Police rescue 15 abducted victims, neutralize bandits in multi-state operations

By Stanley Onyekwere

The Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant operational breakthroughs across seven states, resulting in the rescue of 15 kidnapped victims, the neutralization of armed bandits, and the recovery of illegal firearms and stolen property.
The developments were announced in an executive operational report released on August 11, 2026, by Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, highlighting successful police-led interventions between August 9 and 10.
It revealed that Police-led operatives conducted an intelligence-driven rescue operation and intensive bush-combing following the abduction of 15 individuals in Kogi state on August 10.
It added that operatives engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel, neutralizing several perpetrators while others fled with gunshot wounds.
“All 15 victims were safely rescued, debriefed, and reunited with their families,” the statement noted.
The Police also disclosed that it’s tactical teams responded to an attack on the Tse Udi Community in Tombo Council Ward of Benue State on August 10.
According to the statement, in a fierce firefight, police neutralized one armed bandit while others escaped into the surrounding forest.
It added that officers recovered an AK-47 rifle loaded with 17 rounds of live ammunition.
In Bayelsa State, the Police said operatives arrested a suspect on August 9 in connection with a fatal shooting at Inburutoru, Nembe, saying that a double-barrel gun and an empty cartridge were recovered at the scene.
According to the Police, responding to a tip-off regarding a suspicious hotel guest in Udenu Local Government Area, of Enugu state on August 10, detectives arrested a suspect who confessed to belonging to an active armed robbery syndicate.
It noted that a locally-made pistol and live ammunition were recovered.
Furthermore, Police raided a residence in Efon-Alaaye on August 10, arresting four suspected cult members in Ekiti State.
It added that search operations yielded a locally-made pistol, axes, cutlasses, and knives.
While in Ondo State, detectives acting on credible intelligence arrested a suspect at Kajola trying to sell a stolen ash-coloured Mercedes-Benz GLK.
“The suspect admitted to stealing the luxury vehicle from his employer in Lagos State,” the statement added.
In Lagos State, Police and fire services coordinated a rapid response to a residential fire outbreak in Itire on August 9.
While the residential bungalow was destroyed, the fire was successfully contained without any recorded casualties or loss of life.
The Force Headquarters confirmed that all cases, suspects, and recovered items have been transferred to the respective State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs) for discreet investigation and prosecution.