Odita Sunday 
Police Arrest 280 Criminal Suspects, Rescue 189 Kidnap Victims in One Month
By Odita Sunday
The Nigeria Police Force has announced major nationwide operational breakthroughs recorded in April 2026, including the arrest of hundreds of suspected criminals and the rescue of nearly 200 kidnapped victims across the country.
The development, according to the Force, reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen intelligence-led policing and improve national security under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
In a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, the police disclosed that coordinated operations carried out by tactical and investigative units led to the arrest of 28 suspected terrorists, 85 suspected kidnappers, 62 armed robbery suspects, 51 murder and culpable homicide suspects, as well as 54 suspected cultists.
According to Placid, the operations formed part of sustained nationwide efforts to combat violent crimes, dismantle criminal networks, and strengthen internal security architecture across the federation.
The police spokesman further disclosed that operatives rescued 189 kidnapped victims from various criminal hideouts and captivity locations during the period under review.
He explained that the rescue operations were achieved through intelligence gathering, coordinated raids, and collaboration among different police formations and security agencies.
According to the statement, the operations also led to the recovery of 140 assorted firearms and 1,074 rounds of ammunition.
Placid added that police operatives also recovered 37 stolen vehicles linked to various criminal activities across the country.
Reacting to the operational successes, the Inspector-General of Police commended officers and personnel involved in the operations for their professionalism, resilience, and commitment to duty.
According to Placid, the IGP noted that the achievements reflected the growing effectiveness of intelligence-driven policing and enhanced inter-agency collaboration in addressing evolving security challenges nationwide.
The police spokesman further stated that the IGP reassured Nigerians that the Force remains determined to dismantle criminal syndicates, strengthen public safety, and sustain ongoing institutional reforms.
Placid added that the Nigeria Police Force would continue building a more accountable, professional, and people-centred policing system.
The Force also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, stressing that security remains a collective responsibility.
About the Author
