Terror cells, kidnappers, “one-chance” gangs busted as operatives dismantle 33-member network and recover heavy weapons across multiple states.

Terror cells, kidnappers, “one-chance” gangs busted as operatives dismantle 33-member network and recover heavy weapons across multiple states.

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The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a sweeping operational breakthrough, arresting 50 suspects linked to terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes in coordinated raids across the country.

The arrests and recoveries were unveiled during a press briefing at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) headquarters in Abuja, where officials detailed a series of intelligence-led operations targeting entrenched criminal networks.

Police said operatives recovered a cache of high-grade weapons, including 17 rifles, an anti-aircraft launcher, 111 rounds of live ammunition, cartridges, communication gadgets, and other tools used in coordinating attacks.

A major highlight of the operation was the dismantling of a 33-member syndicate implicated in terrorism, cattle rustling, and a deadly assault on a church in Kwara State. Authorities described the takedown as a significant disruption of organized violent activity in the region.

In Taraba State, police confirmed the arrest of suspects linked to the killing of three officers in Donga, marking what authorities called a crucial step toward justice for the slain personnel.

Meanwhile, in the Federal Capital Territory and neighbouring states, operatives clamped down on notorious “one-chance” robbery syndicates, fake checkpoint operators, and car theft rings, recovering stolen property and halting their operations.

In a separate operation in Benue State, a suspect identified as Nasiru Ibrahim was apprehended with an AK-47 rifle and ammunition. Investigations have tied him to a wanted bandit leader still on the run.

Reacting to the developments, Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed the Force’s resolve to intensify the crackdown on criminal elements nationwide. He disclosed that several suspects are being processed for prosecution, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend fleeing accomplices.

The police said the coordinated operations underscore a sustained strategy to dismantle criminal networks, strengthen intelligence-led policing, and improve public safety across Nigeria.