07/09/2026
Police Record Major Operational Successes Across 10 States, Rescue Kidnap Victim and Child, Neutralise Bandits, Recover AK-47, Drugs and Other Weapons
The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a series of operational successes across 10 states, including the rescue of a kidnap victim after four days in captivity, the rescue of a child allegedly targeted for sale, the foiling of bandit attacks and the arrest of suspected illicit drug dealers.
The developments were contained in the State-by-State Executive Summary of the Force’s operational successes for September 7, 2026, signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu.
In Sokoto State, police tactical teams foiled a bandit attack on Yadiya Village, neutralising four suspected bandits. One AK-47 rifle, a magazine and 28 rounds of ammunition were recovered. The Police said no casualties were recorded.
In Rivers State, police rescued 41-year-old Kingsley Aleaga after he had reportedly spent four days in captivity at Ogale, Eleme Local Government Area. Three suspects were arrested in connection with the operation, while suspected hard drugs were also recovered.
In Niger State, police operatives engaged bandits during an attack on Pelegi Community in Mashegu LGA, neutralising one suspected bandit. The Force said efforts were ongoing to rescue five abducted victims and apprehend the fleeing attackers.
In Kebbi State, Police Mobile Force personnel engaged armed terrorists in a gun battle lasting more than two hours. Several attackers were reportedly neutralised, while reinforcements were deployed to restore normalcy in the affected area.
In Abia State, police arrested four suspects allegedly involved in an attempt to sell a one-year-four-month-old child. The child was rescued and placed in protective custody as investigations continue.
In Anambra State, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad arrested five suspected major illicit drug dealers at Umuota Village, Obosi. Police said large quantities of suspected cannabis sativa, methamphetamine, co***ne and Colorado were recovered, alongside other exhibits and ₦19,000 in cash.
In Katsina State, joint police and local tactical teams engaged armed bandits across communities in Bakori LGA. The operation reportedly forced the attackers to retreat and restored normalcy in the affected communities.
In Kwara State, police arrested two suspects allegedly involved in kidnapping and banditry. Recovered items included ₦770,000, two Infinix mobile phones, a locally made bulletproof vest and a power bank.
Also in Kwara, 25-year-old Afolabi Ayomide was arrested at Avalon Hotel, Offa, after allegedly threatening residents with a firearm. Police recovered one locally crafted Beretta pistol and six rounds of ammunition from the suspect.
In Cross River State, police rescued two severely injured victims following an assault reportedly linked to an unconfirmed allegation of stealing. The principal suspect was arrested, while the victims were taken to General Hospital, Calabar, for medical attention.
The Nigeria Police Force said efforts remain ongoing in the affected states to apprehend fleeing suspects, rescue abducted victims and maintain public safety.
The statement was issued by CSP Ani Iniedu, ANIPR, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
