Category: Security

By Ebinum Samuel

 

 

The Nigerian Air Force, under the Joint Task Force South West, Operation AWATSE, has arrested drug suspects and recovered assorted narcotics during an intelligence-led operation in Lagos, handing them over to the National Drug and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

 

 

 

Speaking during the briefing, Air Commodore Muhammed Imam, the Commander, Base Services Group and Air Component Commander of Operation AWATSE, said the operation was established to protect critical national assets and combat multiple security threats in the South West.

 

He said: “The Joint Task Force South West Operation AWATSE was established to halt pipeline vandalism, crude oil and petroleum product theft along the 72 kilometre pipeline from the Atlas Po to the Mosimi Depot. The operation is also an anti-banditry, anti-kidnapping, anti-robbery and anti-drug abuse operation.”

 

He said the launch of a follow-up operation was based on a Federal Government directive conveyed through the Chief of Defence Staff.

 

 

He said: “In line with this mandate and in accordance with the recent Federal Government of Nigeria Directive, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, directed the theatre commander of the operation to launch Operation Ember Guard.

 

“Accordingly, Operation Ember Guard was launched to deny criminal elements in the southwest the freedom of action”, which he said made sustained patrols and raids lead to the arrest of suspects in December.

 

“With 18,000 raid operation patrols and in this light, on the 28th of December, while leading an intelligent lead operation around Igimu, Tatuaru and Egbeda, we arrested these 16 drug suspects.”

 

 

 

He listed items recovered from the suspects to include crack form of cocaine, 60 pieces of loud, 40 pieces of coded cough syrup, Kola and barcadi, six barcode, two pieces of Russian cream.

 

“We also recovered three electronic skills. We recovered crushers as well as psychotropic drugs like rohypnol, as well as ice.”

 

The base commander, who said the suspects were transferred to the appropriate agency for further action, were afterwards handed over to the NDLEA, who are statutorily mandated to deal with this kind of issue.

 

Also speaking, Stephen Oboshua, NDLEA Deputy Commander of Narcotics and Area Commander of Teju, commended the Nigerian Air Force for the arrests.

 

Representing the NDLA leadership in Lagos, he expressed appreciation for inter-agency collaboration.

 

He said: “On behalf of the State Commander-in-Person of ACGM, Aba Kaurani, and the entire Lagos State Strategic Command, we are appreciating the efforts of the Nigerian Air Force for taking it upon themselves in the course of their duties to effect the arrest of these six suspects and the several drugs being displayed here right now.”

 

He said the agency remained firm in its stance against drug abuse and trafficking, just as he stressed the importance of sustained collaboration among security agencies.

 

“We appreciate the synergy that we are enjoying with other systems, agencies, especially with the Nigerian Customs and Air Force officers and the Nigerian Navy.”

 

He noted that the fight against drugs was critical to protecting young people and “we shall continue to help the Nigerians to reduce the proliferation of drugs in their society, which tends to affect our youth, especially the central nervous system that we know that these drugs are affecting. Most of these drugs are depressants, drugs, and psychoactive in nature”.

By Ebinum Samuel 

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‎The Delta State Police Command has decisively quelled violent disturbances orchestrated by 43 hoodlums and criminal elements who attempted to hijack the New Year Eve celebrations in parts of Asaba metropolis for their nefarious acts.

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According to the command spokesman, SP Edafe Bright,‎at about 12.00am on Thursday, January 1, 2026, Command operatives led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of operations, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, engaged in a robust township patrol comprising Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders and their men to guarantee the safety of law-abiding residents and commuters during the festivities.

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‎During the operation, miscreants, touts and hoodlums, emboldened by the large crowd during the celebrations, engaged in acts of lawlessness by blocking major roads, illegal car races, reckless and dangerous driving, knocking down some commuters in the milieu, throwing fireworks at innocent members of the public and causing widespread public disturbance. The situation degenerated further as these hoodlums resorted to violent attacks on police patrol teams, hurling stones and other dangerous projectiles, while also burning tyres at key junctions, thereby deliberately obstructing free and safe movement, especially for worshippers returning from New Year church services.

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‎The Police, acting swiftly and professionally, deployed lawful crowd control measures to disperse the violent mob, restore order and prevent further breakdown of law and order.

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‎As a result of the operation, 43 suspects were arrested. Items recovered from them include 25 motor vehicles, 8 tricycles, fireworks, various hard drugs, and other dangerous offensive weapons. The suspects are currently in custody while investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of their involvement, after which they will be charged to court accordingly.

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‎The Delta State Police Command unequivocally condemns these criminal, reckless and unruly acts and wishes to issue a clear warning that any attempt to exploit festive periods to foment violence, obstruct public roads or attack security personnel will be met with firm and lawful resistance.

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‎Normalcy, Edafe said has since been fully restored, and the Command remains calm and under effective police control.

 

Adejobi-led continous monitoring and intensified patrols are ongoing to forestall any further breach of the peace. The command assures residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property and urges the public to celebrate responsibly, obey the law and promptly report suspicious activities.

By Ebinum Samuel

 

 

NDLEA recovers tons of skunk, opioids in Ekiti, Edo, Cross River, Gombe, Taraba, FCT, Lagos raids; nabs wanted businessman linked to Tincan port ‘Loud’ shipment

A notorious drug trafficker Nwobodo Chidiebere Basil previously convicted of dealing in 30.10kg methamphetamine in 2023 has again been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) following the seizure of 75 parcels of cocaine weighing 1.50 kilograms concealed in factory sealed sachets of cold-water starch heading to the United Kingdom at the export shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Ikeja Lagos.
Three cargo agents: Jubrin Firdausi Hassana; Kuku Daniel Oluwasegun; and Igwe Chioma Jane involved in the attempt to export the consignment to the UK were swiftly arrested on Saturday 20th December 2025 before further investigations unraveled 37-year-old Nwobodo Chidiebere Basil as the mastermind. He was arrested in a follow up operation on Sunday 21st December at a popular relaxation centre in Ikeja where he went on a date with his girlfriend.

 

The Agency’s criminal database revealed that Nwobodo had been arrested in May 2023 in connection with the seizure of 30.10kg methamphetamine concealed in powdered custard containers as part of a consolidated cargo going to London, United Kingdom at the export shed of the Lagos airport. He was subsequently arraigned at a Federal High Court in charge number: FHC/L/337C/2023, convicted and sentenced to five years imprisonment with an option of a fine of Seven Million Naira (₦7,000,000.00), along with one-month community service, with effect from 4th December, 2023. He paid the fine and soon after returned to the same crime.
‎In another successful operation, NDLEA operatives on Monday 22nd December set ablaze tons of skunk, a strain of cannabis and wooden warehouses in Ara forest, Ara-Ekiti where 638 kilograms of same psychoactive substance were also recovered. No fewer than 1,205 blocks of compressed cannabis sativa, weighing 883.1kg were recovered from three Toyota Camry vehicles intercepted by NDLEA operatives on patrol along Igara-Auchi road, Edo state on Monday 22nd December.
In Cross River state, raid operations conducted on Sunday 21st December at Agoi-Ibami community, Yakurr LGA, led to the arrest of three suspects and seizure of various quantities of skunk. They include: Freedom Jonah Akpama, 27, with 671kg; David Itam David, 30, with 89kg; and Nelson Arikpo Osam, 26, with 148kg. In another operation, a 42-year-old lady Joy Oisamaye was arrested with 38kg skunk by NDLEA operatives on patrol along Abaji- Abuja expressway on Monday 22nd December on her way from Otua in Owan East LGA, Edo state.
While NDLEA operatives in Lagos arrested a female suspect Ajoke Dauda with 45.5kg skunk on Christmas day Thursday 25th December at Agbara, along Badagry expressway, another suspect Oluwasegun Felix was nabbed with 18.5kg of same substance at Itoga, Badagry, the previous day Wednesday 24th December. In Takum area of Taraba state, two other suspects: Emmanuel Danladi, 39, and John Onoja, 41, were nabbed with 48kg of same substance on Wednesday 24th and Tuesday 23rd December respectively.
In Gombe state, a 65-year-old driver Sada’u Mohammed was arrested while conveying 300 ampoules of pentazocine injection, and 27,900 pills of tramadol, and other opioids, along Gombe-Biu highway, heading to Biu in Borno state.
Meanwhile, a 47-year-old businessman Ignatius Egbochie (alias Brown) wanted in connection with the seizure of 56 parcels of Loud, a strain of cannabis, weighing 26kg at the Tincan seaport in Lagos, has been arrested by NDLEA operatives. The illicit drug consignment was seized on 10th December during a joint examination of a container by NDLEA, Customs and other security agencies. A follow up operation by NDLEA operatives on 19th December led to the arrest of Ignatius in Apapa.
Across all Commands and formations of the Agency nationwide, NDLEA officers continued their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities in schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week. These include: WADA enlightenment lecture to students and staff of Destiny Child Academy, Nkpor, Anambra during their holiday skills acquisition training; women and teachers at Makaratar Mata Tatunawa da Marigayi Mustapha Nuhu, Kuki Gawo, Dutsinma LGA, Katsina and youths of Odokoro-Gbede, Ijumu LGA, Kogi state, among others.
While commending the officers and men of the MMIA, Lagos, Tincan, Seme, Ekiti, Edo, Cross River, FCT, Gombe and Taraba Commands for the arrests and seizures, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) acknowledged their commitment and enjoined them as well as their colleagues nationwide to remain extra vigilant throughout the festive season and beyond. He charged them to maintain highest standard of professionalism in all their drug control efforts.

By Ebinum Samuel

 

A Texas United States based security research and strategy organization has named the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) as security leader of the year 2025 for coming tops in operational success, integrity, institutional reform and sustained public confidence.
In a statement published on the organisation’s website on Thursday 25th December 2025, Ogun Security Research and Strategic Consulting LLC (OSRS) said its decision followed an independent, AI-assisted, and evidence-based assessment, which indicates “Nigeria’s security landscape in 2025 demanded more than force” but “leadership that could deliver results while earning public trust, protecting rights, and strengthening institutions.”
The organization said “In a year marked by terrorism, drug trafficking, organized crime, and public skepticism toward state power, one security leader stood out”, adding that “Marwa emerged as the clear choice and what his leadership reveals about the future of security governance in Nigeria.”
Why explaining the choice of Marwa for the recognition, “OSRS set out to answer a simple but critical question. In a difficult year for national security, who demonstrated leadership that balanced effectiveness with responsibility? Rather than counting arrests alone, OSRS evaluated leadership using four pillars: Operational effectiveness and measurable national impact; Respect for human rights and the rule of law; Employee welfare, morale, and internal discipline; and Public perception, trust, and institutional credibility.
“Artificial intelligence was used to analyze open source reports, performance data, and verified records. Human experts reviewed and validated every output. This approach reduced bias while preserving professional judgment. Across all indicators, one leader consistently ranked highest.”
According to OSRS statement, “Under Brigadier General Marwa’s leadership, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency achieved historic outcomes in 2025. The agency dismantled international drug trafficking networks, intercepted record quantities of illicit substances, and disrupted criminal supply chains that fund terrorism, banditry, and organized violence.
These were not isolated seizures. They were intelligence-driven operations executed through cooperation with international partners and supported by strong internal controls. By targeting the financial and logistical backbone of crime, the NDLEA delivered national security impact beyond traditional law enforcement.
“Results alone do not sustain institutions. Marwa’s leadership distinguished itself through reform and discipline. The NDLEA avoided major corruption scandals in a sector often plagued by them. Officers were promoted, rewarded for performance, and provided clearer career pathways. The introduction of body worn cameras and accountability mechanisms strengthened operational transparency. Employee welfare was treated as a security issue, not an administrative afterthought. This focus improved morale, professionalism, and operational consistency across the agency.”

 

On public trust and ethical leadership, the organization led by a renowned global security expert, Dr. Oludare Ogunlana noted that “In 2025, the NDLEA emerged as one of the few security institutions widely viewed as functional, credible, and disciplined. Marwa’s leadership style emphasized professionalism over intimidation and accountability over impunity. The agency’s actions aligned with legal standards and avoided the human rights controversies that undermined confidence in other institutions. Trust was earned through consistency, not rhetoric.”
On what Marwa’s selection signals for Nigeria’s security future, the body said
“OSRS’s decision reflects a broader shift in how security leadership is judged.
First, effective security now requires institutional integrity, not just force. Second, staff welfare and discipline directly influence national outcomes. Third, intelligence-led operations outperform reactive enforcement. Marwa’s leadership offers a practical model for reform across Nigeria’s security architecture.”
“Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa’s selection as the OSRS Security Leader of the Year 2025 is not about personality. It is about proof. In a year of pressure and uncertainty, his leadership showed that results, reform, and trust can coexist. Recognition is not the end of service. It is a reminder of responsibility”, the statement added.

By Ebinum Samuel

 

 

 

The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 5 with Headquarters in Benin City,and, comprising Delta and Edo State Police Commands, *AIG Salman-Dogo Garba, psc* has ordered the strategic deployment of Police personnel and operational assets across Delta and Edo state to ensure a safe, peaceful, hitch-free and seamless yuletide celebration.

 

This , according to the Zone image maker, SP Tijani Momoh, is in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, *IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun,* to all Zonal AIGs to strengthen security, intensify patrols, visibility policing, and other intelligence led operations throughout the period.

 

To this end, the deployment will focus on places of worship, recreational centres, markets, amusement parks, event venues, transport terminals and other densely populated areas. Additionally, patrol teams, surveillance units and traffic personnel have also been deployed to cover inter-state routes, major expressways, link roads to check road related crimes, and ensure free flow of traffic.

 

The AIG wishes to use this medium to extend his warm greetings to all Christian faithfuls and other citizens in the Zone as they celebrate the Christmas and New Year celebrations. He enjoins the general public to cooperate with the Police and other security agencies in their efforts towards ensuring peaceful yuletide festivities. Furthermore, members of the public are advised to be security conscious and report any suspicious activity, person(s) or movement to the nearest Police station.

 

Finally, the AIG wishes all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year celebration.

By Ebinum Samuel

 

 

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, this afternoon in Abuja, decorated one of the nation’s foremost security operative, Olufemi Abaniwonda with his exalted new rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG, at the Force headquarters in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

Abaniwonda, a cool-headed police chief, has in this past two years, proactively rooted criminals and other undersirable elements out of the oil producing Delta state. He’s said to have re-echoed the crime fighting style of the first Commissioner of Police for the state, late Tafa Adedayo Balogun.

 

 

The decoration was witnessed by the Delta State Executive Governor, Abaniwonda’s immediate family members, friends and well-wishers.

By Ebinum Samuel

 

 

The Delta State Police Command, through the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Edafe Bright, said it has observed with concern a misleading online report published by Sahara reporters alleging that the Command has flouted the Presidential directive on the withdrawal of police personnel from VIP duties. The Command categorically states that the report is false, unfounded, and misleading. The purported story suggesting non-compliance by the Delta State Police Command emanates from unverified social media posts and reports that do not reflect the factual position of the Command or the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). The allegation that officers remain attached to a resident identified as Sunny Nwakaego in Sapele despite a directive from the Presidency is incorrect and should be disregarded. The command, Edafe, says does not have any personnel attached to the said person as published by Sahara reporters. “However it’s pertinent to state that That on 12th December 2025, the DPO Sapele division received a distress call from one precious Itorho and Believe Odorkor against the said Sunday Okeke. Their disagreement over an undisclosed business transaction led to a fued and the DPO Sapele acted swiftly and invited all parties to the division where statements were recorded and they were granted bail while investigation continued.

“The Command wishes to reaffirm that it is in full compliance with the directive of the Federal Government, as conveyed by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, directing the nationwide withdrawal and redeployment of officers from personal VIP attachments to core policing duties. Implementation has been carried out in a structured and professional manner to ensure public safety is not compromised”

“The Delta State Command reaffirms its commitment to the safety and security of all citizens and continues to implement government policies with professionalism, discipline, and transparency. Members of the press are urged to verify information from the command through the office of the Police public relations officer before publication” Edafe disclosed.

By Ebinum Samuel

 

The Anambra State Police Command, according to its spokesman, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, is set to hold a Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons and End-of-Year Party with the theme “Policing: A Shared Responsibility” today by 5pm at Vertex View Hall, Nibo, Awka.

The event, the Command says will bring together Ndi Anambra, Security Stakeholders, Community leaders, and other relevant partners across the State to celebrate the festive season and reflect on the collective role of citizens and security agencies in maintaining peace and public safety.

The Commissioner of Police CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc mnips PhD, notes that the event is aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Police and residents, while fostering unity, trust, and shared commitment to security. It also serves as an opportunity to appreciate stakeholders for their support and cooperation throughout the year.

The Anambra Police Command is using the occasion to call for renewed collective commitment from residents to sustain the relative safety and security enjoyed in the State during the festive period and beyond, especially as the State prepares for the year 2026.

The Command reassures Ndi Anambra of its continued dedication to protecting lives and property, while urging everyone to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and supportive of security efforts across their communities.

 

 

SUSTAINING SAFETY DURING YULETIDE: ANAMBRA POLICE ARRESTS FAKE ARMED VIGILANTE OPERATIVES ROBBING INNOCENT RESIDENTS IN AWKA.

 

In furtherance of the ongoing investigations on a Case of Criminal Conspiracy and Armed Robbery, Police Operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad Awkuzu have arrested five suspects and recovered two pump-action guns, five live cartridges, one ash coloured shuttle bus, face masks, plate number and other incriminating items at Ring Road, Nibo, Awka.

The suspects all males include: Solomon Saddah, Okolocha George Kaosisochukwu, John Obi Ogwaju, Chukwuemeka Chisom Ikenwa and Eze Obinna Joshua.

 

During interrogation, the suspects made useful statements admitting involvement in criminal activities, and revealed how they operate in a shuttle bus under the guise of vigilante personnel to commit havoc. They are currently cooperating with the Police and providing information that will assist in uncovering other criminal collaborators and networks.

The Anambra State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property and urges residents to continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information.

Further developments will be communicated accordingly.

SP Ikenga Tochukwu

Police Public Relations Officer

Anambra State Police Command

21st December, 2025.