Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
MINNA, Nigeria — The Niger State Police Command has announced a significant breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to curb crime in the north‑central region of Nigeria, with the arrest of a 16‑year‑old suspect in a drug‑related case and the apprehension of a separate gang linked to kidnapping and armed robbery, police sources confirmed. The operations — conducted across different parts of the state — highlight intensified policing aimed at confronting youth drug abuse and organised criminal activity amid rising security concerns.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Wasiu Abiodun, the command said the juvenile suspect was detained along with three other individuals in connection with alleged drug offences. The arrests were made in distinct operations targeting criminal networks and individuals believed to be contributing to drug distribution, kidnapping and armed robbery within the state.
While details of the 16‑year‑old suspect’s alleged involvement in drug offences have not been fully disclosed by police, authorities said the arrest underscores growing concern over youth engagement in narcotics distribution and abuse in the region. The suspect will be processed through appropriate legal and juvenile justice channels as the investigation proceeds.
In a parallel initiative, the Niger State Police Command also apprehended three adults allegedly linked to kidnapping and armed robbery, following intelligence‑led operations in parts of the state where violent crime and abductions have been persistent challenges for communities. These suspects are currently in police custody as detectives continue to build a case against them, including tracing links to broader criminal networks and potential accomplices.
According to Superintendent Abiodun’s briefing, the arrests form part of a coordinated strategy by the police to disrupt criminal enterprises that have destabilised sections of the state. “Our officers are committed to protecting lives and property by acting decisively on credible intelligence,” he said, emphasising that these operations are part of sustained efforts to reduce drug trafficking and pre‑empt violent crime.
Niger State, like many parts of northern Nigeria, has grappled with complex security challenges in recent years, including armed banditry, kidnapping for ransom and organised robbery. Local security sources and community leaders have repeatedly called for enhanced policing and collaboration with residents to stem the tide of violence and illicit activity.
Kidnapping and armed robbery incidents have periodically forced residents in rural and urban communities to adopt heightened security measures. For example, reports in late 2025 documented attacks by armed bandits that resulted in fatalities and abductions in remote areas of the state, contributing to an atmosphere of fear and displacement.
Police officials say that cooperation from the public — including timely reporting of suspicious activities and sharing of actionable information — has been crucial in facilitating arrests like those announced this week. “We call on all citizens to support law enforcement by providing credible intelligence that can help us prevent crimes before they occur,” Superintendent Abiodun added.
The Niger State Police Command’s announcement comes against the backdrop of nationwide efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to enhance internal security and disrupt criminal networks. Recent nationwide crime‑fighting statistics show that the force has ramped up operations to tackle offences ranging from kidnapping and armed robbery to cultism and drug trafficking, resulting in numerous arrests and the recovery of illegal weapons across multiple states.
Civil society and human rights advocates welcomed the latest arrests but stressed the need for sustained action that goes beyond high‑profile arrests. They argue that investment in community policing, youth education and employment opportunities is essential to address the root causes of crime, particularly among vulnerable populations such as adolescents who may be drawn into drug distribution or gang activity.
Family members and community leaders in affected areas have also called on authorities to ensure that those arrested are treated fairly through the justice system, noting that tackling crime must be balanced with respect for legal rights and due process.
As investigations continue, the Niger State Police Command has assured the public that the suspects will face prosecution, and that additional arrests are expected as part of expanded efforts to dismantle criminal syndicates operating in the state.
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