Category: Defence/Security

Killing

By Uchenna Ugwu

Abakaliki, June 4, 2024 (NAN) The Police Command in Ebonyi has confirmed that a Councillor, Stanley Nwaeze and a youth leader, Arinze Ugochukwu were allegedly killed by suspected gunmen at Isu in Onicha Local Government Area of the state.

The police spokesperson in Ebony’s, DSP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the incident in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abakaliki.

The spokesperson, who condemned the gruesome murder, told NAN that the command received the report of the incident around 6:45 pm on Tuesday.

“I received the report from a divisional police officer of Onicha LGA that the incident happened on June 2.

Ukandu said: “The incident is confirmed and Police is investigating the matter,”.

NAN reports that the Councillor, Nwaeze represents Enuagu ward in the area while Ugochukwu was the local government Coordinator of the National Youth Council Of Nigeria and a native of Amagu Mgbom village in Isu community. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

UVU/MNA

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

Attack
By Polycarp Auta
Jos, June 4, 2024 (NAN) The Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), Maj.-Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar, has said that criminal suspects attacked and destroyed crops on over 50 farmlands in Plateau and Kaduna States between April and May.

Abubakar, who doubles as the General Officer Commanding 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Rukuba, near Jos, said this at a siminar in Jos on Tuesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that OPSH is a special task force, established to maintain the peace and stability in Plateau and parts of Bauchi and Kaduna States.

The commander said that during the period under review, the division recorded over 20 cases of attacks on cattle.

Abubakar said that the seminar, tagged, ”Peaceful coexistence: Panecea for a successful farming season”, aimed at ensuring food security in the country.

He said: ”Between April and May alone, we have recorded over 50 cases of destruction of crops on farmlands in Plateau and Kaduna States.

”In the same period, we recorded 20 attacks on cattle and, in one of the instances, over 280 cows were killed.

”This is why this seminar is not only apt, but timely toward achieving a secured and successful farming season.

”The government is worried over the rising food insecurity in the country and so farmers and herders must come together to find a lasting solution to the persistent clashes in communities.”

Abubakar, said that the agricultural sector remains critical to the overall development of the country, hence the need for farming and herding to take place side-by-side.

He called on the people to desist from night and use of underage grazing as well as cow poisoning and deliberate destruction of crops on farmlands.

He said that such unwholesome practices were largely responsible for the rising cases of conflicts in communities.

The commander warned that anyone caught destroying farmlands and cows would be made to face the full wrath of the law.

He also called on residents of the affected states to support security agencies in their bid to ending all forms of insecurity in the area. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

AZA/USO
Edited by Sam Oditah

Air force chief visits 107 AMG, promises  projects completion

Project

By Nefishetu Yakubu

Benin, June 4, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has pledged his commitment to ensuring that all ongoing projects at the 107 Maritime Group (AMG), Nigerian Air Force, Benin, are completed.

Abubakar made the promise on Tuesday, while on an operational and oversight visit to 107 AMG, to inspect infrastructure within and outside the unit.

He noted that infrastructure was critical to the operations of the Nigerian Air Force.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that it was his first official visit to the unit since assumption of office in 2023.

He commended the personnel of the 107 Air Maritime Group for their contributions and outstanding initiatives, aimed at ensuring a secure Nigeria.

The air force chief used the opportunity to inaugurate a photo stand and keyed into the 1000 trees planting initiative of the Group.

He planted a tree in support of the ongoing tree planting campaign.

According to him, the tree planting initiative is a welcome development which will help to conserve the environment and improve healthy living.

Abubakar was accompanied on the visit by branch Chiefs, Directors and other senior officers from Nigerian Air Force headquarters.

He was received by the Commander, 107, Air Maritime Group, Group Capt. Eze Victor Onu, who briefed him on their activities.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

NY/KOO/SOA

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

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa/Oluwole Sogunle

NDLEA arrests 65-yr-old for allegedly dealing in illicit drugs

Arrest
By Muhammad Nasir
Sokoto June 4, 2024 (NAN) The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Sokoto State has arrested 65-year-old Musa Arzika for allegedly being in possession of 12.7 kg of Cannabis Sativa (otherwiswe called marijuana) and 12 grammes of tramadol.

The State NDLEA Commander,
Mr Adamu Iro, disclosed this during an interactive session with journalists in Sokoto on Tuesday.

Iro said that the suspect was arrested within the stronghold of bandits during Monday’s operation by the command’s operatives, supported by men of the Nigerian Army.

He said that Arzika, who has partial hearing impairment, was arrested at his residence in Gada Local Government Area of the state.

“The main concern is the age of the suspect and the area where he was arrested, which is known to be a bandit stronghold in the state.

“We cannot ignore the fact that most of these suspects are the ones supplying bandits with dangerous substances that aid their notorious activities.

“Today, we face significant security challenges in Sokoto and we are all aware that bandits have renewed their attacks on innocent citizens.

“It is clear that drug abuse and banditry are intertwined as drugs play a vital role in such activities,” he said.

The state NDLEA boss further described the suspect as a “long-time drug baron and dealer, partially deaf.

“However, despite his condition, he has continued to engage in illegal activities,” Iro said.

He further said that the suspect had been on the command’s radar, and had provided useful information regarding his activities and methods.

“We are confident that this arrest will significantly reduce the incidents of banditry in the area,” he said.

Iro urged the people of the state to continue to assist the security agencies with useful and timely information in their efforts toward ensuring a safe and secure environment for all. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

BMN/ARIS/USO
Edited by Idowu Ariwodola/Sam Oditah

Operation

By Hamza Suleiman

Maiduguri, June 4, 2024 (NAN) Troops of  the Multi National Joint Task Force (MNJTF), have killed 140 Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgents and arrested 57 others in Marte Local Government Area of Borno.

The Force Commander, Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim Ali, said this at a news  conference in Maiduguri on Tuesday.

Ali said the feat was recorded sequel to series of air interdiction at Tumbun Fulani and other locations in continuation of decisive offensive aimed at clearing remnants of the insurgents hibernating shores of the Lake Chad.

He said: “Operation LAKE SANITY 2 air interdictions have been highly effective. These aerial operations conducted by national Airforces from Chad, Nigeria and Cameroon have led to  destruction of crucial terrorist logistic bases and staging areas.

“It is particularly around Tumbum Fulani and other key locations. Over 140  terrorists were neutralised during these air strikes.”

He said that 176 terrorists surrendered while 57 others arrested for alleged terrorism.

The troops, recovered cache of weapons including 796 rounds of ammunition, one PKM machine gun, five AK-47 Rifles, two motorcycles, eight magazines, among others.

 “Since April 23, the dedicated troops have been relentless in their efforts, recently clearing some locations such as Doron Naira, Zanari, Bagadaza and other key terrorist’s strongholds in Lake Chad area.

“It is essential to acknowledge the sacrifices made during this phase; regrettably, we have recorded six casualties among the multinational troops since the operation began.

“Therefore, let me use this forum to further extend our deepest condolences and prayers for their eternal rest. Their bravery and sacrifice shall not be forgotten,” he said, adding that the success of Operation LAKE SANITY II, is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our troops.

He said the successes recorded by the troops through sustained operations was a critical step towards restoring peace and stability in the region.

While commending the the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and the troops contributing countries for their support, Ali reitrated commitment to a secure and safe Lake Chad region. 

“We also want to acknowledge the support provided by national operations such as Operation EMERGENCE 4 in Cameroon, Operation HADIN KAI in Nigeria, the Chadian national operations and Sector 4 in Diffa, Niger Republic.

“These operations have been instrumental as a blocking force for Operation LAKE SANITY II. Likewise, we express our gratitude to the media for your continuous support and cooperation as we proceed with our operations. We will keep you updated,”Ali said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

HMS/CHOM/RSA

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

Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Rabiu Sani-Ali

Competition

By Desmond Ejibas

Port Harcourt, June 4, 2024 (NAN) The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, has has began a two-day combat swimming contest for soldiers within its formations and units under the division.

The competition is part of the army’s 2024 training programme aimed at enhancing the swimming proficiencies of soldiers engaged in illegal bunkering and other amphibious operations within the creeks of the Niger Delta.

Maj.-Gen. Jamaal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) the division, at the opening on Tuesday that the soldiers would compete in conventional and combat swimming events.

He said that the army opted to organise an annual swimming training for troops after some soldiers drowned during amphibious operations.

“The soldiers drowned due to their lack of swimming skills, hence emphasising the importance of swimming as a focal point training aspect in the 6 Division.

“We intend to train as much soldiers as we can in the art of swimming throughout the year.

“This training aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy of having well-trained and well-equipped soldiers, ready for action when issues arise,” he said.

Abdussalam highlighted the evolution of soldering over the years following rising emerging security threats in Nigeria and globally.

“The dynamism and ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare has made it crucial for troops to possess the capability to navigate and thrive in riverine environments.

“As the guardians of Nigeria’s most vital assets in the South South region, we are tasked to secure our national infrastructures and ensure the seamless flow of strategic operations.

“Whether it is the swift crossing of raging rivers, rescuing of distressed comrades, or executing amphibious assaults, soldiers’ mastery of water-related skills will enhance our operations,” he emphasised.

The GOC urged participants to exhibit their best performance and imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play throughout the competition.

Brig.-Gen. Eddie Effiong, the Commander of 6 Division Garrison, said that 67 soldiers, comprising 55 males and 12 females from various formations and units under the division would participate in the exercise.

“These are 2 Brigade in Uyo, 6 Division Garrison in Port Harcourt, 16 Brigade in Yenagoa, and 63 Brigade in Asaba, Delta.

“The swimmers will showcase their skills in various swimming techniques like 50m backstroke, 50m butterfly, 50m freestyle and 50m breaststroke, among others.

“Although this is a competition, its primary goal is to enable troops to hone their skills and knowledge of water, he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

DES/EEE

=======

Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

Arrest
By Muhammad Tijjani
Kaduna, June 4, 2024 (NAN) The Police Command in Kaduna State says its operatives have arrested five notorious kidnap suspects in Kaduna, the state capital.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Tuesday in Kaduna.
Hassan said that the suspects had partaken in several kidnappings in the North-West zone of the country.
“On May 29, acting on a tip-off from a concerned citizen, a joint patrol team comprising officers from the Saminaka Division and the Hunters Group in Lere Local Government Area (LGA) successfully arrested three suspects involved in kidnapping and cattle rustling,” he said.
Hassan said that the suspects had confessed to being part of a kidnapping syndicate in Lere council area and admitted to stealing two cattle, which they sold to a 47-year-old man from Dokan Lere, who had also been arrested.
He listed the recovered items to include: a locally-made single-barrel gun, a cutlass and three mobile phones.
The spokesman said that the case had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) for further investigation.
In the same vein, he said that following credible intelligence information about suspicious movement of a bandit, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Tudun Wada Zaria Division led a swift action, resulting in the arrest of a 70-year-old man from Tudunjukun in Zaria.
He said that the arrest took place at about 2.50 a.m., adding that during the operation, an AK-47 rifle, a locally-made pistol and three cartridges were recovered from the suspect.
“The suspect is helping the police in their investigations to apprehend his accomplice and he will be charged to court as soon the investigation is completed,” he said.
Hassan said that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Ali Dabigi, assured the public of the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
He said that the command would continue to act decisively against criminal elements in the state. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
TJ/EBI/WAS
Edited by Benson Iziama and ‘Wale Sadeeq

Vandalism
By Onyeje Abutu-Joel
Makurdi, June 4, 2024 (NAN) Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Benue Command on Tuesday paraded eight persons over alleged vandalism of national assets, stealing and other crimes in the state.
Parading the suspects in Makurdi, the command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Michael Ejelikwu, said that other crimes committed by the suspects included: possession of vandalised items and cheating.
Ejelikwu said that one of the suspects, a 38-year-old scraps/iron dealer, was arrested for allegedly being in possession of vandalised NNPC pipes.
He said that the suspect was arrested on May 26 while driving his Ford Focus car, with registration number: ABUJA: AR 511 GWA, which contained the vandalised pipes.
Ejelikwu said that the suspect attempted to bribe the NSCDC personnel with the sum of N500,000 which they, however, resisted.
He said that the suspect had been a buyer of vandalised items from the other suspects arrested.
“If there is no market to sell the vandalised items, those boys will not continue to destroy government property and stealing them to go and sell,” he said.
The spokesman further said that four other suspects were arrested for alleged criminal conspiracy, willful destruction of high tension earth cables, vandalism and sabotage.
He said that the suspects, who were indigenes of different local governments in the state, were arrested on May 30 in Makurdi while committing the crimes.
Ejelikwu added that the other three suspects were arrested on same day at Vandeikya Local Government Area of the state for allegedly stealing a Honda C80 motorcycle.
He said all the suspects would be prosecuted after the conclusion of investigation.
The spokesman reiterated the command’s commitment to guarding against vandalism in the state. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
ONA/AH/WAS
Edited by Abdul Hassan and ‘Wale Sadeeq

Suspect

By Edeki Igafe

Warri (Delta), June 4, 2024 (NAN) The Police Command in Delta says it has neutralised a member of a three-man robbery syndicate in Ekpan, Uvwie Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s spokesman, SP Bright Edafe, told newsmen in Warri on Tuesday that the suspect was shot on Friday while trying to escape.

He said the undercover surveillance patrol team of the police of Ekpan Division was on a routine patrol on the Army Barracks Link Road when they met the suspected robbery gang.

According to him, the suspects, riding in a tricycle, on May 13, double-crossed the vehicle conveying the police team in their usual style, not knowing they were policemen.

“But on noticing that they were policemen, the hoodlums took to their heels.

“The police team chased them, and in the process, one of the suspects was arrested with a black bag containing one cut-to-size double barrel gun with two live cartridges,” he said.

Edafe said upon interrogation, the suspect confessed that the other two accomplices, who escaped from the tricycle, were his gang members.

The police spokesman quoted the suspect to have said that they either rob their victims or sometimes kidnap them in the metropolis.

Edafe said that following the confession of the suspect, the police ordered him to take them to their hideout at the NNPC Link Road, Ekpan.

“On their way to the hideout, the suspect jumped into the bridge in an attempt to escape and was maimed by the police operatives.

“The suspect was taken to the Ekpan General Hospital for medication but was there confirmed dead by the doctor on duty,” he said.

Edafe says efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing members of the gang. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

EDI/GOM/MAS
=============
Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam and Moses Solanke