The Nigeria Police Force has recorded major operational successes across 10 states, leading to the rescue of 25 abducted persons, recovery of firearms and ammunition, and the arrest of suspects linked to kidnapping, armed robbery, gun running and homicide.
The operations, carried out between August 29 and September 1, 2026, were highlighted in a state-by-state executive summary released by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu.
In Kogi State, joint security forces engaged suspected kidnappers in a gun duel forcing the criminals to flee and securing the rescue of 21 abducted victims, including 14 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The victims were rescued safely, while the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Lokoja commenced investigations.
In Zamfara State, security operatives foiled a bandit attack after armed men intercepted a passenger truck, abducted its occupants and set the vehicle on fire. Following an exchange of gunfire, the bandits fled, enabling the rescue of all abducted passengers unharmed.
Police operatives in Kaduna State recovered nine locally made revolver guns and 75 rounds of live ammunition from an accidented vehicle.
The recovered weapons were handed over to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for further investigation.
In Niger State, police tactical teams, supported by local vigilantes, engaged armed bandits along the Mongoro-Wamba Road, the bandits abandoned two abducted victims during the encounter, and both were rescued unhurt.
In Benue State, police arrested a suspected gun runner following credible intelligence. Recovered from the suspect were two locally fabricated pistols, a locally fabricated Type 06 rifle and live ammunition.
Similarly, security operatives in Oyo State rescued a kidnapping victim after sustained pressure and an exchange of gunfire forced the abductors to flee. The victim was reunited with family members.
In Katsina State, security forces thwarted an attempted cattle-rustling operation after intercepting armed bandits on August 31. The suspects were forced to retreat following a gun battle, while follow-up operations dislodged them from the area.
Police operatives in Kano State also ambushed suspected kidnappers linked to the abduction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman in Rogo Local Government Area.
The suspects escaped with suspected gunshot wounds, abandoning three motorcycles that were later recovered by the police.
In Ekiti State, two suspected armed robbers were arrested during a patrol operation in Ado-Ekiti. Police recovered a locally made pistol, two live cartridges and four mobile phones suspected to have been stolen.
Meanwhile, in Nasarawa State, police operatives working with local vigilantes arrested a wanted suspect in connection with a culpable homicide allegedly committed in May 2026. The suspect remains in custody pending further investigation.
CSP Ani Iniedu said the operations underscore the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to combating violent crime and safeguarding lives and property across the country.
He called on members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to support security efforts and aid the arrest of criminal elements.
