- Operatives nab three child traffickers, rescue 14 children in Ondo
Operatives of the Nigeria Police, in synergy with other security agents, have foiled some bandits’ attacks in Kogi and Katsina States.
They engaged the suspected bandits in gun duel and overpowered them, according to a statement issued on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
Adejobi said the officers were able to kill a total of eight suspected bandits in the two states, while other escaped with gunshot injuries.
He also disclosed that many arms and ammunition were recovered in the operations.
“On January 18th 2025, Police operatives attached to the Kogi State Command got information of a group of armed bandits holding a strategic meeting for possible attack at a forest in Budon, Kogi State.
“Gallant operatives of the Command were mobilized and deployed to the scene. Upon sighting the police operatives, the bandits engaged the police operatives in a fierce gun duel. Fortunately, the bandits were overpowered, with one bandit neutralized and 4 others arrested. The operatives also recovered 1 AK-47 rifle, 2 magazines, 30 rounds of live ammunition and 2 motorcycles,” he said.
Similarly, the police image maker, explaied that on same January 18, 2025, “a distress call was received at the Dutsinma Divisional Police Headquarters, Katsina State that some suspected armed bandits, armed with dangerous weapons, were headed to attack Ruwan Doruwa Village, Dutsinma LGA of the State. Upon receipt of this call, Police operatives in collaboration with other security agencies mobilized, intercepted the armed bandits and engaged them in a fierce gun battle ultimately leading to the neutralization of 7 of the bandits, with the rest of the gang fleeing and abandoning 109 livestock suspected to be rustled animals.”
According to him, the milestone achievements were recorded through intelligence-led policing, adding that the Force has been working in line with its commitment at the beginning of the year to adopt a more proactive approach in its efforts to combat crime across the nation.
He also stated that the Force has escalated its initiatives to combat human trafficking and the operation of illegal baby factories by successfully rescuing 14 children who were abducted for child trafficking business in Akure, capital of Ondo State.
Adejobi said three syndicate were arrested by the Ondo State Police Command, following intelligence regarding a missing child at Okuta Elerin-Nla, Akure.
“The operatives apprehended members of the syndicate, identified as Abosede Olanipekun ‘f’, Lukman Isiaka ‘m’, and Sabira Izuorah ‘f’, and rescued 14 children between the ages of 1 week – 7 years old,” he added.
He further disclosed that more than 207 abducted children have been rescued from suspected traffickers nationwide. The statement, however, did not specify the period in which the rescues were made.
The FPRO said the success of the operations is a significant blow against those who serve as threats to the nation’s security, contributing to the overall efforts of the Force to enhance public safety.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in the dedication to duty and commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens. The Force will continue to take a firm stance against criminal activities and ensure that offenders are brought to justice, reaffirming its role as the protector of peace and security of our society,” he assured Nigerians.
