Police Neutralize Three Bandits, Seize Ten AK-47 Rifles in Major Security Operations

The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing nationwide crackdown on armed criminal syndicates, neutralizing three notorious bandits and recovering ten high-powered rifles during coordinated tactical operations across several states.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the latest success follows a series of intelligence-led missions carried out by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department – Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) in Taraba, Plateau, Adamawa, Nassarawa, and Niger States throughout July 2025.

“These operations are a direct result of credible intelligence and strategic coordination among field units. We are committed to staying ahead of criminal elements that threaten national security,” the spokesperson said.

During several gun battles, police operatives engaged armed bandits who opened fire and attempted to flee upon encountering the security teams. Three of the suspects were fatally subdued in the exchange, while others escaped into nearby forests with gunshot wounds. Ten AK-47 rifles were recovered at the scenes—firearms that had been traced to cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, cattle rustling, and gunrunning.

Police say follow-up operations are already in motion to hunt down the fleeing suspects, many of whom have been linked to recent attacks on vulnerable communities across the affected regions.

Reiterating the Force’s unwavering determination to dismantle criminal networks, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, assured the public of continued vigilance.

“The Nigeria Police Force will continue to sustain and intensify intelligence-led operations to dismantle all criminal enterprises,” the IGP said.

He further pledged that the Force would remain firm in its constitutional responsibility to safeguard lives and property nationwide.

The Police are urging members of the public to support ongoing efforts by providing timely and actionable intelligence. Citizens are advised to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police formation or through official communication channels.