Police arrest prison escapee, 21 others in nationwide operations

The Nigeria Police Force says its Special Tactical Squad has arrested a fugitive from a correctional centre and 21 other suspects across several states for offences ranging from armed robbery and kidnapping to impersonation, car snatching, cattle rustling and drug trafficking.

Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, noting that the arrests followed intelligence-driven operations carried out nationwide.

According to the police, officers recovered six firearms — including LAR, AK-49 and AK-47 rifles, a pump-action gun and an SMG rifle — along with two rounds of ammunition.

Forty-five other items, including vehicles, motorcycles and substances suspected to be illicit drugs, were also seized.

Hundeyin explained that operatives intercepted a J5 vehicle along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway carrying 13 new motorcycles, weapons and other items.

Further investigation led to the arrest of 35-year-old Luke Ifeanyi, linked to armed robbery and economic sabotage.

Within the Federal Capital Territory, police also arrested an escapee from the Kuje Custodial Centre, identified as Ayo Abiodun, suspected of robbing a serving military officer.

Another suspect, 40-year-old Yusuf Shehu, was picked up for allegedly stealing a tricycle and impersonating a police officer, with uniforms and an identity card recovered from him.

Operatives further intercepted a vehicle transporting large quantities of substances believed to be cannabis and other controlled drugs.

In Edo State, four people were arrested over unlawful possession of firearms and alleged violent activities in a community.

Two suspected members of a car-snatching ring were also apprehended in Lagos and Ogun states.

Additionally, twelve suspects in Nasarawa and neighbouring states — linked to kidnapping, banditry and cattle rustling — were arrested, with more weapons recovered.

Hundeyin said investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be charged to court when inquiries are concluded.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their work and reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks and safeguarding citizens.

He urged the public to continue sharing credible information with security agencies.