The Nasarawa State Police Command has apprehended 17 individuals suspected of involvement in armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, and rape.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner of Police, Umar Shehu Nadada, during a press briefing.
Nadada emphasized the command’s heightened efforts to ensure safety during the festive period, which include enforcing a ban on the sale and unauthorized use of fireworks.
“The ban is in line with the provisions of the law to prevent fire outbreaks, injuries, public disturbances, and other criminal activities associated with these items,” Nadada explained.
He revealed that the suspects were arrested during operations in Lafia, Mararaba, and Awe, where officers targeted known criminal hotspots.
In one of the operations in Mararaba’s A Division, police raided a residential property on Yelwa Road and arrested three suspects. The search led to the recovery of a locally made rifle and knives.
In a separate incident in Agwatashi, Obi Local Government Area, two suspects were taken into custody for allegedly conspiring to kill a woman in an attempt to avoid repaying a ₦40,000 debt owed to her.
Highlighting the role of community cooperation in crime prevention, Nadada expressed gratitude to residents for their contributions.
“We appreciate the efforts of the public in providing useful information to help us combat criminality,” he stated.
The Commissioner also issued a strong warning to criminal elements, urging them to avoid Nasarawa State, as the command remains resolute in its mission to tackle criminal activities.
“These arrests reaffirm the police’s dedication to maintaining security and ensuring a peaceful festive season across Nasarawa State,” Nadada concluded.
