Three suspected bandits have been neutralised by team of operatives of the Sokoto State Police Command VCRU in a professionally fierce gun duel engagement, recovering weapon and ammunition, which degraded the criminal capabilities in Bodinga LGA and its environs.
The breakthrough confirmed by the command’s PPRO, DSP Ahmed Rufa’i following a distress call said the VCRU in a decisive reaction, repelled an armed bandit attack on Bodinga Village, in Bodinga Local Government Area, late Wednesday night.
According to the command image maker, “A large number of armed bandits, wielding sophisticated weapons, were attacking the village and the unit swiftly mobilized to the scene to engage the hoodlums in a fierce gun duel that lasted for some time.”
Rufa’i explained that the superior firepower and tactical advantage of the security forces overwhelmed the bandits, forcing them to retreat into the nearby forest with gunshot wounds.
He said after thorough combing of the bushes and the immediate vicinity, operatives discover three neutralized bandit and recovered One (1) AK47 rifle
· One (1) magazine containing twenty-five (25) rounds of live ammunition.
“No civilian or security force casualties were recorded in the operation”, Rafa’i said as he disclosed that a confidence-building patrol was ongoing in the area to ensure the safety of residents and to prevent further threats.
Meanwhile the command said all neighboring divisions had been placed on high alert and directed to be on the lookout for any injured hoodlums fleeing the scene as CP Hayatu Hassan Shaffa pleaded with the public, especially residents of Bodinga LGA and surrounding communities, to report any suspicious persons or individuals with gunshot wounds to the nearest security post.
The Kano Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arrested one Ali Baffa, an Inspector 1 with Aviation Security, AVSEC, and his accomplices, Aushabu Nasidi and Mukhtar Muhammad Dan Zaria at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, for alleged involvement in bulk cash and mineral resources smuggling.
The suspects were intercepted on Friday, June 11, 2026 during a routine surveillance operation by the Land and Property Fraud Section of the Kano Zonal Directorate, following a directive by the Executive Chairman that all Directorates intensify efforts to tackle smuggling of mineral resources and bulk cash at international airports.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Ali Baffa allegedly concealed 22.2 kilograms of unprocessed gold bars estimated at over N4,400,000,000 (Four Billion, Four Hundred Million Naira) in his trousers, with the intent to bypass security checks and hand over the precious minerals to overseas-bound passengers for illegal export out of Nigeria.
Further investigation led to the arrest of Aushabu Nasidi, who allegedly supplied the gold bars to Baffa. Upon arrest, Nasidi was found in possession of various foreign currencies, including: 3,000 Saudi Riyals, 40,000 Turkish Lira, 199.75 Kuwaiti Dinar, 20,700 Philippine Peso, 80 Australian Dollars, 310 Chinese Renminbi, 4,000 Algerian Dinar, 40 Hong Kong Dollars, 26,000 Hungarian Forint, and 1,000 Sudanese Dinar.
The investigation also led to the arrest of one Mukhtar Muhammad Dan Zaria who allegedly gave the gold bars to Nasidi. While being interviewed , DanZaria revealed to the Commission that he had smuggled an estimated 40.2 kilograms of gold from June 1 to June 11, 2026 using the same modus operandi.
All the suspects are currently in EFCC custody. They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, arraigned a social media influencer, Okoro Blessing Nkiruka,( a.k.a Blessing CEO) for alleged N13,000,000 (Thirteen Million Naira) Cancer fraud before Justice Yelim Bogoro of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The EFCC filed a fresh six-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and retaining the proceeds to the tune of N13,000,000 against her, following the receipt of several petitions from individuals and groups, including the Nigeria Cancer Society.
The petitioners allegedly made donations to the defendant after her social media posts claiming that she was battling Stage 4 breast cancer and seeking financial support for treatment.
She was, however, later discovered to have allegedly falsified the document she presented to members of the public.
One of the counts reads:
“That you, OKORO BLESSING NKIRUKA (A.K.A. BLESSING CEO), female, adult, sometime in 2026 in Lagos State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did obtain the total sum of N13,000,000 (Thirteen Million Naira) from unsuspecting citizens under the false pretence of being diagnosed with a terminal illness, to wit: left breast lump and invasive ductal carcinoma with lobular feature, which representation you knew to be false, and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.”
Another count reads: “ That you, OKORO BLESSING NKIRUKA (A.K.A BLESSING CEO) (female), adult, sometime in 2026 in Lagos State within the Jurisdiction of this honourable court, knowingly forged a medical report titled “Histopathology/Cytopathology Report”, purported to have emanated from Xinus Medical Diagnostics knowing same to be false with intent to gain advantage for yourself from unsuspecting citizens and you, thereby committed and offence contrary to and punishable under section 1(2) (c) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, CAP M17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.”
The defendant pleaded “not guilty” to the charges when they were read to her.
Following her plea, the prosecution counsel H. U. KofarNaisa, asked the court for a trial date and prayed that the defendant be remanded in a correctional centre.
Responding, counsel to the defendant, Stanley Ofoegbu, prayed the court for a short adjournment to enable him file a bail application on behalf of the defendant.
Justice Bogoro, consequently, adjourned the matter till September 24, 2026, for the commencement of trial and ordered that the defendant be remanded in a Correctional centre.
The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, arraigned one Fidelix Samuel Ebuka before Justice Yellim Bogoro of the Federal High Court in Lagos over an alleged money laundering offence.
Ebuka was arraigned on a one-count charge bordering on the retention of proceeds of unlawful activities amounting to N90,989,517 (Ninety Million, Nine Hundred and Eighty-Nine Thousand, Five Hundred and Seventeen Naira), contrary to the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The charge reads: “That you, Fidelix Samuel Ebuka, on or about April 15, 2026, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, directly retained N90,989,517 (Ninety Million, Nine Hundred and Eighty-Nine Thousand, Five Hundred and Seventeen Naira) in your Union Bank account number 0069938215, which proceeds you reasonably ought to have known formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) and punishable under Section 18(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.”
When the charge was read to him, the defendant pleaded not guilty.
Following the plea, prosecution counsel, H.U. Kofarnaisa, requested a trial date and urged the court to remand the defendant in a correctional facility pending trial.
Counsel to the defendant, Bimbo Ogunlaja, subsequently sought an adjournment to enable the defence to move its bail application.
Justice Bogoro thereafter adjourned the matter until June 29, 2026, for the hearing of the bail application and commencement of trial.
The court also ordered that the defendant be remanded in a Correctional facility pending the determination of his bail application.
2026.6.11 Multiple Adjournments Keep Abiola Adams-Odutayo on Trial 15 Months After Her Car Hit, Killed Bumpa Co-Founder
Fifteen months and seven days after Adetunji Opayele, co-founder and Chief Technical Officer of Bumpa, was killed in a road crash in Victoria Island, Lagos, the trial of Abiola Adams-Odutayo, the woman accused of causing his death, drags on.
The trial was adjourned, once again, until July 14, when it came up on Wednesday before Magistrate Owumi sitting at the Magistrates’ Court, Tinubu, Lagos Island.
A family member told FIJ on Thursday morning that the defence continued its cross-examination of the first prosecution witness before concluding its questioning. The prosecution subsequently re-examined the witness, after which the court fixed a new date for continuation of the trial.
“Mrs O. S. Okwuobi appeared for the Prosecution, while Mr Olajide S. Onasanya, Alex Ikumawoyi and Oluwaseun Akintunde appeared for the Defendant. Princess Omosuyi and Tejiri Omotegbona held a watching brief for the nominal complainant. Consequently, the matter was adjourned to July 14, 2026, for continuation of the trial,” the source disclosed.
The adjournment adds to a long list of delays that have characterised the case since Adams-Odutayo was first arraigned on March 12, 2025, eight days after the crash that claimed Opayele’s life.
FIJ has monitored the matter closely. After the defendant was granted bail and the case was adjourned in March 2025, subsequent sittings were delayed while parties awaited legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the reassignment of the case to a new prosecutor, the absence of the Investigating Police Officer (IPO) on more than one occasion and, at one point, a public holiday that prevented the court from sitting.
In December, the matter was adjourned until February 25, after the court was informed that the prosecutor was bereaved and sought a further date for the continuation of the trial.
When February came, the matter was adjourned again for April 2 for continuation of the trial and further cross-examination of the first prosecution witness.
The case was again adjourned during the April sitting, this time until June 10, after heavy rainfall affected court proceedings.
“This is the third time that the cross-examination is dragging. The matter came up on April 2 at the Magistrates’ Court, Tinubu, Lagos Island, for continuation of the trial. However, due to a heavy downpour that impaired the flow of the proceedings, the court suggested counsel pick a clear date for the matter,” a source had told FIJ in April.
The prolonged proceeding means that more than 15 months after Opayele’s death, the case has yet to reach a conclusion. Opayele died on March 4, 2025, after Adams-Odutayo’s vehicle collided with his power bike on an expressway in Victoria Island.
The incident triggered public outrage and calls from his family and friends, and Nigerians for a thorough investigation and prosecution. With the latest adjournment, the case is now scheduled to resume on July 14.
The Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday, June 8, 2026, arraigned the duo of Olivia Dike and Azeez Muniru Siyanbola for an alleged N560,000,000,00( Five Hundred and Sixty Million Naira ) theft before Justice R.O. Oshodi of the Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
The defendants were arraigned alongside a company, Eniafelamo Global Seven Nigeria Limited, on a three-count charge bordering on stealing to the tune of N560m.
One of the counts read: “That you, Olivia Dike, Azeez Muniru Siyanbola, Eniafelamo Global Seven Nigeria Limited and one Taoheed Lekan Abdrahman (at large), between July, 2024 and February, 2025 at Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, dishonestly stole and converted to your use the cumulative sum of N560, 000,000.00 (Five Hundred and Sixty Million Naira only), property of Peachland West Africa Limited and lyke Stephen Okpaji, thereby committing a crime, Stealing, contrary to Sections 278(1) (b) and 285(9) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.”
The defendants pleaded “not guilty” to the charges when they were read to them.
In view of this, prosecution counsel, Nnaemeka Omewa, asked the court for a trial date and also prayed for the remand of the defendants in a Correctional centre.
Justice Oshodi adjourned the case until July 10, 2026, for the hearing of the bail application and the commencement of trial.
The judge also ordered that the first defendant be remanded in a female custodial centre and the second defendant in a maximum security Correctional facility.x1200
A major blow has been dealt on the network of illicit drug dealers and traffickers across the country leading to the arrest of key suspects, amongst them, four notorious female dealers, and a 75 years old grandpa.
It was gathered that the notorious female dealers were apprehended in Imo and Edo States during different operations.
The Director, Media & Advocacy of NDLEA Femi Babafemi who confirmed the arrest in a statement on Sunday June 7, 2026, said that one of the suspects identified as Chioma Okeke, 32, was nabbed in Umuloko, Orlu, Imo state, while Chioma Igba, 24, Precious Ozomah, 22, and Anita, 21, were apprehended at Uyosa and along Agbor road, Benin city respectively.
His words, ” In Imo state, NDLEA officers successfully raided a known drug enclave at Umulolo, Orlu. The raid resulted in the arrest of a notorious female dealer, 32-year-old Chioma Okeke, and the recovery of 8 kilograms of skunk.
“Meanwhile, in Edo state, an intense sweep of notorious drug hotspots within Benin City by NDLEA operatives on Tuesday, 2nd June 2026, yielded the arrest of four key traffickers, including three females.
“At Uyosa, Benin City, two female suspects, Chioma Igba (24) and Precious Ozomah (22), were nabbed with a cocktail of illicit substances including 176 grams of skunk, 65 grams of Loud, and 5 grams of Methamphetamine. Along Agbor road in Benin City, another female suspect, 21-year-old Anita Abraham, was apprehended with 95 grams of Scottish Loud and 329 grams of regular Loud.
Giving details of other breakthroughs recorded by the agency, Babafemi informed that a major blow was dealt to opioid trafficking networks in Taraba state on Saturday 6th June 2026 following credible intelligence which led to the interception of a truck conveying building materials from Onitsha, Anambra state to Jalingo.
” A thorough search of the vehicle by NDLEA operatives at the Nukkai Timber Shade, Jalingo, led to the discovery of a massive drug stash concealed beneath the cargo, while a 22-year-old suspect, Buhari Abdullahi, was promptly arrested.
“Recovered from the truck include: 320,840 capsules of tramadol; 600 ampoules of pentazocine injection; 4,500 pills of rohypnol; and 299 bottles of codeine-based cough syrup.”, he disclosed.
Demonstrating that age is no barrier to the enforcement of the law, Babafemi stated that NDLEA operatives in Ebonyi State tracked down and arrested a 75-year-old grandpa, Okebe Samuel, at Okposi.
He added that the septuagenarian was found in possession of 300 grams of skunk, which he sells in retail sachets to the youth in his community.
According to the NDLEA spokesperson, “At Upper Mission, Benin City, a male suspect, Henry Okey (43), was arrested with a diverse cache of psychotropic substances consisting of Loud, Colorado, Swinol, and Methamphetamine.
“A swift operation by operatives in Kano State on Thursday, 4th June 2026, led to the arrest of a 19-year-old suspect, Saifullahi Lawan at the Kafi area of Madobi, with 40 blocks of skunk weighing a total of 38 kilograms.
“In a related development, operatives in Gombe State on Monday, 1st June intercepted 28-year-old Ugwu Sabastine Ifebuchi near the Dantiti Plaza in the Tumfure area of Gombe. The suspect was caught with 15,000 capsules of tramadol.
“The War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) social advocacy activities by NDLEA Commands and formations equally continued across the country in the past week.
“Some of them include: WADA sensitization lecture delivered to students and staff of Holiness Foundation Primary School, Saki, Oyo state; Dorras High School, Ibeju Lekki, Lagos; Ado Girls Secondary School, Onitsha, Anambra; and Army Day Secondary School, Kano state; among others.”
Reacting to the string of successful operations, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) commended the officers, men and women of the Taraba, Ebonyi, Imo, Edo, Kano, and Gombe commands for their resilience and vigilance.
He also praised their counterparts in all the commands across the country for pursuing a fair balance between their drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.
He re-emphasized that the agency remains fully committed to dismantling drug supply chains and will continue to target traffickers regardless of age, gender, or concealment methods.
After spending about 40 days in captivity, three kidnapped victims were rescued by the Kaduna State Police Command, while five suspected informants linked to a kidnapping syndicate were also arrested.
Command’s spokesman, DSP Mansir Hassan in a statement issued on Friday in Kaduna, explained that a joint security team led by personnel from Fushin Kada, in collaboration with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Hunkuyi carried out the operation.
He also explained that intelligence gathering, strategic surveillance, and coordinated security efforts that led operatives to a suspected bandits’ hideout led to the success of the operation.
The statement explained that upon sighting the advancing security personnel, the bandits fled the area, abandoning the victims who were subsequently rescued unharmed by the command’s operatives.
Ekechikwu Omale, Ummi Salisu of Kudan Local Government Area of Kaduna State, and Pastor Daniel Tanko Bawa of Tufa Village in Niger State were the kidnapped victims rescued from the bandits.
Hassan said, “The victims were taken to the police clinic for medical examination and treatment before being reunited with their families.”
During the course of the investigation, he said that five suspected informants were apprehended, saying that preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly provided information and logistical support to the kidnappers on how to carry out their evil activities.
The spokesman said that the suspects confessed to their involvement in the crime during interrogation.
The Kaduna state Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, hailed the professionalism, dedication, and collaboration exbited by the security agencies that led to the successful operation.
He assured of the command’s commitment to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state, urging residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible information that will enhance official assignments.
The Commissioner of Police also assured the command’s continued determination towards ensuring community cooperation that is critical in the fight against criminality.
He said that investigations were ongoing to apprehend other members of the criminal network and ensure that all those involved were brought to book to ensure justice is strictly adhered to.
2026.6.3 Aiyedatiwa Welcomes Death Sentences For Owo Church Massacre Convicts
Ondo State governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has welcomed the conviction and death sentences handed to four men linked to the June 5, 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, describing the judgment as a victory for justice.
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Wednesday convicted four of the five defendants standing trial over the deadly attack and sentenced them to death by hanging.
The convicted persons are Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, and Abdulhaleem Idris.
The court, however, discharged and acquitted the fifth defendant, Momoh Otuho Abubakar, of all charges.
Reacting in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the judiciary and security agencies for what he described as a diligent and professional handling of the case.
He said the ruling demonstrated that Nigeria’s justice system is capable of holding perpetrators of violent crimes accountable, regardless of how long cases take to conclude.
“This judgment sends a clear message that those who take innocent lives will face the full weight of the law, no matter how long it takes,” the governor said.
Aiyedatiwa also praised the resilience of residents of Owo and members of the Catholic community, who endured the aftermath of the attack that shocked the nation.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening security in Ondo State through improved intelligence gathering and closer collaboration with security agencies.
While acknowledging that the verdict cannot erase the pain suffered by victims’ families, the governor said the judgment offers some measure of closure and renewed hope for justice.
The June 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church remains one of the deadliest assaults on a place of worship in Nigeria, leaving dozens dead and many others injured.
2026.5.16 Ndume Confirms Abduction Of 42 Students From Borno Schools
Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South) on Saturday, confirmed that no fewer than 42 students including children have been abducted when armed members of Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists invaded Primary and Junior Government Day Secondary School (GDSS) Mussa, in Askira -Uba Local Government Area of the state on Friday.
This is as he appealed to the security agencies, especially the troops of the Joint Task Force North East ‘Operation HADIN KAI’ to intensify efforts in rescuing the victims.
He said, the traumatized incident which have forced many parents and guardians into hopelessness is barbaric and disheartening.
Ndume whose constituency have remained under constant attacks and destructions in recent times, expecially the latest Thursday attacks on some Chibok communities of Bambatsu and Ngadarma, where several people including the Elderly were killed, explained that, the Mussa Schools abduction is more terrific because, the incident happened at a time when poor and resilient students were engaged in their early morning class lessons.
The Senator stated this on Saturday in a press statement he personally signed and issued to Journalists in Maiduguri.
He said, based on the information at his disposal, which he got from the schools authorities (Principal and Head Teacher) indicated that, “four (4) students were abducted from the GDSS (two male and two female), 28 pupils were abducted from the primary section, while 10 children were abducted from their various residential houses, making total of 42 persons”.
Ndume, former Chairman Senate Committee on Army however reiterated his appeal to the security agencies, especially the Nigerian Army to intensify efforts in rescuing the innocent victims pursuing their legitimate education.
He also consoled with the families of those who lost their lives in Chibok communities invasion and other attacks in Southern Borno Senatorial District, even as he prayed Allah (God) to grant Aljannatul Firdaus to the Souls of the victims and grant quick recovery to the injured ones.
2026.5.15 Nursing mother arrested with 302 rounds of live ammunition jailed for 20 years
A federal high court in Abuja has sentenced Halima Haliru Umar, a nursing mother, to 20 years’ imprisonment for terrorism-related offences after she pleaded guilty to possessing 302 rounds of AK-47 ammunition and attempting to support acts of terrorism.
Halima was convicted on two counts out of a four-count charge filed against her by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Delivering judgement on Friday, Hauwa Yilwa, the presiding judge, held that the defendant admitted to the offences by pleading guilty during her arraignment on May 11.
“The defendant, having admitted the facts of the offence as presented by the prosecution, the court is satisfied,” the judge said.
“She is accordingly convicted on counts three and four.”
The judge sentenced Halima to 20 years’ imprisonment on count three and a one-year jail term on count four.
The judge adjourned the matter until July 9 for trial on the remaining two counts, to which the defendant pleaded not guilty.
Earlier, Hamza Dantani, counsel to the defendant, urged the court to temper justice with mercy, describing Halima as a remorseful first-time offender.
Dantani also told the court that the convict is a nursing mother whose one-year-old child was arrested alongside her.
Caliatus Eze, counsel to the DSS, informed the court that the prosecution had no previous conviction record against the defendant.
According to the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/450/2025, Halima, from Unguwan Boka in Faskari LGA of Katsina state, was accused of attempting to support terrorism by transporting 302 rounds of AK-47 ammunition between Barkin Ladi and Jos north LGAs of Plateau state.
While reviewing the facts of the case, Fahad Tahir, a DSS operative, told the court that Halima was arrested in Plateau state on July 7, 2025, and later transferred to the DSS headquarters in Abuja on August 11, 2025, for further investigation.
Tahir said the defendant confessed that a man identified as Sani instructed her to travel to Zaria in Kaduna state before proceeding to Jos, where she allegedly received a bag containing the ammunition.
“We received the defendant with the following items: 302 live rounds of ammunition; her voluntary confessional statement, written in Hausa and English; the statement of the arresting officer; the compact disc containing the audio-visual recording of her interview session, investigation report from the Plateau state command and the sum of N57,100,” Tahir told the court while giving evidence.
“After receiving the defendant and the items mentioned, we proceeded to conduct further investigation into the case by examining the items earlier mentioned and also interviewed the defendant, which was audio/visually recorded and in the presence of an official of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria.
“In the course of the interview, she narrated how, on the 6th of July, 2025, one Sani instructed her to go to Zaria in Kaduna state to help him collect a message from someone.
“She said Sani gave her the sum of N50,000 for her travel expenses.
“She stated that, upon her arrival in Zaria, Sani further instructed her to proceed to Jos in Plateau state.
“On getting to Jos, Sani directed her to one Alhaji, who later handed over a waste bag containing 302 live ammunitions.
“She stated that on her way back to Jos, she was arrested while being in possession of the 302 rounds of live ammunition.
“She volunteered her statement in the Hausa language, and it was interpreted by my colleague into the English language since she is illiterate in the English language.
“At the conclusion of our investigation, we wrote our investigation report and submitted it to the director.”
The Lagos Waste Management Authority has arrested three individuals for allegedly engaging in illegal waste disposal during an overnight enforcement operation carried out in the Ketu-Alapere area of Lagos State.
The development was disclosed in a statement released on Sunday by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, through his verified X handle.
According to the statement, the operation was conducted by the LAWMA Waste Infractions Surveillance and Investigation Team between May 8 and May 9, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts by the state government to curb indiscriminate waste dumping across Lagos.
The commissioner stated that the suspects were apprehended while illegally disposing of refuse at unauthorised locations within the Ketu-Alapere axis.
“As part of ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal waste dumping within the state, the LAWMA Waste Infractions Surveillance and Investigation Team conducted an overnight surveillance operation from May 8 to 9, 2026, in the Ketu Alapere axis,” the statement read.
Wahab added that the suspects were traced to their residences during investigations aimed at identifying the reasons behind their actions and preventing further environmental violations.
According to him, findings from the investigation revealed that the affected properties lacked proper waste storage facilities and had not been registered with approved Private Sector Participant operators responsible for waste collection.
He further disclosed that all affected properties had been documented and forwarded to the LAWMA legal department for necessary legal action.
The commissioner also stated that blackspots identified during the operation were cleared as part of efforts to maintain environmental cleanliness within the area. x1200
Troops of the Nigerian Army have uncovered and dismantled two illegal arms manufacturing factories in Vom, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, arresting five suspects and recovering a cache of locally fabricated weapons and industrial equipment.
The operation, carried out on Thursday, was executed by troops of the Quick Response Force under Operation Enduring Peace as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt the supply of illicit firearms within the joint operations area.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, the raid followed “highly intensified, comprehensive human intelligence gathering and strategic surveillance.”
The statement noted that troops stormed the two illegal weapon production sites in Vom during what it described as a “precision operation,” where the suspects were allegedly caught in the act of fabricating weapons.
Items recovered during the operation included nine fabricated AK-47 rifles, one locally made pistol, four empty AK-47 magazines, seven skeletal AK-47 rifles and 10 rifle butts.
Troops also recovered 36 empty shells of 7.62mm special ammunition, four revolver engines, 14 recoiling springs, six hand drilling machines, nine filing machines, four welding machines, alongside assorted industrial equipment allegedly used in weapon fabrication.
“The operation was part of the ongoing efforts by Operation ENDURING PEACE aimed at cutting off the supply chain of illicit firearms and safeguarding law-abiding citizens within its Joint Operations Area,” the statement read.
The military said the suspects and all recovered exhibits are currently in custody for further investigation and exploitation.
It further disclosed that troops are continuing covert follow-up operations to “mop up the remnants of arms and ammunition already in circulation.”
Operation Enduring Peace also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information on suspicious activities linked to criminal elements.
Residents of Ubiaja in Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State have applauded the demolition of a building allegedly used as a hideout for kidnapping and drug-related activities by the Edo State Special Security Squad.
The building, reportedly linked to suspected kidnap kingpin, Jerry Okoyomo, was pulled down amid jubilation by residents who described the action as a major breakthrough in the fight against insecurity in the community.
Chairman of the Special Security Squad, Noah Paddy Idemudia, said the property was uncovered during investigations into a recent kidnapping incident in Irrua which led to the arrest of nine suspected kidnappers.
“This house was identified during investigations into the recent kidnapping incident in Irrua which led to the arrest of nine suspected kidnappers,” he said.
Idemudia disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed that the building served as an operational base for criminal activities, including kidnapping and illicit drug dealings.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo to combating criminality across the state.
“The Edo State Government under Governor Monday Okpebholo will not relent in fishing out criminals and destroying all structures linked to criminal activities across the state,” he stated.
He warned individuals involved in criminal activities to desist or be prepared to face the full weight of the law.
The security squad chairman also urged landlords and property owners to properly screen prospective tenants before leasing out their properties.
“We also advise landlords to properly profile individuals before renting out their houses. Some of these criminals hide under false identities to carry out illegal activities,” he added.
Residents who witnessed the demolition commended the state government for taking decisive action against insecurity, noting that the building had long been suspected to be a criminal hideout.
“We are very happy today. This house has been a hideout for criminals for a long time and people have been living in fear,” a resident said.
Another resident added: “We thank Governor Monday Okpebholo for taking this bold action. This demolition has brought relief to the community.”
Earlier, security operatives at the Ubiaja Police Station paraded suspects arrested in connection with the case.
One of the suspects, Musa Mohammadu, who spoke through an interpreter, claimed he was brought from northern Nigeria under the guise of securing employment in cattle rearing.
“I was brought here from the North to rear cattle, but when I got here, I discovered there was no cattle work. I became uncomfortable because of the suspicious activities going on around the place and I told them I wanted to return before the police arrested us,” he said.
However, the prime suspect, Jerry Okoyomo, denied involvement in kidnapping, insisting that he was only engaged in the sale of hard drugs.
A victim allegedly kidnapped by the gang also recounted her experience in captivity, alleging that one of the suspects moved freely within the community while occasionally visiting the hideout to supervise operations and monitor victims.
The demolition is the latest move by the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo aimed at tackling criminal activities and restoring public confidence in the security of lives and property across Edo State.
Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT Police Command have arrested one Emmanuel Odiniya, father of former Big Brother Naija housemate, Ilebaye, over suspected domestic violence.
Recall that reality TV star cried out for help during an Instagram Livestream on Friday night.
A viral video clip captured moments where the father was brutally assaulting the celebrity, raising concerns amongst Nigerians.
Responding to the concerns, the Police Public Relations Officer of the FCT Command, SP Josephine Adeh, in a statement on Saturday said the lady was immediately rescued and taken to hospital after the alarm.
“At about 12:00 a.m., the FCT Police Command responded to a distress call from Royal Anchor Estate, Wuye, Abuja, reporting an ongoing physical assault on Ms. Ilebaye Odiniya Emmanuel by her father, Hon. Emmanuel Odiniya.
“Following the report, a patrol team from Wuye Division, supported by operatives of the Department of Operations, FCT Police Command, was immediately deployed to the scene. The Command’s Police Public Relations Officer was also present to monitor the operation.
“Upon arrival, officers discovered that the gate to the residence was locked. After several attempts, access was gained into the compound at about 2:30 a.m. Ms. Ilebaye Odiniya, who was found with visible bruises, was rescued alongside her brothers and rushed to NNPC Hospital, Abuja, where she received medical attention.
“Hon. Emmanuel Odiniya is currently in police custody, while a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident,” the police spokesperson said in a statement.
2026.5.9 Gunmen invade OOU, carts away phones, belongings
For the second time in less than two weeks, armed men have reportedly attacked hostels occupied by students of the College of Engineering, Olabisi Onabanjo University, OOU, at its Ibogun campus in Ogun State.
The latest incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Friday when about seven armed hoodlums invaded the student hostels, shooting sporadically before robbing occupants of their valuables, including mobile phones and a vehicle.
No fewer than 15 students were said to have been affected by the attack, which reportedly lasted for about two hours between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m.
The attackers were said to have escaped with a black Lexus ES 350 belonging to one of the students.
President of the Nigerian Universities Engineering Students Association at the institution, Oluwafemi Aderupatan, confirmed the incident on Friday.
He expressed concern over repeated attacks on students, blaming the situation on inadequate security presence around the campus community.
“The armed robbers, about seven of them, attacked students in their hostels in the early hours of Friday,” he said.
“They were shooting and threatening to kill the students. They robbed about 15 students of their phones and also went away with a black Lexus ES 350 belonging to one of the students.
“We actually called for police intervention and they came around after the robbers had left, but the deed had already been done.”
Aderupatan stated that the attacks persisted because security measures earlier promised by authorities had yet to be implemented.
“We are equally not happy that the police post and robust security architecture that the police, the school management and community leaders promised to put in place about two weeks ago when we had a similar armed robbery incident have not become a reality,” he added.
According to him, the criminals were taking advantage of the weak security arrangement in the area, stressing that a stronger security presence such as a functional police post or military formation would deter future attacks.
He appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun to intervene, saying students could no longer continue to live in fear.
Reacting to the incident, spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, Omolola Odutola, confirmed that investigations had commenced.
“I can however confirm that the matter is under investigation and the police are already acting on the information available,” she said.
“The Ogun State Police Command takes every security concern within the Ibogun campus environment seriously, and efforts are ongoing to ascertain the facts surrounding the report and take necessary action where required.”
About two weeks earlier, suspected gunmen reportedly invaded student hostels in the same area, assaulting some students and making away with phones, a vehicle and other valuables.
2026.5.9 Mob kills two in Bauchi as police arrest three suspects
The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested three suspects over the mob killing of two men in Bunga Hamlet, Dagu Ward of Warji Local Government Area of the state.
According to the command, the incident occurred on May 7, 2026, at about 11:50am after a distress call was received concerning a mob attack that resulted in the death of Kabiru Idris, 30, and Ibrahim Samaila Danliti, 40, both from Gabanga Village in Warji LGA.
The spokesperson of the Command, Nafiu Habib, in a statement issued on Saturday, said the victims were riding on a motorcycle when they were allegedly chased by a mob from Ningi LGA shouting, “thieves, thieves” before they were intercepted at Bunga Hamlet and severely beaten until they became unconscious.
Police operatives reportedly rushed the victims to the General Hospital, Warji, where they were later confirmed dead by a medical doctor.
The command disclosed that detectives, acting on intelligence arrested three suspects identified as Samaila Turawa of Gwada, Danbaba Haruna of Gwada, and Ubale Mai Kaji of Ningi for their alleged involvement in the incident.
According to the police, the suspects are currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department in Bauchi and are assisting investigators, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the mob.
Condemning the incident, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, described the act as barbaric and ordered a discreet investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killings.
He reiterated that no individual or group has the right to take the law into their hands by unlawfully taking another person’s life.
The command added that normalcy had been restored in the area, while patrols and community engagement had been intensified to prevent a recurrence.
The spokesperson stated that all those involved in the unlawful act would be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Two Nigerians have been arrested in Uganda over their alleged involvement in an international drug trafficking and document fraud network dismantled by security agencies in Kampala, the country’s capital.
The arrests followed an intelligence-led operation coordinated by Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs through the National Citizenship and Immigration Control, in collaboration with other security agencies.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Mundeyi Simon Peter, and shared via its X handle.
According to the ministry, the operation exposed a “sophisticated drug trafficking network operating internationally based in Kampala,” involving a Ugandan national and several foreign associates.
At the centre of the investigation is a Ugandan businessman, Mr Mugisha Keith King, who authorities said was linked to shell companies and multiple alleged criminal activities, including drug trafficking and identity fraud.
“In 2010, Mr Mugisha was arrested at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi with cocaine shipped from Brazil. He served a 12-year prison sentence in Kenya and remains an internationally wanted criminal,” the statement read.
The ministry further alleged that Mugisha operated under multiple identities.
“Mr Mugisha holds different passports alongside his Ugandan passport, including those from Seychelles, the Kingdom of Eswatini, Belgium, the United Kingdom and Brazil, as well as national IDs of Kenya and Nigeria. He also has a fake work ID masquerading as an employee of the President’s Office,” it added.
Authorities also accused him of impersonating government and military officials, including placing a signpost at his residence labelled “Ambassador’s Residence.”
The statement said Mugisha worked closely with Nigerian nationals, including a woman identified as his spouse.
“Mr Mugisha is alleged to be coordinating these illegal activities with a group of Nigerian nationals. Of particular concern is the discovery that his spouse, a Nigerian national, Ms Ikemefuna Winner Chekwubechukwu, fraudulently acquired a Ugandan National ID under the name Mugisha Winner Chekwubechukwu with the help of Mugisha.
“She is currently on the run in Brazil,” the ministry stated.
Authorities confirmed that two Nigerians—Ikemefuna Testimony Udo and Ikemefuna Annointing—are currently in custody in connection with the network.
“The Ministry also has in custody the following Nigerian associates linked to this racket: Ikemefuna Testimony Udo and Ikemefuna Annointing,” the statement added.
The ministry said further arrests are ongoing in collaboration with international security partners.
Security operatives recovered several items during searches of the suspect’s residence and business premises, including a gun, a pistol, live ammunition, multiple passports and identity cards, military uniforms, communication devices, and suspected forged official documents.
“The Ministry emphasises that Uganda maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards drug trafficking and the misuse of military hardware,” the statement said.
It urged members of the public to report suspected drug-related activities and impersonation of security personnel, adding that investigations, including immigration status reviews of foreign suspects, are ongoing.
Authorities also reaffirmed their commitment to working with international partners to track down other suspects still at large.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission , EFCC on May 5, 2026 arraigned one Andefiki Markus before Justice H.H. Kerrng of the Gombe State High Court sitting in Gombe , Gombe State.
Markus was arraigned on two- count charges bordering on obtaining under false pretence by the Gombe Zonal Directorate of the EFCC.
Count one of the charges reads:
That you Dr Andefiki Markus on or about the 27th day of June 2023 in Gombe , Gombe State within the jurisdiction of this honourable court , with intent to defraud did obtain monies the total sum of Twenty Million Naira ( N20,000,000) through your bank account number 0011125604 domiciled with Access Bank plc from Mr Skeptra Useni baka under the false pretence that the said sum were for investment into cattle fattening at Taraba State for profit in favour of the said Mr Skeptra Useni Baka which you knew to be false thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1)(c) and punishable under Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act , No.14 2006 .
He pleaded not guilty to the charges, prompting the prosecution counsel, Abubakar Aliyu to ask the court for a trial date and to remand the defendant in the Nigerian Correctional Service, but counsel to the defendant C.C. Ichecu informed the court of a pending formal motion for bail .
Justice Kereng, having listened to both prosecution and defence counsel, remanded the defendant in EFCC custody and adjourned the case to May 7, 2026 for hearing of bail application.
The Abuja Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arraigned one Oluwabusayo Ekundayo before Justice A.S. Adepoju of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court Gwagwalada, Abuja for issuance of dud cheque to the tune of N16, 650,000 (Sixteen Million, Six Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira only).
He is being prosecuted on a two-count charge.
Count one reads: “That you Oluwabusayo Ekundayo sometime in 2022 in Abuja, within the Judicial Division of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, being the CEO/Chairman of Orion Surgical and Satures, did obtain from one Clara Onwumere the sum of N4,650,000.00 (Four Million, Six Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira), by means of cheque which when presented within three months, would be dishonoured on the ground that no sufficient funds were standing to the credit of the account upon which the cheque was drawn and you thereby committed an offence contrary Section 1(1)(b) of Dishonoured Cheque (Offences) Act 2004 and punishable under section 1(1)(b)(i) of the same Act.”
Count two reads: “That you Oluwabusayo Ekundayo within the Judicial Division of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, being the CEO/Chairman of Orion Surgical and Satures, did obtain credit from one Clara Onwumere in the sum of N12,000,000.00 (Twelve Million Naira only) which when presented within three months, would be dishonoured on the ground that no sufficient funds were standing to the credit of the account upon which the cheque was drawn and you thereby committed an offence contrary Section 1(1) (b) and punishable under Section 1(1)(b) of Dishonoured Cheque (Offences) Act 2004 and punishable under section 1(1) (b) (i) of the same Act.”
He pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to him, prompting prosecution counsel, Joyce Audu to request a trial date.
Trial has since commenced in the matter.
No fewer than three persons have been killed following a clash between suspected rival cult groups in Agwan Jukun, a suburb of Makurdi in Benue State.
The violence, which residents said began on Sunday night and continued into the early hours of Monday, sparked widespread panic, forcing many people to flee their homes while commercial activities were abruptly halted.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the area at about 8 p.m., moving with apparent precision and targeting specific individuals.
“They arrived and went straight for certain people. It didn’t look random at all, they knew exactly who they were after,” a resident, who requested anonymity, said.
The killings were said to have occurred along Market Street and Wukari Street. Some residents believe the assailants may have relied on local informants to track their targets.
“The operation suggested they had insider information. It didn’t seem like they were from around here, but they clearly had help,” another source said.
As of Monday, tension remained high, especially around the market area near a mosque, with fears of further attacks lingering among residents.
“Many people have left the area, and shops are still closed. There’s a lot of fear,” another resident noted.
On Tuesday, some locals reported fresh concerns over a possible reprisal attack, claiming that groups of youths were seen openly carrying weapons in parts of the community.
Efforts to obtain a response from the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful, as she had yet to respond to inquiries or issue an update on the incident as of the time of filing this report.
2026.5.6 Police arrest, repatriate ‘Chinese fugitive over $245 million ponzi scheme’
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) says its operatives have arrested and repatriated Xu Qing, a “Chinese fugitive”, to China to face charges over an alleged Ponzi scheme involving large-scale illegal absorption of public deposits.
Anthony Placid, the force public relations officer, said in a statement on Wednesday that the arrest and repatriation were carried out through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Abuja.
Placid said the action followed a formal request from Chinese authorities, who declared the suspect wanted in Beijing over an alleged fraud valued at more than $245 million.
“Investigations revealed that the suspect fled China to Nigeria on 5th November 2024 in an attempt to evade arrest, following which a warrant was issued against him on 12th November 2025 by the Shinan Sub-Bureau of Qingdao Public Security,” the statement reads.
“Acting on intelligence and sustained surveillance operations, operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja successfully tracked and arrested the fugitive at a factory located in Olowotedo, Siun Village, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State on 24th April 2026, after which the suspect was repatriated to the People’s Republic of China on 28th April 2026 through bilateral police cooperation arrangements to face prosecution for the offences.”
Placid said Olatunji Disu, the inspector-general of police (IGP), reaffirmed the NPF’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation in tackling transnational organised crime.
He also advised Nigerian employers and businesses to carry out proper background checks, including through the police, before hiring or partnering with foreign nationals.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its commitment to combating transnational crime and ensuring that Nigeria does not serve as a safe haven for fugitives,” Placid said.
Joy Ezeugwu, a nurse at Uwani General Hospital in Enugu State, who shared a video of deteriorating conditions at the facility, has been arrested by the Nigerian police.
Joy was reportedly arrested by a team from Police Force Headquarters Annex, Enugu.
An education technologist, Alex Onyia, disclosed the development in a post on his X handle on Monday.
According to the post, the police officers were sent by the administrator of her former school at Ezzy College of Nursing, Ifeyinwa Peace Okwudu.
“Joy Ezeugwu has been arrested this morning by a team from Police Force Headquarters Annex, Enugu.
“They were sent by her former school’s (Ezzy College of Nursing) administrator Ifeyinwa Peace Okwudu.
“Students and staff oppression have now become a norm. We will dismantle it,” Onyia wrote on X.
DAILY POST recalls that the nurse was suspended in April after her viral video highlighted deteriorating conditions at the facility, including the absence of electricity and running water.
The video gained traction on social media and captured health workers expressing frustration over the challenging environment.
Workers in the video were visibly lamenting that the lack of basic amenities was affecting their ability to deliver adequate care, particularly during emergencies.
Following the release of the video, Okwudu, in a letter sighted by DAILY POST, demanded N10 million in damages from Joy Ezeugwu over an alleged violation of privacy rights.
In a formal letter issued by her legal counsel, Ikechukwu Davidmark Ene, the administrator claimed that the recording occurred during an internal staff meeting held at her office.
According to the letter, all attendees were instructed before the meeting to leave behind any mobile phones or recording devices.
Okwudu claimed that Joy was specifically asked if she had any such device and allegedly denied having one, claiming she left her phone at home.
The administrator alleged that Joy concealed a mobile phone in her bag and proceeded to secretly record conversations during the meeting without consent.
2026.5.4 DSS arraigns influencer over alleged attempt to incite soldiers
The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned Justice Mark Chidiebere, a social media influencer, over an alleged attempt to incite soldiers and breach of military social media policy.
Chidiebere, popularly known as “Justice Crack”, was arraigned before Joyce Abdulmalik, judge of a federal high court in Abuja on Monday.
He pleaded not guilty to a three-count charge bordering on cybercrime.
In the first count, the DSS alleged that Chidiebere circulated false information to the public through his X handle, @JusticeCrack, regarding inadequate feeding of soldiers, with intent to cause annoyance, ill-will and hatred among citizens.
The offence is said to be contrary to section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 (as amended).
In the second count, the prosecution alleged that the defendant published a viral video and statements about the Nigerian Army which generated widespread negative reactions and were likely to cause fear and breach of peace, contrary to section 59 of the Criminal Code Act.
The third count accused Chidiebere of attempting to commit a felony by publishing what the prosecution described as a derogatory video and statements about the Nigerian Army, an offence punishable under section 509 of the Criminal Code Act.
After the defendant’s plea, E. Orubo, prosecution counsel, prayed the court to order the defendant’s remand in DSS custody. He also asked for a fixed date for trial to commence.
Marshall Abubakar, counsel for the defendant, made an oral bail application, but the trial judge ordered him to file a formal bail application.
In her ruling, Abdulmalik ordered that the defendant be remanded in the custody of the DSS and adjourned until May 25 for the commencement of trial and hearing of bail application.
Chidiebere was arrested by the Nigerian army last week after he shared complaints by some soldiers about their feeding and welfare on social media.
In a statement on Saturday, Appolonia Anele, acting director of the army’s public relations, said: “…preliminary report reveals that the soldiers discussed a wide range of issues with Justice Chidiebere, who seemed to be inciting soldiers to create discontent within the system”.
“An example was a chat bothering on subversion which Chidiebere had with the soldiers,” the statement reads.
“It is important to state that a situation where civilians cultivate vulnerable personnel towards acts of subversion has far-reaching implications on discipline and national security.”
Anele said Chidiebere was arrested alongside the soldiers for investigation.
2026.3.19 So-Safe Corps Foils Cattle Rustling in Ogun
The Ogun State Community, Social Orientation and Safety Corps, So-Safe Corps, has foiled an attempted invasion by cattle rustlers at a ranch in Ijagun, a suburb of Ijebu-Ode.
A statement by the State Commander, Dr Soji Ganzallo, through the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mr Adegunwa Adegbuyi, said the Corps received a distress call from a resident of Ifesowapo Community, who reported a suspected cattle rustling incident.
The statement says the Ijebu Zonal Commander, DCC Yemi Odukoya, was immediately directed to mobilise a special squad to the scene, where operatives discovered that the rustlers had assaulted and injured the security guard on duty and fled with twenty cows.
The statement adds that the Corps launched a swift pursuit, forcing the suspects to abandon the cattle and flee, while the recovered herd was returned to the owner and the injured guard taken to hospital.
Dr Ganzallo said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and stressed the importance of collaboration between security agencies and residents in tackling crime, commending the community for providing prompt and useful information.
Operatives of the Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested three suspected illegal gold miners in Borno State.
They were arrested in Mallam Jakwa Town, Hawul Local Government Area of Borno State, following actionable intelligence on their illegal activities.
The suspects are: Umar Muhammad, Modu Bamai Umar and Sani Samaila.
Their suspected illegal mining activities are worsening insecurity and environmental degradation in the state.
Items found in their possession upon their arrest include a small gold measuring machine and mined gold.
They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
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2026.3.18 Court convicts 10 Filipinos of cocaine trafficking, fines them $6m
The federal high court in Lagos has convicted 10 Filipino sailors and their merchant vessel of trafficking 20 kilogrammes of cocaine at the Apapa seaport.
The sailors were arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in November 2025 at Apapa seaport.
The vessel, MV Nord Bosporus, with registration number 9760110, arrived in Nigeria from Santos in Brazil.
The anti-drug agency had disclosed that its officers discovered the “Class A drug” buried under the ship’s cargo on Sunday, November 16, 2025.
THE CASE
The NDLEA arraigned the sailors and the vessel on a four-count charge.
The defendants are Eugene Quinos Corpuz; Mark Joseph Jardiniano; Alexis Navidad Evarrola; Francis Gerard Niones Carpio; Franz Jude Mayran; Mahinay Junniel Lagura; Mario Ganiban Malvar; Hormachuelos Lordito Guivencan; Joshua Emmanuel Hufanda; and Edwin Baltazar Reyes.
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In a statement released on Wednesday, Femi Babafemi, NDLEA spokesperson, said the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges and entered a plea bargain agreement.
In his judgment, Ayokunle Faji, the trial judge, found the vessel guilty for an offence under section 25 of the NDLEA Act.
The judge ordered the vessel to pay the sum of N100,000 penalty for the offence and a restitution in the sum of N5.3 million to the federal government.
The judge convicted three principal officers of the vessel who are the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th defendants. They were asked to pay N100,000 each and a restitution of $100,000 each to the federal government.
After conviction, the judge ordered the 5th to 11th defendants to pay N100,000 each in addition to a restitution of $50,000 each.
According to the NDLEA, the total money to be paid to the federal government by the vessel and the 10 sailors is $6 million and N1.1million as restitution and penalty.
Reacting to the judgment, Mohammed Buba Marwa, NDLEA chairman, said the conviction of the vessel and its crew members is a “lesson to international drug cartels and their local collaborators that Nigeria’s territorial waters are no longer a playground for the illicit narcotics trade”.
“Let this judgment be an unambiguous signal to every shipping line, vessel owner, and sailor worldwide that if you turn your ships into floating warehouses for illicit drugs, you will not only lose your freedom but also your assets,” Marwa said.
“We have moved beyond mere seizures; we are now hitting the syndicates where it hurts most, their pockets and their operational assets.”
The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ikoyi, on Monday, March 16, 2026, arraigned an ex-convict, Oluokun Gabriel Adekola, for an alleged 12m theft before Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.
Adekola was arraigned on a one-count amended charge bordering on stealing to the tune of N12,000,000 (Twelve Million Naira).
The lone count charge reads:
“That you, OLUOKUN GABRIEL ADEKOLA, and other persons at large, sometime in 2025 in Lagos within the jurisdiction of this Honourable court, collaborated with others to conceal and disguise the genuine origin of N12,000,000 paid into your account by transferring and converting same to cash through Point of Sale (POS) agents, money which forms part of N3,091,441,849 stolen from accounts domiciled with FCMB through unauthorized access and fraudulent activities on their mobile banking applications.”
He pleaded “guilty” to the charge when it was read to him.
Following his plea, prosecution counsel, M. K. Bashir and E. S. Okongwu, asked the court for a date to review the facts of the case and sentence.
The prosecution also prayed that the defendant be remanded in a Correctional centre.
Justice Oshodi adjourned the matter till March 17, 2026 for the review of facts and sentence, and also ordered that the defendant be remanded in a correctional centre.
Adekola had earlier been convicted on July 23, 2020 by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State, and sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment for defrauding a Taiwanese of $22,300, following his prosecution by the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the EFCC on a six-count amended charge of obtaining money by false pretence.
The Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday arrested Kelvin Ebikeniye Dugo, a suspected gunrunner, at Ivara Esu estate in Odukpani LGA of Cross River state.
Sources told Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, that the arrest followed “credible intelligence” indicating that Dugo planned to purchase 832 rounds of live ammunition from Azenda Barnabas (alias Jagaban), another suspected gunrunner based in Aliade, Benue state.
“The operatives intercepted Dugo moments after he received the consignment, which was concealed in food items. Recovered [were] 832 rounds of ammunition and two empty AK-47 magazines,” Makama said.
“The DSS has intensified its pursuit of such criminals, launching sustained operations across the states of the Federation.
“This successful operation is one of many ongoing nationwide efforts, highlighting the DSS’ firm commitment to dismantling gun-running syndicates and curbing illegal arms proliferation.”
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2026.3.17 A timeline of attacks in Nigeria’s northeastern Borno state
LAGOS, Nigeria (AP) — At least 23 people were killed and more than 100 wounded in suspected suicide bombings Monday night that targeted Maiduguri city in northeastern Nigeria, police said Tuesday.
It was one of the deadliest attacks in the capital of the conflict-battered state of Borno in recent history.
Here is a timeline of major deadly attacks in Borno in the last five years:
Feb. 23, 2021
Suspected Boko Haram militants fired rocket-propelled grenades into densely populated areas of Maiduguri, including a university and a children’s playground, killing at least 10 people.
June 29, 2024
Female suicide bombers targeted a wedding, a funeral and a hospital in coordinated attacks in the town of Gwoza that killed at least 32 people and injured over 100. No group claimed responsibility for the attack, but the use of suicide bombers has been attributed to Boko Haram,
Jan. 26, 2025
A suicide bomber drove a vehicle with explosives into a convoy of Nigerian troops that were targeting Islamic State militants in the remote village of Malam-Fatori, killing himself and scores of soldiers.
June 20, 2025
A suicide bomber killed at least 10 people and injured several others in an explosion in a restaurant in the town of Konduga.
Sept. 5, 2025
Boko Haram killed over 60 people during a nighttime attack on Darul Jamal, a village that was home to residents who had recently returned from a camp for internally displaced persons.
Dec. 24, 2025
A bomb exploded during prayers at a mosque in Maiduguri, killing five people in what police described as a likely suicide attack.
Jan. 26, 2026
Suspected Boko Haram militants killed seven Nigerian soldiers and captured 13 others during an ambush on troops patrolling the Damasak area of Borno.
March 16, 2026
Multiple suicide bombings rocked Maiduguri, targeting a hospital and two markets, killing at least 23 people and injuring over 100.
No fewer than 23 persrons have been confirmed dead, while 108 others sustained varying degrees of injuries following the tripple suicide bomb attacks Monday evening at three locations in Maiddugiri, the Borno State capital .
Confirming the casualties on Tuesday to Journalists in a statement, the police public relations officer ( PPRO ) Nahum Kenneth Daso, said the tripple attacks which were carried out by suicide bombers around 7:24pm on Monday occurred at Maiduguri Monday Market, University of Maiddugiri Teaching Hospital ( UMTH ) gate and Post- Office flyover area all in Maiduguri.
The PPRO added that victims of the tripple suicide bomb attacks were promptly evacuated by emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), to medical facilities where they are currently receiving treatment.
He said,” Following the devastating suspected suicide IED explosions that occurred at about 1924HRS on 16th March, 2026, at Maiduguri Monday Market, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) gate, and Post Office Flyover area, Maiduguri, preliminary investigation reveals that the incidents were carried out by suspected suicide bombers.
“Regrettably, a total of twenty three (23) persons lost their lives, while one hundred and eight (108) others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
“Following the incidents, a combined team of Police Tactical Units, the Military, and other Joint Security Operatives were swiftly deployed to the affected areas.
” The scenes were immediately secured, cordoned off, and subjected to thorough sweep operations by Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit Base 13 Maiduguri to rule out the presence of any additional threats.”
He said the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid,, visited the affected locations to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the situation and to evaluate ongoing response efforts.
Daso added that the CP commiserated with victims and their families, while assuring the public of the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
“Victims were promptly evacuated by emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), to medical facilities where they are currently receiving treatment.
“Boro State Police Command wishes to state that normalcy has been fully restored in the affected areas. Meanwhile, joint security operatives have heightened security presence and surveillance across Maiduguri and its environs to prevent any further occurrences,” the PPRO further said.
He said investigations were ongoing to further ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incidents and to bring perpetrators to justice.
“The Borno State Police Command urges members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious movements or objects to the nearest security agency”, the statement further reads.
He said the Command appreciates the cooperation and resilience of residents and reassures all of its commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state.
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2026.3.12 Court jails three for 10 years over arms trafficking in Taraba
The magistrate court grade 1 in Jalingo, Taraba state, has sentenced three persons arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) to 10 years’ imprisonment over arms trafficking.
TheCable understands that the convicts — Sakina Garba, Ali Gono, and Ibrahim Abdulrashi — were arrested between January and February 2026 along the Wukari-Jalingo road in Taraba with arms concealed in two sacks of food items.
The DSS operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle, 984 rounds of 7.6 mm ammunition, 105 rounds of 7.82 mm ammunition, 14 AK-47 rifle magazines, three POS machines and N200,200 cash during the operation.
According to a security source, the convicts were transporting the arms and ammunition from Bantaje village in Wukari LGA of Taraba for delivery to a certain bandit kingpin, who is at large.
Meanwhile, Halima Umaru, a suspected arms courier, has pleaded guilty to the charges preferred against her at the federal high court in Abuja by the DSS.
The secret police arrested Umaru in Plateau state while in possession of 302 live rounds of ammunition which she was to deliver to one Sani.
A DSS witness had told the court that the suspect was arrested in Plateau with ammunition.
The witness tendered the ammunition, the investigation report, the defendant’s statements, and money recovered from her.
Haywa Yilwatda, the presiding judge, adjourned the matter to May 8 for sentencing.
The DSS has recently intensified efforts against criminal elements across the country, leading to the arrest of major suspects.
Shafiu Usman, a suspect linked to an attack on the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Aiyetoro, Kabba/Bunu LGA of Kogi state, was recently arrested by the DSS.
The secret police have also arrested suspects linked to the June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo state.
2026.2.5 Man arrested over unlawful possession of 4 human heads in Sagamu
Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have apprehended one Gafaru Rasaki for the unlawful possession of four human heads in the Sagamu area of the state.
The arrest was contained in a statement signed by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi on Thursday.
Babaseyi disclosed that officers of the Shakura division nabbed the suspect on the 21st of January, 2026.
According to him, the suspect on interrogation confessed to having exhumed the human remains from a cemetery.
The statement reads, “On the 21st of January, 2026, operatives of the Shakura Division arrested one Gafaru Rasaki in possession of four human heads.
“Upon interrogation and thorough investigation, it was revealed that the suspect unlawfully exhumed the human remains from a cemetery, an act amounting to disregard for corpses and a serious violation of the law.”
The Command Spokesperson disclosed that the recovered exhibits were secured and the suspect was promptly charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
2026.2.4 Kwara Attacks: 78 Corpses Given Mass Burial As 35 Persons Abducted
The grieving people of Woro community in Kaiama local government area of Kwara State have recovered the bodies of 78 victims of the attack launched on the rural community by armed bandits on Tuesday.
They performed the funeral prayer (janazah) on the corpses at about 6.30pm on Wednesday evening shortly before the evening (magrib) prayer.
The member representing Gwanabe/Gwaria constituency of Kaiama local government area in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Saidu Baba Ahmed, who witnessed the funeral prayer, confirmed the development to LEADERSHIP.
He said the 78 corpses comprised of 75 males and three females.
He also disclosed that 35 residents were abducted and whisked away into the bush by the armed bandits.
The Kano Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 arrested a Kannywood Star, Samha Inuwa over alleged Naira mutilation.
Inuwa was arrested following a viral video circulated on social media platforms where she was seen conspicuously cleaning mucus from her nose using Naira notes.
Following the release of the viral video, the Commission swung into action by tracing and subsequently arrested her to answer questions.
She is currently being held at the Commission’s detention facility while investigation is ongoing.
The suspect will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
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Bandits have struck Maraban Rido Community in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, abducting two daughters of a widow during a late night attack on Monday.
The victims were identified as Deborah Edward, a corps member who completed her National Youth Service Corps programme in December 2025, and her younger sister, Rachael Edward.
The assailants were said to have stormed the family’s residence late at night, forcefully breaking into the house and abducting the two sisters.
The incident occurred barely two weeks after the abduction of over 177 worshippers in Kurmin Wali community from ECWA and Cherubim and Seraphim churches, heightening concerns over the resurgence of insecurity in parts of Kaduna State.
Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, the distraught mother of the victims, Mrs. Alice Edward, said she was initially abducted alongside her two daughters and a visitor identified as Priscilla, who had come to sleep over in the house.
Mrs. Edward, a widow, disclosed that the attackers later released her after her daughters pleaded with the bandits to spare her life, explaining that she was their only surviving parent.
Alice said that she and her children had been ill before the attack and that her daughters begged the assailants to let her go so that nothing would happen to her.
According to her, the bandits released her but held on to the two sisters and the visitor who later escaped the attack, taking them away into the night.
Narrating her ordeal, Priscilla currently receiving treatment in the hospital said she was beaten severely by the bandits after Mrs. Edward was released.
She explained that the attackers continued to assault her with their guns until she lost consciousness and fainted, causing them to assume she was dead.
Priscilla said she only regained consciousness in the morning when a good Samaritan came to her rescue.
She further disclosed that during the ordeal, she told the attackers that her parents had no money to pay ransom, but they threatened to kill her in a miserable manner and intensified the beating until she collapsed.
Findings by New Nigerian revealed that the family had earlier fled Maraban Rido community between 2022 and 2023 due to rising insecurity and sought refuge in Narayi community before returning home in 2024 following relative peace attributed to the Kaduna peace model.
2026.1.29 Police file charge against activists for ‘abusive songs’ during anti-demolition protest in Lagos
The police command in Lagos has charged two activists — Taiwo Hassan and Dele Frank — who were arrested during the protest against demolitions in some communities in the state.
The police filed a five-count charge against the activists at the Yaba magistrate court in Lagos.
The force alleged that the activists threatened to harm members of the public who did not join the protest.
They also alleged that the activists sang “abusive songs” against the Lagos state government in a bid to incite the public.
Troops of the 245 Battalion, operating under the Headquarters of the 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, have arrested a suspected gun runner in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State during an intelligence-led operation aimed at curbing the illegal circulation of small arms and ammunition.
The operation, which took place on Sunday, January 26, 2026, followed actionable intelligence received by troops deployed in the area. The suspect, identified as Mr. Ojo Friday, is an indigene of Ochon in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State and a resident of Abomege in Ebonyi State.
During a search conducted at the point of arrest, the troops recovered 245 pump-action cartridges believed to have been prepared for illegal distribution. The suspect and the seized ammunition are currently in military custody, while preliminary investigations are ongoing to trace the source and possible network behind the arms supply.
Commenting on the development, the Commander of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena, said the operation underscores the Brigade’s commitment to intelligence-driven security operations and the disruption of illicit arms trafficking.
Armed men suspected to be marauding bandits operating from Kainji Lake National Park forest along Kabe District in Borgu local government area of Niger State, have set a village market ablaze, killed 30 villagers and abducted scores.
It was learnt that the bandits invaded the market called Kasuwan Daji located at Demo village via Kabe where they did not only set the market ablaze but looted people’s wares especially food items, shot at the villagers and abducted many of them through the path to the expansive Kainji Lake National Park forest.
Confirming the development to LEADERSHIP, the Niger State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Wasiu Abiodun, said: “A joint security team has visited the scene and over 30 victims lost their lives during the attack, some were kidnapped, efforts are ongoing to rescue the kidnap victims.”
2026.1.2 Driver in Anthony Joshua accident charged for reckless driving, granted N5m bail
The magistrate court in Sagamu, Ogun state, has granted bail to Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, the driver of the crashed Lexus sports utility vehicle (SUV) involving Anthony Joshua, the former world heavyweight boxing champion
TheCable understands that Kayode was charged on Friday by the police on a four-court charge bordering on dangerous driving causing death, reckless and negligent driving, driving without due care and attention, and driving without a valid national driver’s licence.
The driver was granted N5 million bail with two sureties. He was remanded in the correctional facility pending fulfillment of the bail conditions.
Oluseyi Babaseyi, Ogun police spokesperson, said the case was adjourned to January 20, 2026, for trial.
“Update: The Ogun State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the driver of the Lexus SUV involved in the Anthony Joshua accident case, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode (male), aged 46, was charged to the Sagamu Magistrate Court today, 2nd January, 2026 and the case has been adjourned to 20th January, 2026,” Babaseyi wrote.
Last Monday, the Lexus Jeep conveying Joshua, a former world heavyweight boxing champion, and two of his close associates crashed into a stationary truck around the Sinoma area near Sagamu, Ogun state.
The former boxing champion and three other passengers were reportedly travelling from Lagos to Sagamu when the SUV they were in collided with a stationary truck.
While Joshua survived the incident with minor injuries, his close associates — Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami — died.
Ghami was Joshua’s long-time friend and his strength and conditioning coach, while Latif served as his personal trainer.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said its preliminary findings attributed the motor accident to excessive speed and wrongful overtaking.
However, the Ogun police command said a tyre burst was responsible for the crash.
On Wednesday, the boxer was discharged from Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, after treatment for the injuries sustained. Subsequently, the driver was arrested by the police.
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