The Nigeria Police have neutralised seven suspected terrorists and recovered 23 firearms in a series of tactical operations across the country.

Police spokesperson, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this in a statement, noting that the Force had intensified its operational strategies to curb criminal activities and bolster internal security.

Adejobi recounted that on Valentine’s Day, armed men invaded Gobiraje Village in Suru Local Council of Kebbi State and abducted a 60-year-old man, Umaru Bawa. Upon receiving the report, police operatives from the Kebbi State Command pursued the suspects to Tundafari Forest in the Dakingari axis of the state.

The operatives engaged the kidnappers in a fierce gunfight, neutralising four suspects, arresting one with fatal injuries, and rescuing the victim unharmed. Also, the police recovered N3 million, which had been paid to the kidnappers as ransom.

In another operation on February 8, police operatives attached to the Imo State Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, dismantled an IPOB/ESN terrorist camp in Ezioha Mbaitolu, Umuele Umuaka Njaba Local Council. The operation resulted in the neutralisation of two ESN kingpins and the recovery of seven AK-47 rifles, 13 pump-action guns, hundreds of live ammunition, and other items.

The following day, February 9, operatives advanced to the Nkwukwo Forest in Mbaitoli Local Council, near the boundary with Ubachima Forest in Awomama Oru West Local Council.

There, they intercepted a group of terrorists, who opened fire on sighting the police. The ensuing exchange led to the neutralisation of three terrorist kingpins. The operatives recovered two AK-47 rifles loaded with 36 rounds of live ammunition, one pump-action gun, four motorcycles, a cutlass, and several criminal charms.

Adejobi stated, “These operations not only reflect the commitment of the Force to maintaining law and order but also demonstrate its determination to dismantle criminal networks that threaten citizens’ safety.”

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their bravery and emphasised the need for continued vigilance in the fight against crime. He assured Nigerians of sustained operations aimed at creating a safer environment and urged citizens to engage in intelligence gathering and promptly report suspicious activities.

“The police remain committed to protecting lives and property, reinforcing community trust, and fostering a peaceful and secure nation,” Adejobi added.