Two farmers kidnapped in Edo State have been rescued by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force. The police also arrested eight suspects linked to cultism, arms trafficking, and car theft across Delta, Katsina, and Adamawa States, recovering several weapons and stolen vehicles in the process.
Force spokesperson ACP Muyiwa Adejobi shared the update on Monday, confirming that the coordinated operations were part of ongoing nationwide efforts to disrupt criminal networks and improve public safety.
On June 26, Godday Irieude and Wisdom Emeka were abducted from their farmland in the Ewatto area of Edo State around 1 a.m. Police officers, working with local vigilantes, tracked the kidnappers to their camp. A gun battle broke out, but the criminals fled with injuries. The two victims were rescued without harm.
In Delta State, officers acting on a search warrant arrested two suspected cultists—Koko Josh, 29, and Asomugha Clinton, 27—in Mosogar. Items recovered from their residence included a fabricated Beretta pistol, two locally made guns, live cartridges, phones, a laptop, and fetish objects. The investigation led to the arrest of two other suspected cult members, Anthony Kelvin, 26, and Gift Amotsuka, 25.
In Okpanam, also in Delta, police arrested Ekene Chroma, 36, and Okafor Jonathan, 18. They were found with two English-made single-barrel guns and 110 cartridges. Authorities believe the duo worked as arms couriers for wanted criminals.
Meanwhile, in Katsina State, the Force Intelligence Department’s Response Team arrested 40-year-old Yunusa Ishaku in Funtua. He was caught with a stolen Toyota Hiace and a Toyota Camry. Ishaku admitted to being part of a vehicle theft ring that operates across Abuja, Jos, and other cities. He revealed that stolen cars were sent to Niger Republic for resale and gave up the locations of three other stolen vehicles in Zamfara and Bauchi.
In Adamawa, intelligence officers arrested 52-year-old Alhaji Iya Bima from Kem Shithem LGA. He was caught with an AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and 50 rounds of ammunition. His confession led to the recovery of another rifle, three additional magazines, and 50 more rounds.
All suspects are expected to be charged after investigations conclude. Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, reiterated the Force’s commitment to proactive intelligence and dismantling criminal groups. He encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through emergency contacts.
