Four kidnap victims rescued, bandits neutralised, murder and drug suspects arrested, and firearms recovered in coordinated operations
The Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant operational successes across Imo, Osun, Sokoto, Katsina, Nasarawa, Gombe and Akwa Ibom states.
The operations, conducted between 28 and 30 July 2026, resulted in the rescue of kidnap victims, the arrest of several suspects, the recovery of firearms and ammunition, and the interception of a stolen vehicle.
Four Kidnap Victims Rescued in Imo State
On 29 July 2026, police tactical teams in Imo State rescued four kidnap victims who sustained bullet wounds.
The victims were immediately taken to a hospital for medical attention. Three locally made firearms were also recovered from the scene.
Police operatives have intensified bush-combing operations to rescue any remaining victims and apprehend the kidnappers.
Investigation status: The State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID Owerri, is investigating the incident.
Murder Suspect Arrested in Osun State
Police operatives in Osun State arrested a suspect in connection with the alleged murder of a 12-year-old boy on 28 July 2026.
The suspect remains in police custody and is assisting investigators with information relevant to the case.
Investigation status: SCID Osogbo is investigating.
Bandit Attack Foiled in Sokoto State
Between 29 and 30 July 2026, tactical teams in Sokoto State repelled an attack by suspected bandits following a gun battle.
Two suspected bandits were neutralised during the operation. Police operatives recovered one locally fabricated pistol, 27 rounds of live ammunition and two cutlasses.
No casualties were recorded among security personnel or members of the affected community.
Investigation status: SCID Sokoto is investigating.
Stolen Vehicle Recovered in Sokoto State
In a separate operation, police operatives arrested a suspect found in possession of a stolen Toyota Prado reportedly belonging to the Chief Judge of Sokoto State.
The vehicle was intercepted and recovered during a stop-and-search operation.
Investigation status: SCID Sokoto is investigating.
Bandit Neutralised and AK-47 Recovered in Katsina
On 30 July 2026, police operatives, working with the Vigilante Community Response Unit, repelled a bandit attack in Katsina State.
One suspected bandit was neutralised during the gun battle. An AK-47 rifle and an operational motorcycle were recovered from the scene.
Investigation status: SCID Katsina is investigating.
Firearm and Suspected Illegal Minerals Recovered in Nasarawa
Anti-Kidnapping operatives in Nasarawa State executed a search warrant at the residence of a suspected kidnapper on 30 July 2026.
During the operation, officers recovered one locally made pistol, illicit drugs, cash and substances suspected to be illegally mined minerals.
The suspect reportedly fled before the arrival of the police, while efforts are ongoing to locate and arrest him.
Investigation status: SCID Lafia is investigating.
Armed Robbery Suspect Rescued from Mob in Gombe
Police operatives in Gombe State rescued a suspected armed robber from an attempted mob attack on 29 July 2026.
One cutlass and a motorcycle seat were recovered as exhibits.
Efforts are ongoing to arrest the suspect’s fleeing accomplices and recover the allegedly stolen motorcycle.
Investigation status: SCID Gombe is investigating.
Two Suspected Drug Dealers Arrested in Akwa Ibom
Two suspected drug dealers were arrested during an intelligence-led raid on a suspected criminal hideout in Akwa Ibom State on 29 July 2026.
Police operatives recovered a large quantity of substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
Investigations are ongoing, while efforts have been intensified to apprehend other suspected members of the group.
Investigation status: SCID Uyo is investigating.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Public Safety
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, disrupting criminal networks and bringing offenders to justice.
Members of the public were encouraged to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information about suspicious activities within their communities.
The operational update was issued by CSP Ani Iniedu, ANIPR, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
