The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced significant successes in recent operations across the country, including the rescue of 7 kidnapped victims in Niger State and the arrest of two suspects identified as Lookman Tanko and Peter Apai in Taraba State.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Sunday, these breakthroughs were made possible through a potent combination of human intelligence and expertly coordinated operations.
“Recently, a group of suspected kidnappers invaded Tungan-Boka and Masaha villages of Mashegu LGA of Niger State and kidnapped seven persons, operatives of the Niger State Police Command in collaboration with local security teams, mobilized for a rescue operation, and trailed the suspected kidnappers to a forest within Tungan-Boka village where the kidnappers were engaged in a gun duel.
“In the ensuing duel, the kidnappers were overpowered, and the seven kidnapped persons were rescued unhurt,” the statement noted.
In a separate operation in Plateau State, police operatives attached to the state command, acting on credible intelligence, raided a criminal hideout along Bauchi Road in Jos North Local Government Area (LGA).
During the raid, they recovered an abandoned ash-coloured Golf Wagon and a subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of 500 rounds of 7.65mm ammunition.
“These recoveries are linked to an ongoing investigation into a culpable homicide case reported on May 3, 2025, where an unidentified individual was killed. Efforts are being intensified to locate and arrest the perpetrators of these acts,” Adejobi stated.
He further revealed that in another development in Taraba State, police operatives attached to the state command, acting on credible intelligence, trailed a gang of suspected kidnappers.
“Upon confrontation, one of the suspects identified as Lookman Tanko, was arrested. Recovered from him were one AK-47 rifle, one pump-action rifle, and one long gun.
“Furthermore, detectives from the FID IRT successfully arrested Peter Apai, a 45-year-old male from Mubai District, Ardo Kola LGA, Taraba State, following credible intelligence regarding kidnappers and illegal possession of arms,” he stated.
The spokesperson revealed that during the operation, one AK-47 rifle, one pump-action shotgun, and one AK-47 magazine were recovered from the suspect.
He added that both suspects are in custody, undergoing investigation, and will be charged to court soon.
Reacting to the successful operations, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the officers and men involved for their bravery, dedication, and commitment to duty.
IGP Egbetokun charged them to remain steadfast in dismantling criminal syndicates operating across the country.
The security agency encouraged citizens to provide relevant information that could assist in the ongoing investigations, acknowledging that the collaborative efforts of the police and the public are absolutely crucial in ensuring the safety and security of communities across the country.
