Police Arrest 16 Suspects in Nationwide Nigeria Crime Crackdown
ABUJA, NIGERIA — September 21, 2026

Nigerian police have arrested at least 16 suspects across eight states in a series of operations targeting alleged kidnapping, armed robbery, homicide, sexual offences, cult-related activities and drug crimes.

The arrests were announced by Nigeria Police Force spokesperson Ani Iniedu in a summary of recent police operations released Sunday.

Arrests Across Multiple States
Police reported several arrests in Oyo State between September 17 and 18.

Among those arrested was a suspected member of a kidnapping syndicate. Two other suspects were also detained over allegations of helping conceal kidnapping activities.

Police also arrested a serving member of another security agency over alleged involvement in an armed robbery and abduction in Ibadan. A blue Toyota Camry allegedly used during the operation was recovered.

Suspects Held Over Alleged Sexual Offences
Authorities also reported arrests involving alleged sexual offences in Oyo State.

One suspect was arrested over the alleged sexual assault of a three-year-old girl in Saki. Police said evidence was recovered and the child was taken to hospital for medical treatment.

In Delta State, police reported six arrests in separate operations, including suspects accused of offences involving minors and others arrested during a raid on an alleged criminal hotspot.

Shooting Investigation in Kogi
In Kogi State, police arrested a suspect following a fatal shooting in Ohunene Community, Ajaokuta Local Government Area, on September 19.

A firearm allegedly connected to the shooting was recovered, according to police.

Another suspect was arrested in connection with a missing-person investigation in Anyigba.

Other Arrests Reported
Police also reported the arrest of a woman in Kogi State in connection with the death of her husband.

In Bayelsa State, a murder suspect was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Yenagoa after unrest broke out in the Ebedebiri community.

Authorities said tactical teams were deployed to the area to restore order.

Investigations Continue
Police said the respective State Criminal Investigation Departments are investigating the cases.

Authorities are also continuing efforts to identify other people who may be connected to the alleged offences.

The arrests are part of what police described as ongoing operations based on intelligence aimed at apprehending suspects and disrupting criminal activity across Nigeria.

All suspects are accused of offences and are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Sources
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