The Nigeria Police Force Special Tactical Squad (STS) has recorded major operational breakthroughs across several states, arresting 22 suspects linked to serious crimes including armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, cattle rustling, car snatching, economic sabotage, impersonation and drug trafficking.
In a statement issued on December 25, 2025, by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the STS operations led to the recovery of six firearms—comprising one LAR rifle, one pump-action gun, one AK-49 rifle, one AK-47 rifle and one SMG rifle—as well as two live rounds of ammunition.
Police also recovered 45 other exhibits, including vehicles, motorcycles, illicit drugs and items suspected to have been used in criminal activities.
According to the statement, a major intelligence-led operation along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway resulted in the interception of a J5 vehicle conveying 13 brand-new motorcycles alongside weapons and other incriminating items.
Further investigations led to the arrest of a 35-year-old suspect, Luke Ifeanyi, in connection with armed robbery and economic sabotage.
In related operations within the Federal Capital Territory, STS operatives arrested Ayo Abiodun, a Kuje Custodial Centre escapee, who is suspected to have violently robbed a serving Nigerian Army officer.
Another suspect, 40-year-old Yusuf Shehu, was arrested with a stolen tricycle.
Investigations revealed that Shehu was impersonating a police officer, with a police mobile uniform and a police identity card recovered from him.
The squad also intercepted a vehicle conveying large quantities of leaves suspected to be cannabis and other controlled substances.
Elsewhere, four suspects were arrested in Edo State for unlawful possession of prohibited firearms and alleged violent attacks on a community.
In Lagos and Ogun States, two suspects linked to a car-snatching syndicate were apprehended.
In Nasarawa State and neighbouring areas, 12 suspects connected to banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling were arrested, with several firearms recovered during the operations.
Police said investigations into all the cases are ongoing, and the suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigations, in line with extant laws.
Commending the operatives for their courage and professionalism, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, said the successes reflect the Force’s commitment to protecting lives, dismantling criminal networks and ensuring public safety.
He also urged members of the public to continue providing credible information to support the police in the fight against crime and criminality across the country.
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