Nigeria Police Arrest 1,198 Suspects in Anti-Crime Drive

Anti-crime operations across Nigeria between June 9 and June 21, 2026, resulted in the apprehension of 1,198 suspects for diverse offenses, according to Inspector General of Police Olatunji Disu. The operations yielded significant recoveries, including 166 rescued kidnap victims, 166 assorted firearms, 1,475 rounds of ammunition, and 47 stolen vehicles. These arrests covered various crimes, with 151 suspects detained for murder, 117 for armed robbery, 151 for kidnapping, and 104 for cult-related activities. Additionally, 169 individuals were arrested for unlawful possession of firearms.

The successful rescue of abducted students and teachers in Oyo State was highlighted as a prime example of effective joint security operations. IG Disu credited this success to close collaboration among the Nigeria Police Force, Armed Forces, other security agencies, and public cooperation. He urged senior officers not to relax operational standards or become complacent due to recent breakthroughs, stressing that achievements should fuel further improvements.

Addressing the evolving security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, and cybercrime, IG Disu mandated Assistant Inspectors-General and Commissioners of Police to adopt dynamic, threat-informed strategies rather than routine deployments. He emphasized that performance would be evaluated based on security outcomes, not operation frequency, and directed commands to conduct post-operation reviews for tactical refinement. Citizens were encouraged to maintain active partnerships by sharing actionable information, as lasting security depends on community collaboration.