The Nigeria Police Force has announced the arrest of at least 50 suspects and the recovery of a significant cache of weapons and other exhibits during coordinated operations targeting criminal hideouts across the country.

Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, disclosed this on April 13, 2026, during a press briefing at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) Headquarters in Guzape, Abuja.

He explained that the operations form part of ongoing efforts to dismantle kidnapping rings, illegal arms dealers, and other organised criminal groups nationwide.

According to him, between January and April 2026, operatives of the FID-IRT conducted several intelligence-led missions, leading to arrests linked to kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, and other violent offences.

“In total, seven major cases were handled, resulting in 50 arrests and the recovery of 17 rifles, 111 rounds of live ammunition, 17 cartridges, as well as magazines, communication gadgets, vehicles, and other items,” he stated.

Among the cases cited was the arrest of a suspect, Musa Jibrin, for unlawful possession of firearms. An FNC rifle and a magazine were recovered, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend an accomplice who remains at large.

In Benue State, four suspected armed robbers were apprehended for allegedly setting up fake police checkpoints to rob unsuspecting victims. Recovered items included locally made firearms and a Police Mobile Force uniform used as a disguise.

Similarly, in Abuja, four suspects were arrested along the Dei-Dei/Kubwa Expressway for alleged involvement in abduction, “one-chance” robbery, and extortion. Police recovered a vehicle, mobile phones, and cash believed to be proceeds of crime.

In Taraba State, three suspects were arrested in connection with the killing of three police officers in Donga Local Government Area, with investigations linking them to other violent incidents in the area.

A major breakthrough was also recorded with the arrest of 33 suspects tied to terrorism, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and arms trafficking across Kwara State and Kogi State. The operation followed the 2025 attack on a church in Eruku, Kwara State, with security operatives recovering AK-47 rifles, magazines, an anti-aircraft launcher, and communication devices.

Additional arrests included a suspect in Benue State found with an illegal AK-47 rifle, as well as another in Abuja linked to car theft using a fabricated master key.

The police spokesperson noted that investigations are ongoing, with efforts intensified to track down fleeing suspects and recover more weapons.

He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to enhancing its investigative capabilities and working closely with other security agencies to tackle crime.

“The Force remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians,” he added.