-edged sword, stick, digger and electricity armoured cables. (NAN)(wwwnannews.ng)

AABS/USO
Edited by Sam Oditah

Intelligence

By Nefishetu Yakubu

Benin, June 13, 2024 (NAN) A security expert, Prof. Olufemi Olufunmilade, has called on Nigerians to seek elementary knowledge of intelligence gathering to help tackle security challenges confronting the nation.

He made the call on Thursday while delivering the 25th Inaugural Lecture of Igbinedion University Okada (IUO) with the topic: “Foreign Intelligence: The Means to Advancing Nigeria’s Security and Prosperity”.

Olufunmilade, Director, Centre for Contemporary Security Affairs, IUO, added that most Nigerians were ignorant of elementary knowledge of intelligence gathering beyond using Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras.

He said Nigeria was going through its worst experience in terms of national security and economic prosperity since independence.

“Since independence, six decades ago, it is only security personnel, comprising the military, police, intelligence and allied security agencies that have access to educative and instructional materials on intelligence,” he said.

Olufunmilade, a professor of International Relations and Strategy Studies, noted that every Nigerian should be actively involved in securing his or her community.

“This nation is at a stage where security has become too important to be left in the hands of security practitioners alone.

“In this regard, knowledge of security needs to be liberalised.

“That is, it should be accessible to all and sundry and should not be hoarded and treated like the exclusive preserve of security agencies.

“This lecture, therefore, seeks to bridge the gap of knowledge of the Nigerian public in an aspect of security management that is of absolute importance in the overall security architecture of any nation.

“Intelligence is a sin qua non. Any security arrangement not backed up with intelligence is hollow,” Olufunmilade said.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of IUO, Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, eulogised Olufunmilade for his contributions to research and teaching within the Nigerian military.

According to the VC, Olufunmilade contributes articles to the Nigerian Army Journal and Journal of the Nigerian Army War College on nuclear weaponry, biological warfare, and foreign intelligence.

“The Guardian Newspaper published his first article on 20 July 1991 with the title: ‘On Afro-Pessimism and Pan-Africanism’.

“This was the beginning of a prolific practice of freelance journalism, not only with The Guardian but as well with other newspapers.

“He was a visiting professor to the Command and Staff College, Jaji, where he lectured on Terrorism and Counter-terrorism,” Ezemonye said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

NY/MAS

Edited by Moses Solanke

Drugs

By Lucy Osuizigbo-Okechukwu

Awka, June 13, 2024(NAN) The wife of Anambra Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has urged youths in the state to shun drug use for the sake of their personal health, future and the society at large.

She gave the advice while flagging off Operation Clean Anambra of Substance Abuse Campaign, in Awka on Thursday.

According to her, drug abuse has resulted in increased violence and crimes, higher prevalence in Hepatitis B and C virus, HIV/AIDS, and collapse in the social structure.

“Our homes are losing the sacredness of culture and moral traditions.

“Our communities have become havens for drug peddlers and manufacturers who use the element of fear and intimidation to silence the people who are willing to assist local authorities with valid information.

“Healthy Living initiative is championing this fight in schools and communities to break the wall of illicit drugs economy which is booming at the detriment of our society.

“We have constituted Healthy Living Overwatch in the 179 communities to monitor illicit drug dealers and report same to security agencies.

“The target is to make everyone a driver of solution to rid Anambra state of this deadly disease called drug abuse and save the lives and future of our children,” Soludo said.

Mr Daniel Onyishi, Anambra Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), said that the agency was working with the Governor’s wife to address the growing drug abuse cases in Anambra.

According to him, one out of every four user of illicit drugs is a woman.

“According to recent statistics, Nigeria alone has 14.4 per cent drug abuse prevalence rate and it is projected that by 2030, it will rise to 40 per cent if nothing is done.

“The major concern is that women, especially young girl are embracing substance abuse. One out of every four drug abuser is a woman and one out of five will suffer substance abuse disorder.

“Women are key nurturers, moulders and caregivers in the society and should not be involved in illicit drug abuse,” he said.

The NDLEA Commandant urged community leaders to support the agency with information about drug dealers in their environment.

In his remarks, Mr Titus Akpudo, President-General, Anambra State Association of Town Union, promised to take the message against substance abuse to the nooks and crannies of the state.

“As community leaders, we must support the governor’s wife in the fight to eliminate substance abuse in our communities because if we do not act now, it will hunt us in future,” he said.(NAN) www.nannews.ng

LCO/VIV

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Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Terrorists

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) Troops of the Nigerian Army  on Thursday neutralised six terrorists, recovering a substantial cache of arms in a counter-terrorism operation at Birnin Gwari in Kaduna State.

A statement by the army posted on its official X Handle said the operation targeted identified terrorists hideouts in the Birnin Gwari general area.

“It is part of a special clearance mission aimed at restoring peace and security in the state.

“The troops conducted  thorough clearance across Maidaro, Ngade Alha, Dogon Dawa, Damari, Saulawa, Farin Ruwa, Maganda, Sabon Layi, and Kampanin Doka villages.

“The troops made initial contact with the terrorists in Saulawa, where two terrorists were immediately neutralised with recovery of a Baofeng Radio and a motorbike.

“The mission continued with further combat engagements in Farin Ruwa, where the troops neutralised additional four terrorists.

“The gallant troops also recovered a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), two AK-47 rifles, six AK-47 magazines, one FN rifle magazine, 22 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition, 51 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition and another motorbike.

“The successful clearance operation underscores the army’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring  safety and security of citizens in Kaduna State and other troubled spots,” it said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OYS/CHOM/ETS

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Arrest

By Olajide Idowu

Osogbo,  June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Police in Osun have arrested two members of a suspected armed robbery gang that specialises in using motorcycles to rob residents in Osogbo.

A statement by SP Yemisi Opalola, Police Spokesperson in Osun, said that the suspects, Adesina Hammed, 29 and Oyeladun Iyanu, 28, were apprehended after robbing two young men on a motorcycle at Olaiya Area in Osogbo.

‘The Osun State Police Command has been able to effect the arrest of two suspects named; Adesina Hammed and Oyeladun Iyanu, who have been terrorizing the city of Osogbo,” Opalola said.

According to her, on June 5, two young men were stopped along Olaiya towards Osun Mall Area by a group of four individuals on motorbikes and were forcefully robbed of their phone (iPhone 13) with a cutlass.

“After that, the robbers took their victims to a POS operator to transfer N400,000 from their mobile bank app on the phone.

“Upon tip off, a team of Anti-cultism squad swung into action and was able to apprehend the two suspects with the remaining two gang members at large.

“Investigation is ongoing, while efforts are on to arrest the fleeing suspects,” Opalola stated.

She said the case would be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.

Similarly the Police Command also said it arrested a suspect over alleged theft of armoured cable in Ede.

Opalola said the suspect identified as Yusuf Adamu was apprehended at night in possession of armoured cable, suspected to have been stolen from a transformer.

“He has confessed to the crime, meanwhile, investigation is still ongoing and he would be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation,” Opalola said.

The police spokesperson enjoined the people of Osun to exercise patience as the command was working assiduously to rid the state of crime and criminal elements. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

ID/OIF/AOS

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Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Bayo Sekoni

Security

By Olajide Idowu

Osogbo, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun Corps) Osun Command, has assured residents of security of lives and property during and after the 2024 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

Brig.-Gen. Bashir Adewinmbi, State Commander, Amotekun Corps,  gave the assurance in a statement on Thursday in Osogbo.

He said that there was no cause for alarm as the operatives of the corps were on red alert in all the local government of the state to ensure a hitch-free Eid el Kabir celebration.

He warned officers and men of the Corps to ensure strict adherence to the extant rules of engagement and guard against acts capable of tarnishing the image of the agency.

“As directed by Gov. Ademola Adeleke for hitch-free sallah celebration in the state, I have directed Area Commanders, Local Government Commanders, and Operational Units of the command to deploy all operational and intelligence assets at their disposal.

“They are to effectively protect their areas of responsibilities and ensure smooth celebrations during and after Eid-el-Adha festivities.

“I entreat all and sundry to celebrate responsibly and peacefully as well as call on Muslims Ummah to use the period to pray for the peace and progress of Osun State and Nigeria at large,” Adewinmbi said

The corps commander urged residents to reawaken and genuinely demonstrate the true nature of Prophet Mohammed, which is exemplified by his love and selflessness.

He also called on residents to remain supportive, law-abiding, and vigilant, while promptly reporting acts of crime and criminality to the nearest Amotekun command and other security agencies. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

ID/OIF/AOS

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Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Bayo Sekoni

Arrest

By Deborah Akpede

08062138142

Lagos, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Police Force, Zone 2 Command, Onikan, Lagos, have arrested 23 suspects for various alleged offences including robbery and adulteration of pharmaceutical drugs.

SP Umman Ayuba, the Zonal Command’s Public Relations Officer (ZPRO), disclosed this on Thursday in Lagos, when briefing news men.

Ayuba said that the zone under the leadership of the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Olatoye Durosinmi had recorded tremendous success in the war against crime and criminality.

She said that those arrested comprised 21 males and two females.

The spokesperson said that among the suspects arrested was an ex- convict, Samson Sesan, the principal suspect and kingpin of a robbery gang involved in several robbery incidents around Abeokuta, Ogun.

Ayuba said that Sesan was arrested on June 1 by operatives of the Zonal Dragon Squad.

“Sesan was arrested and while conducting search at his apartment, one locally made double barrel pistol, one locally made single barrel pistol and 10 live cartridges were recovered.

“Upon interrogation, other suspects were arrested and more exhibits recovered, ” she said.

Ayuba said that a young lady, who allegedly conspired with her boyfriend to fake her kidnap and demanded N5 million ransom, was also arrested along with some of her accomplices.

“A case of kidnapping was reported to the office of the AIG by one Jona Jumai that sometimes in the month of May 2024 her sister, who works as a domestic staff in Ajah Area of Lagos, went missing.

“A few days later the family members were contacted via a strange telephone number that the missing lady had been kidnapped and in custody of the kidnappers who demanded N5 million ransom to be paid into a designated account.

“Suspects were trailed and arrested in their hideout in Ikorodu Area of Lagos by operatives of the Zonal Anti-Piracy Unit led by SP Mariam Ogunmolasuyi, ” the police spokesperson said.

Ayuba further said that investigation revealed that it was the purported kidnap-victim, her boyfriend and her cousin who planned the kidnap to extort money from her employer and family members.

Speaking further, she said that another suspect was arrested for allegedly stealing jewellery worth more than N40 million.

“The suspect who is a domestic staff (Chef) at the time was alleged of breaking and stealing jewellery and other valuables worth more than N40 million in a petition received from Dr Ademola Oyewusi ‘m’ sometimes in August 2023.

“The suspect was arrested somewhere in Makurdi, Benue State through a technology driven investigation by SP Mariam Ogunmolasuyi and team.

“He confessed to have sold the stolen items to one Mutairu Yakubu ‘m’ for a sum of N7.4 million before he absconded to his hometown in Cross-River”, she said.

Ayuba also said that two suspects were arrested for alleged production of adulterated cough syrups.

“A petition filed by one Walter Anyaoha, the Managing Director of Wihyaland Pharmaceuticals, alleged that his trainee one Chisom Ndukwu, who has been living with him suddenly left the house to an unknown place.

“When he checked his shop he realised
that four cartons of JVI drug valued at N9.6 million were also missing in the shop.

“Investigation into the allegation by CSP Omotayo Adegbite O/C Zonal Anti-Crime Unit led to the arrest of the suspect in company of his accomplice who is into production of adulterated cough syrups.

“When a search was conducted in the houses and premises of the suspects, bags containing packs with inscription of DSP codiene cough syrups and empty bottles and covers of cough syrups were recovered.

According to her, the suspects admitted to the crime.

Ayuba said items recovered from the suspects included five cars, firearms, foodstuff and some dangerous weapons.

“Exhibits recovered include one locally made double barrel pistol, one locally made single barrel pistol, 10 round of live cartridges, one unregistered Toyota Corolla, one unregistered Mazda 626.

“Others are a Mazda 323 with foreign number plate KJ 52 AYA, one Nissan Primera car with registration number JBD 386 XC, one Mazda 626 with registration number LSR 05 GG, four bags of Garri, five iron bars, one chisel, one sledge hammer, one iron bending tool.

“Also recovered were three cutlasses, two flat iron bars, one hammer, bags containing packs with inscription of DSP codiene cough syrup and empty bottles, ”

According to her, investigation is ongoing.

She said that updates would be provided to members of the public and suspects would be prosecuted accordingly upon completion of investigations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

DOA/DCO/AOS

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Edited by Deborah Coker/Bayo Sekoni

Police
By Moses Omorogieva
Lagos, June 14, 2024 (NAN) The wife of the Inspector-General of Police, Mrs Elizabeth Egbetokun, has presented scholarships and health insurance to 21 children and widows of late officers in Lagos State.

Egbetokun, who is also the President, Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), made the presentation on Thursday to the beneficiaries as part of her two-day working visit to the Lagos Police Command.

She commended the wife of the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Mrs Adekemi Fayoade, the initiator of the scholarship and health insurance.

The POWA President said that the initiatives would go a long way to assist the children and widows of  late officers who died in the course of duty.

For Mrs Adekemi Fayoade, the initiatives were to empower the children and widows of late officers to continue their education, and for the growth and wellness of their families.

Fayoade, also the Chairperson of POWA in Lagos State, pointed out that, though she inherited the programme from the last Chairperson, Mrs Idowu Owohunwa, she decided to continue the project for the betterment of members.

She said POWA was committed to supporting the families of late officers and others in dire need of support.

“Health and wellness, which promote physical and mental wellness of police officers are of priority.

“The introduction of health insurance programme for widows will alleviate the difficulties encountered in having access to affordable health care

“The skills development workshop is to equip widows and police wives with assistance in their businesses. This will go a long way to assist the family,” she said.

Gov. Babatunde Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State commended POWA for the health insurance and scholarships for children of late police officers

The governor, represented by his Special Assistant, Internal Audit, Mrs Oyeyemi Ayoola, said POWA’s assistance to members had helped the officers to provide good security for all in the state. (NAN) www.nannews.ng
MIO/VIV
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Edited by Vivian Ihechu