As Nigeria commemorates the first anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has proudly highlighted significant strides in crime reduction under the leadership of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun. Marking this milestone, the NPF detailed an impressive list of achievements in its ongoing fight against various forms of crime nationwide.
Over the past year, the NPF has intensified its operations, resulting in the apprehension of 4,826 armed robbery suspects, 3,078 kidnapping suspects, 2,479 suspects involved in rape and sexual crimes, 1,243 for unlawful possession of firearms, 3,523 for cultism, 3,381 for murder and homicide, and 13,402 suspects for other offenses. This relentless pursuit of justice has also led to the rescue of 1,750 kidnap victims and the recovery of 2,566 firearms, 19,510 rounds of ammunition, and 1,475 vehicles and motorcycles.
The NPF’s efforts have not only resulted in numerous arrests but also significant legal outcomes. In the past year, 29,152 criminal cases have been prosecuted, with 17,679 cases conclusively resolved. Among these, 16,200 convictions were secured, reflecting the NPF’s commitment to ensuring perpetrators are held accountable. Additionally, 11,576 cases are still under trial, and 51 cases are pending at various appellate courts.
Highlighting recent successes, the NPF paraded 19 suspects involved in diverse illicit activities. Notable among these were Muhammad Abubakar, 24, and Shehu Muhammad, 35, both from Zamfara State, who were apprehended with an AK-47 rifle and magazines. Their arrest, facilitated by a coordinated effort between Federal Intelligence Bureau – Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) operatives and local vigilantes in Asawa village, Kogi State, put an end to their series of robberies in Benin and multiple kidnappings in Okene, Kogi State.
These accomplishments underscore the NPF’s dedication to safeguarding the lives and properties of Nigerians. As the nation moves forward, the NPF’s continued efforts under IGP Egbetokun promise to enhance security and reduce crime across the country.
