How we aided police in arrest of Abuja robbery gang linked to Arise News staff killing – NFSS

The Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS) has revealed that its operatives collaborated with the Nigeria Police Force to apprehend a notorious robbery gang operating in Abuja, connected to the killing of Arise News staffer, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, and a security guard, Barnabas Danlami.

Assistant Commander-General of the NFSS, North Central Zonal Command, Abdulhakeem Ibrahim, made this known while briefing journalists, noting that the arrests followed a joint operation targeting a group known for violent attacks in Zuba and neighbouring communities.

According to Ibrahim, the operation was launched after the gang carried out two consecutive raids on a popular hotel in Zuba.

Acting on police directives, NFSS operatives mounted a checkpoint near the facility, which ultimately led to the gang’s interception.

“When the gang returned for another attack, they ran into our checkpoint.

“After a short chase, they fled, leaving behind their driver, who was later apprehended and handed over to the police,” he explained.

Further investigation, he said, led to the arrest of additional suspects and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, a pump-action gun, and a Beretta pistol from the gang’s hideout.

Ibrahim praised the strong collaboration between the NFSS and the police, describing it as vital to maintaining security and improving grassroots intelligence.

“Police cannot do without us, and we cannot do without the police.

“That is how we work,” he said.

He also appealed to the government to support the NFSS, lamenting that many operatives have served for years without remuneration or welfare packages.

“Our operatives risk their lives daily to assist formal security agencies. We only ask for support to keep doing our job,” he stated.

The NFSS official commended the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for recognising the organisation’s contributions to national security, and lauded the Commander-General, Dr. Joshua Osatimehin, and the Deputy Commander-General (Intelligence), Dr. John Metchie, for their leadership.

Ibrahim reaffirmed the NFSS’s commitment to continued collaboration with other security agencies in combating crime and strengthening community safety across the country.