Police Operations Across States Lead to High-Profile Arrests, Arms Seizures

Livinus Chibuike July 14, 2026

The Nigeria Police Force has recorded major operational successes across several states, including the arrest of a notorious IPOB/ESN kingpin, the rescue of a kidnapped farmer, the apprehension of suspected criminals and the recovery of arms, ammunition and other incriminating exhibits.

In Enugu State, police operatives arrested a notorious IPOB/ESN kingpin, Chinonso Umeh, also known as “Onye Army,” during an operation in Imo State. Recovered from the suspect were a revolver pistol, an AK-47 rifle, assorted ammunition and charms. In a separate operation, officers on patrol arrested two suspects, Asanya Nnamdi and Abugu Tochukwu, and recovered a pump-action gun, 22 live cartridges, a knife, an Allen key and ₦239,200 in cash. The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Enugu, has commenced investigations into both cases.

In Kano State, police arrested a 28-year-old suspect, Muhammad Isa, for allegedly impersonating military personnel and suspected involvement in banditry. Two accomplices identified as Atiku and Alhassan escaped during the operation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend them. Items recovered include an AK-47 magazine loaded with 30 rounds of live ammunition, an additional 79 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two pairs of military uniforms, three military caps, a suspected fake military identity card, a national identity card, ATM cards and a pair of desert boots. Investigation is ongoing.

In Zamfara State, tactical police teams, working alongside other security agencies, were deployed to suspected escape routes following a bandit attack on Geba village. The operation is aimed at tracking and apprehending the fleeing attackers, while the SCID in Gusau is investigating the incident.

In Niger State, detectives responded to a reported double homicide at Woko village, where they visited the crime scene and evacuated the victims’ bodies to the General Hospital, New-Bussa, for autopsy. The SCID in Minna has launched an investigation, with efforts underway to identify and arrest those responsible.

In Oyo State, police operatives, supported by Amotekun personnel, vigilantes and local hunters, successfully rescued kidnapped farmer Owoade Mathew during sustained bush-combing operations. The victim was rescued unharmed and reunited with his family. The SCID in Ibadan is investigating both the kidnapping and an associated armed robbery case.

In Ogun State, detectives visited the scene of an armed robbery at Simawa, while another operation led to the arrest of Mubarak Ibrahim and Mohammed Yusuf at Ogere Trailer Park Market for allegedly vandalising and stealing electrical infrastructure. Stolen electrical conductors and other equipment were recovered, and the suspects are expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations by the SCID in Eleweran.

Meanwhile, in Cross River State, police tracked down and arrested a rape suspect, Henry Erim. The survivor was taken to Cottage Hospital, Akpet Central, for medical examination, while the suspect reportedly confessed to the offence and remains in police custody. The SCID in Calabar is continuing investigations.