Police

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Bauchi State Police Command has begun an investigation into the suspected killing of a teenager in Kari Village, Darazo Local Government Area of the state, according to a police statement.

The statement was issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command, on June 3, 2026.

Police authorities said the incident was reported to the Divisional Police Headquarters in Darazo on May 24, 2026, at about 4:15 p.m.

According to the command, the report alleged that Abdullahi Muhammad, a 17-year-old resident of Kari Village, drowned in the Kari River under circumstances linked to another resident of the community, Aisanu Nura, aged 18.

Findings from an initial investigation indicated that the suspect allegedly persuaded the deceased to accompany him to the river before he was drowned.

Police operatives from the Darazo Division responded to the report and arrested the suspect. Investigators have since commenced inquiries into the matter.

The command disclosed that the body of the victim had not been recovered as of the time of the statement, while efforts to locate it were still underway.

The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Bauchi for further investigation.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, mni, psc (+), directed investigators to conduct a thorough and professional probe into the incident.

He assured residents that the circumstances surrounding the case would be fully uncovered and that anyone found responsible would face prosecution in line with the law.

The police command also called on parents and guardians to pay closer attention to teenagers under their care and encouraged members of the public to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Bauchi State Police Command says its newly created Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) has recorded a significant success in efforts to curb street violence in the state capital after apprehending eight suspected thugs linked to a clash between rival groups.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command, on June 2, 2026.

According to the statement, the incident occurred on May 29, 2026, at about 8:10 p.m. when VCRU operatives on patrol in the Jahun area received information that rival groups from Sabuwar Kasuwa Railway and Sabuwar Titi had engaged in a violent confrontation near the Fadan Bayam area of Jahun.

Police said members of the groups allegedly blocked a major road and were armed with sticks and cutlasses during the clash.

Upon receiving the report, officers moved to the scene, dispersed the hoodlums with teargas and restored order in the area. During the operation, one suspect identified as Abdulaziz Hashim, 16, of Sabuwar Kasuwa Railway, was arrested with a cutlass.

The command stated that further investigations led to the identification and arrest of seven additional suspects on May 31, 2026. They were listed as Mohammed Abubakar, 21, of Sabuwar Kasuwa; Ibrahim Almustafa, 15, of Sabuwar Kasuwa; Ahmad Rufai, 14, of Unguwan Jaja; Umar Isiyaka, 16, of Sabuwar Kasuwa; Habir Umar, 18, of Sabuwar Kasuwa; Aliyu Babangida, 15, of Sabuwar Kasuwa; and Usman Aliyu of Unguwan Jaja.

Police said all the suspects were interrogated and subsequently charged to court, while efforts continue to track down other members of the group who escaped arrest.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, mni, psc (+), praised the VCRU operatives for what he described as their swift response and professionalism.

He also reaffirmed the command’s determination to dismantle criminal gangs and maintain security across Bauchi metropolis for law-abiding residents.

The police further urged parents and guardians to discourage their children and wards from participating in thuggery and other violent activities that could threaten public peace.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Bauchi State Police Command has launched an investigation into an armed robbery and kidnapping case linked to an incident that occurred along the Abuja–Kaduna highway, leading to the arrest of a suspect and the recovery of a stolen vehicle.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command.

According to the statement, the case was reported at the ‘A’ Division Police Station in Township, Bauchi, on May 27, 2026, at about 7:20 p.m., according to the police.

The complainant, a professional driver who resides in the Zanda area along Gwagwa Dede Road, Church Street, Abuja, told investigators that he was attacked and abducted by suspected criminals while carrying out a transport assignment.

Police said the driver explained that on May 21, 2026, at about 7:00 a.m., a man hired him to transport wedding guests from Kaduna State to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, for an agreed fee of ₦400,000.

During the journey, the passenger reportedly asked the driver to take a different route through Kuyello Village in Kaduna State. Upon arrival in the area, armed men riding three motorcycles allegedly intercepted the vehicle.

According to the police, the passenger was later identified as Idris Mohammed, also known as Yellow, a resident of Badaromo Village in Ganjuwa Local Government Area of Bauchi State. Investigators said he allegedly instructed the driver to stop before the armed men attacked him.

The assailants reportedly beat the victim with rifle butts and held him captive for 24 hours.

Police said the driver eventually regained his freedom after paying a ransom of ₦3 million through a transfer to an OPay account.

The suspects were also accused of taking away the victim’s red Toyota Corolla with manual transmission, a Tecno Pop 10 mobile phone valued at ₦130,000, ₦15,000 in cash, and a wristwatch worth ₦10,000.

Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer of ‘A’ Division, Township, coordinated an intelligence-led operation that lasted three days. The operation led to the recovery of the stolen vehicle and the arrest of the principal suspect.

The command stated that the suspect had confessed to involvement in the crime and had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Bauchi for further investigation and prosecution.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, mni, psc (+), assured residents that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other suspects who remain at large and recover the remaining stolen property.

He also advised members of the public to be vigilant when engaging commercial transport services and to promptly report suspicious movements to the nearest police station.

By Uzair Adam

The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested four suspects in connection with an alleged Hajj seat fraud involving more than N9 million.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Nafiu Abubakar, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, identifying the main suspect as Aminu Hassan Zauro.

Others arrested alongside him are Tabiu Abubakar, Usman Attahiru and Mustapha Sani Zauro.

According to the police, four additional suspects — Bello Jos, Atiku Store, Umar Gimba and Usman Bunza — are currently on the run.

Abubakar explained that the arrests followed a complaint filed by the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency after discrepancies were discovered in the records of some intending pilgrims.

Preliminary investigations revealed that Aminu Hassan Zauro allegedly obtained N8.6 million from a victim with a false promise of securing two Hajj seats for the 2026 pilgrimage despite lacking any authorised access to Hajj slots.

The suspect was also accused of collecting another N690,000 from a different victim under the same pretence.

Police further stated that the suspect allegedly attempted to conceal the fraud by issuing victims unauthorised Hajj materials, including branded bags, hijabs, wrappers and fake medical cards.

Items recovered during the investigation include the materials and a Tecno Android phone.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Bello Sani, urged intending pilgrims to transact only with the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency and accredited officials to avoid being defrauded.

By Uzair Adam

Operatives of the Kano State Police Command have arrested four suspected drug dealers during coordinated raids across parts of Kano metropolis.

The operation, carried out by the Command’s Special Intervention Squad (SIS) and officers from the Gezawa Police Division, followed directives from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on intelligence-led and community-oriented policing.

Police said the arrests were made after credible intelligence gathered from public tips and surveillance operations.

On May 23, 2026, SIS operatives arrested Abdulsalam Muhammad, 30, of Hotoro in Nassarawa Local Government Area, and Murtala Sani, 34, of Zangon Dakata in Ungoggo Local Government Area, along Nassarawa GRA.

The suspects were allegedly found with a Bagco sack containing suspected illicit drugs.

During interrogation, Abdulsalam reportedly confessed that the sack contained Tramadol supplied by two accomplices who are currently on the run.

A subsequent search of the sack led to the recovery of 23 rolls of Tramadol, with each roll containing 10 packs.

Police said both suspects confessed to the crime, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing accomplices.

In a separate operation, officers attached to Gezawa Police Division arrested Sama’ila Ado, 40, from Dabi Village in Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State, at a known black spot in Bangare Village for allegedly selling Cannabis Sativa openly.

Police recovered 130 wraps and half a block of dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis Sativa from the suspect. Authorities said he would be arraigned before a Magistrate Court.

Similarly, Umar Salisu, 25, of Yunbu Village in Gabasawa Local Government Area, was arrested at Gezawa Mesanda black spot.

Recovered from him were 10 wraps of suspected Cannabis Sativa and two bottles of rubber solution.

The Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, commended the officers involved in the operations for their professionalism and dedication.

He also appreciated residents of the state for providing useful information that aided the arrests, urging members of the public to continue reporting suspicious activities to security agencies.

Bakori reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to tackling crime and ensuring the safety of residents across the state.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Police Force has started disciplinary proceedings against a police officer, Newton Isokpehi, after a video surfaced online in which he threatened members of the public who record officers on duty.

In the viral clip, the officer also warned that he could shoot passengers inside a vehicle if anyone attempted to film him while carrying out his duties.

Isokpehi, who claimed to have spent twenty-six years in the police force, complained about the welfare and working conditions of officers during the video.

“Any day I’m on duty as an officer while holding my rifle, let someone video me,” he warned.

“That oga who gave the order that police officers should be filmed, he will do your burial. I will kill anyone who films me on duty.”

Reacting to the incident, the Anambra State Police Command confirmed that the officer had been invited for questioning and disciplinary action.

In a statement released on Thursday, police spokesperson Anthony Placid said the command does not support threats, intimidation or abuse of office by any personnel.

Placid stated that citizens have the right to record police officers while carrying out lawful duties, provided such actions do not obstruct operations or compromise security.

“The force wishes to state unequivocally that the conduct and utterances exhibited in the video are unacceptable, unprofessional, and inconsistent with the ethics, standards, and code of conduct of the Nigeria Police Force,” the statement reads.

“Such actions run contrary to the ongoing reform initiatives of the Force aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, professionalism, and citizen-focused policing.

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, has consistently maintained that members of the public have the right to lawfully record police officers carrying out their duties, provided such recording does not obstruct operations, compromise safety, or interfere with lawful police activities.

“In line with this position, the officer involved has since been identified and summoned to the Anambra State Command Headquarters where immediate disciplinary procedures have commenced.

“A formal statement detailing the outcome of the disciplinary measures taken against the officer will be communicated in due course.”

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Police Command has introduced a new tactical formation, the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), in a renewed push to curb kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent offences across the state.

Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, announced the development during the unit’s inauguration, describing it as a major boost to efforts aimed at safeguarding lives and property in Kano.

He explained that the unit, which was established on April 24, 2026, followed directives from the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to strengthen intelligence-driven policing and improve operational effectiveness.

According to Bakori, the VCRU is a specialised team equipped to confront serious security threats, including banditry and organised violent crimes that continue to affect communities and economic activities.

“Our goal is simple: to reduce response time, dominate public spaces and deny criminals the freedom to operate within Kano State,” he said.

The police chief added that the unit would prioritise swift response to emergencies, proactive crime prevention strategies, as well as thorough investigation and prosecution of suspects.

He noted that personnel assigned to the unit underwent rigorous screening and specialised training in tactical operations, intelligence gathering, and human rights standards to ensure professionalism in line with global best practices.

Bakori stressed that discipline, integrity, and respect for human rights would guide the operations of the unit, assuring residents that the command would remain accountable for its activities.

He further revealed that the VCRU would depend largely on real-time intelligence, data analysis, and credible information from the public, urging residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful tips.

To strengthen transparency, the command also inaugurated a Civilian Oversight Board made up of civil society representatives, traditional leaders, legal practitioners, and community stakeholders.

The board, he said, is expected to promote public confidence and encourage inclusive policing.

The inauguration ceremony drew the attendance of senior police officers and community members, many of whom welcomed the initiative as a timely intervention to address the state’s security challenges.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced the death of 17 of its personnel following a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.

The attack, which occurred in the early hours of May 8, 2026, claimed the lives of the officers who were undergoing specialised operational training at the facility.

The statement was signed by DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the Force Public Relations Officer at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, who conveyed the official position of the police on the tragic incident.

According to the statement, the terrorists launched a coordinated assault on the training institution from multiple directions at about 1:15 a.m., overwhelming the facility.

Several personnel of the Nigerian Army were also reported killed while bravely repelling the attack.

Reacting to the incident, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, described the fallen officers as courageous and dedicated, noting that they demonstrated exceptional patriotism through their participation in advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training programmes.

He said the Force deeply mourns their loss and stands in solidarity with their families.

“Their sacrifices will never be forgotten,” the IGP said, while extending heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families on behalf of the entire police force.

In a show of support, the Commissioner of Police in Yobe State, Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the training school on behalf of the IGP.

During the visit, he commiserated with the Commandant of the institution, A. C. Enuagu, as well as officers of the Nigerian Army and surviving police personnel.

Jibrin praised the resilience of the surviving officers and urged them to remain resolute in completing their training programme in honour of their fallen colleagues, noting that their commitment would serve as a tribute to those who lost their lives.

The police further assured Nigerians that it is working closely with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to bring those responsible for the attack to justice.

The Force reiterated its commitment to national security, pledging that the courage and service of the fallen officers would continue to be honoured.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Bauchi State Police Command says it has arrested a suspected armed robber in connection with an attack on a residence in Bara Village, Kirfi Local Government Area of the state.

The command disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib.

According to the statement, the incident occurred in the early hours of May 9, 2026, when a group of five armed men reportedly stormed the home of a resident identified as Ibrahim.

The police said the attackers, who allegedly carried sticks and cutlasses, assaulted the victim before taking away several valuables from the house.

Items reportedly stolen during the operation included a bow and arrow, five mobile phones, two solar panels and cash amounting to ₦422,000.

The statement noted that the victim later reported the matter to the Bara Police Out Station at about 6:00 a.m. on the same day.

Following the complaint, police operatives attached to the outpost and Kirfi Division launched an investigation that led to the arrest of a 19-year-old suspect, Naziru Alhaji Usman, from Tudun Sullubawa Hamlet through Bara Village in Kirfi LGA.

Police said officers recovered some exhibits believed to be connected to the robbery, including a bow and arrow, a cutlass and one solar panel.

“The suspect is currently in custody at the Out Station and is providing useful information to aid investigations,” the statement said.

The command added that efforts were ongoing to track down other suspects linked to the crime and recover the remaining stolen property.

It also stated that the case would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Bauchi for further investigation before prosecution.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, praised the operatives for their swift response and restated the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

He also appealed to residents to continue assisting security agencies with credible information, which he described as important in tackling crime across the state.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A police inspector identified as Abdulkadir Garba has died after a lightning strike hit him in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

The incident happened on Wednesday opposite the headquarters of the Borno State Police Command.

Garba, who was widely known as “Buratai,” was said to be controlling vehicle parking with a senior officer, ASP Wazani Adamu, when the tragedy occurred at about 2:19 p.m.

The spokesperson of the Borno State Police Command, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, confirmed the incident in a statement.

According to him, the officers noticed strong winds that suggested rainfall was approaching and tried to move to safety before lightning struck them.

“Rain often comes with its own blessings, but this one arrived with a heartbreaking streak of tragedy,” Daso said.

“It was on a quiet Wednesday, May 7, 2026, at about 2:19 p.m., when Inspector Abdulkadir Garba, popularly known as ‘Buratai,’ a police officer widely respected for his dedication, commitment and passion for duty, was carrying out his routine responsibility of coordinating vehicle parking opposite the Borno State Police Command headquarters alongside his senior colleague, ASP Wazani Adamu.”

Daso stated that a loud thunder sound was heard moments before the lightning struck the two officers.

He said ASP Adamu survived the incident, while Inspector Garba sustained partial burns and died from the impact.

“Unfortunately, Inspector Abdulkadir Garba, who was directly impacted, sadly lost his life,” Daso said.

The police spokesman described the deceased officer as diligent and committed to his work.

“He lost his life, not to violence or conflict, but to the force of the storm,” he said.

“Inspector Abdulkadir Garba was more than a police officer to many; he was a familiar face, a hardworking officer and a symbol of dedication to service.”

Daso added that the officer’s death had thrown colleagues, friends and residents into mourning.

“Sometimes, life reminds us how fragile and unpredictable it can be. One moment, duty calls. The next moment, eternity answers,” the statement added.