The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced the arrest of 50 suspects linked to terrorism, kidnapping, and armed robbery in a series of coordinated operations across the country.
The arrests were disclosed during a press briefing held on April 13, 2026, at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) headquarters in Abuja, where police authorities described the development as a major breakthrough in the fight against high-profile crimes.
According to the police, the operations carried out between January and April 2026 targeted criminal syndicates responsible for violent activities threatening national security. The Force said its operatives dismantled several clandestine cells and recovered a large cache of weapons and equipment.
Items recovered include 17 rifles of various models, one anti-aircraft launcher, 111 rounds of live ammunition, 17 cartridges, five walkie-talkie communication devices, nine magazines, three mobile phones and a vehicle.
Among the major successes recorded was the dismantling of a 33-member gang allegedly involved in terrorism, cattle rustling and a violent attack on a church in Kwara State.
The police also confirmed the arrest of suspects linked to the killing of three officers attached to a divisional headquarters in Taraba State.
The Force further revealed that intensified operations in the Federal Capital Territory and neighbouring states led to the arrest of criminal groups engaged in “one-chance” abductions, car burglaries and the operation of fake police checkpoints. Authorities noted that these actions have helped recover stolen items and dismantle criminal networks preying on residents.
In a related development, operatives acting on intelligence arrested a 25-year-old suspect, Nasiru Ibrahim, in the Igumale area of Benue State.
He was found in possession of an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and eight rounds of live ammunition. Investigations linked him to a suspected bandit identified as Janari, who allegedly supplied the weapon.
Police authorities said efforts are ongoing to apprehend Janari and other members of the syndicate, as well as recover additional arms.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to ensuring a safer Nigeria, noting that several suspects are already set to face prosecution.
He added that the police would continue to deploy both human and technical intelligence to track down criminal elements and safeguard lives and property across the country.
