Crime

Phone-Snatching Tricycle Operator Lands in NSCDC’s Dragnet

By Web News 535 0

The Niger State command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested a tricycle operator who is a member of a syndicate that specialises in snatching mobile phones from their passengers

The arrest came after the command received several complaints of phone-snatching and theft of bank savings through sim card.

According to the command, the arrest of the suspect followed work on intelligence provided by some of the victims.

The state Commandant of the Corps, Joachim Okafor, while briefing newsmen in his office, said the criminal syndicate operate with a mutilated security number written on the tricycle picking their victims as if they were passengers.

Phones recovered from the suspect

He said the suspect identified as Abubakar Aliyu confessed to the crime and is providing additional information that would lead to the arrest of the other gang members.

Some of the victims whose phones were recovered from the suspect narrated similar mode of operations deployed by the suspect to steal their mobile phones.

The suspect, who was the driver of the tricycle, said he hired the tricycle from one Aji, adding that it was the first time he engaged in the crime.

Channels/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Crime

Father in Court for Defiling 8-Year-Old Daughter

By Web News 116 0

The Ondo State Police Command has dragged a 35-year-old herb seller, Taiwo Mufutau, before an Akure family Magistrate court, for allegedly, defiling his 8-year-old biological daughter. Mufutau was arraigned on a single charge of rape, a violation of Section 25(a) of the Ondo State Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law of 2021.

The police prosecutor, Martins Olowofeso, informed the court that “the defendant was apprehended on June 18, 2004, following a report made to the Anti-kidnapping Unit at Alagbaka about the inappropriate relationship between him and his daughter. Olowofeso said that the defendant was subsequently detained for further investigation.

The charge sheet reads: “That you, Mufutau Taiwo, 35, male, on June 5, 2024, at about 4:pm at No. 40 Egbe-Road, Ayedun Quarters, Akure, did have carnal knowledge of your daughter, (name withheld), aged 8 years old, of the same address, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 25(a) of the Ondo State Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law 2021.”

The Police prosecutor told the court that Taiwo and his wife ran away from their house after the crime and went to Osun State to obtain a fake doctor’s report claiming that nothing happened to the girl.

Olowofeso added that the Police Investigating Officer(IPO), conducted another test in Akure, which revealed that there was penetration and the girl had been bleeding for three days.

According to him, the defendant confessed to the alleged crime during questioning by the investigating officer. The plea of the defendant was not taken due to the nature of the offence.
Olowofeso, through an application, urged the court to remand the defendant at the Olokuta Correctional Centre pending the issuance of advice from the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

But counsel to the defendant, G.O. Omoedu, informed the court that his client was just served and that he would need some time to respond on points of law. Omoedu therefore, urged the court to adjourn the case to enable him to reply to the remand application.
In her ruling, the trial Magistrate, B.A. Alipohul ordered that the defendant be remanded in police custody. Alipohul thereafter, adjourned the case till July 4, 2024, for hearing.

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Crime

NDLEA Bursts Snake-guarded Shrine used to Store Illicit Drugs

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By Olaolu Fawole

A snake guarded shrine used to store illicit drugs in Igor community, Benin city, Edo state, has been raided by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, who detected a specially constructed large hole storage in a wall covered with wallpapers and fetish objects.

Different quantities of illicit substances such as methamphetamine, Loud, Colorado and Arizona, all strong strains of cannabis with a total weight of 8.743 kilograms, were pulled out from the deep hole dug in the wall of the shrine building.

According to Femi Babafemi, Director, Media & Advocacy of NDLEA in Abuja, on Sunday said that at least, two ladies, Sonia Chinonso Ezumezu and Risikatu Tijani were arrested during the intelligence-led operation on Tuesday 18th June 2024 after the big black snake guarding the shrine was demobilized.

The statement said further that in the same vein, two suspects: Obi Ferguson,45, and Ernest Abanum, 46, were arrested on Saturday 22nd June when NDLEA operatives raided the Usen forest in Ovia South West LGA, Edo state where 209kg cannabis and a motorcycle were recovered.

Meanwhile, NDLEA officers in Lagos have intercepted a carefully packaged consignment of 8.2 kilograms of methamphetamine at a motor park in Mazamaza, Ojo area of the state.

The highly addictive illicit substance, also called ice or crystal meth was packed in imported Dunkin’ turtle love chocolate wraps and then concealed in the casing of three loud speakers.

A 39-year-old suspect, Michael Odiomume who was sending the consignment to Owerri, Imo state was promptly arrested on Wednesday 19th June at the park.

In Abuja, operatives on Tuesday 18th June intercepted a white Nissan Frontier pick up vehicle with amber lights and fake registration number of a security agency at Kiyi village in Kuje area of the FCT.

The vehicle was loaded with 454 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, weighing 340.8kg procured at Uzeba, Edo state. A 76-year-old grandfather, Mr. Francis Omofa, linked to the consignment was arrested. He claimed to have been in the illicit drug business for 10 years.

While commending the officers and men of Edo, Lagos, and FCT Commands, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) noted the balance in their drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts as well as those of their compatriots across the country.

He charged them to maintain the ongoing offensive action against drug cartels as they continue to intensify their war against drug abuse, WADA, social advocacy campaign.

Crime

Gunmen on Rampage in Ekiti

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By Amos Ogunrinde / Kazeem Ayodeji

Gunmen on Thursday Afternoon gunned down a yet to be identified Rice Hawker at Bisi market in Ado Ekiti.

According to report, the men, who were on a motorbike, shot and killed the wheel barrow pusher in the heart of the state capital.

The development forced traders and passersby to flee for safety.

The market has been deserted as those who spoke to newsmen said they would not return to the market.

Similarly in the early hours of Wednesday killed a popular Point of Sale, POS operator, known as Alfa Taofeek.

According to report, the incident happened at the shop of the victim, located adjacent the gate of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti.

The gunmen who came on a motorbike shot and killed Alfa Taofeek and made away with his money including other valuables.

A source who pleaded anonymity told newsmen that Alfa was just opening his shop after dropping his kids in school when the men of the underworld struck.

Alfa Taofeek is well known in the area with the display of bread on his vehicle.

Also, two gunmen on motorcycle had on Tuesday this week shot dead a ticketer of the Okada Riders Association, Omoyajowo Samuel at Okesa Area of Ado Ekiti.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ekiti State Command, Mr Sunday Abutu who confirmed the incident, said that investigation had commenced on the matter.

In the meantime, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has condemned the recent spate of killings in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, in the past few days.

Speaking with newsmen in Ado Ekiti, the governor emphasized his administration’s zero tolerance for cultism and violent activities.

He directed security agencies to take immediate and decisive action against those responsible for the attacks.

The governor assured the public that the government was fully committed to addressing the situation, urging them to remain calm and continue with their daily activities.

Mr Oyebanji reiterated his commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens, emphasizing that such acts of violence will not be tolerated under his administration.

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Crime

Man Hacks Wife to Death over Alleged Infidelity

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Residents of Idekan Farm Settlement in the Ijebu-Ode area of Ogun State were left shocked when a man named Matthew James killed his 55-year-old wife, Etim Mary, due to suspicions of her having an extramarital affair.

It was gathered that the incident took place around 8:00 p.m. on Sunday.

It was learnt from several Community and Police sources that the suspect, now in police custody, committed the crime after suspecting that his late wife was having an extramarital affair with another man in the community.

A witness, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, said the police operatives from the Ijebu-Igbo Division had taken the suspect into custody.

The source said, “They had a blood covenant that they would not leave each other. He suspected the wife was having an extramarital affair. The woman had been married before she met James. He married her when the woman was already ageing. She had grown up with children before James married her.

“James is claiming they both had a blood covenant not to leave each other for any reason. He just returned one morning with a machete and hacked the woman to death. He didn’t run away after committing the crime. He just stood beside her after.”

The spokesperson for the state Police Command, Omolola Odutola, commenting on Monday’s shocking incident, stated that the wife was pronounced dead by the attending doctor after being rushed to the hospital by other residents.

She said, “She was found lying in the pool of her blood just in front of the house about 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. She had deep cuts on her forehead, shoulders, and other parts of her body. The husband was found with the blood-soaked machete he was believed to have used to commit the crime.

“The body was taken to a general hospital in Ijebu-Igbo, where she was certified dead by a doctor on duty. Her corpse has been deposited at the Alayangbe Private Mortuary in Oke-Agbo, Ijebu-Igbo, for the autopsy.

“We will move the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Abeokuta as soon as the preliminary investigation is concluded.”

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Crime

Home Tutor Defiles 13-Year-Old Girl in Ogun

By Web News 238 0

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested Femi Onayemi, for defiling a 13-year-old girl (name withheld) in the Obada-Oko area of the state.

The suspect had earlier been hired by the girl’s parents to tutor her at their home in the community in 2023.

Parents of the victim were shocked when the suspect scaled the fence of their home to gain access to the 13-year-old’s room and commit the heinous crime.

The spokesperson for the state command, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the incident and stated that Onayemi had been arrested.

She said, “The parents of the minor approached our division at Obada Oko on June 12, 2024, to report the incident. The suspect was employed in 2023 to help the survivor with her studies at home.

“However, on June 9, 2024, the suspect was caught committing the crime after he had jumped over the fence of the house. Our men swung into action immediately after the matter was reported.

“The suspect was also believed to be attending the same church that the survivor attends every Sunday. He confessed to the crime after we arrested him.”

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Crime

Ritual: Police Go after Father for Allegedly Smashing Daughter to Death

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The Police Command in Delta has launched a manhunt for a fleeing father who allegedly murdered his six-year-old daughter at Agbarho Community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.

Spokesman of the command, SP Bright Edafe, who disclosed this to newsmen on Sunday in Warri identified the suspect as Stanley Ovemureye.

Edafe said that the suspect, currently at large, allegedly smashed the head of his daughter, Abigail, on the wall several times before she gave up the ghost.

He said that the incident occurred on Saturday, adding that the matter was reported at the Agbarho police division by the suspect’s brother.

“The command is aware of the gruesome murder of one Abigail Stanley, aged 6, allegedly killed by her father, Ovemureye.

“The sad incident which occurred on Saturday was reported at the division by the brother of the fleeing suspect.

“The Divisional Police Officer on receipt of the complaint, detailed operatives to the scene at Uviama New Layout, Agbarho in Ughelli North Local Government Area.

“The police operatives recovered the corpse of the little child whose head was smashed several times on the wall, and deposited it at the mortuary.

“The father who is the principal suspect is currently at large,” Edafe said.
He said that the Commissioner of Police (CP) of the command, Mr Olufemi Abaniwonda had ordered a serious manhunt for the fleeing suspect.

Edafe added that the CP had assured the public that the suspect would be apprehended and justice meted accordingly.

He, however, said that the CP had urged anyone with useful information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect to call the control room number on 0803684974 or report at the nearest police station.

Stanley allegedly killed his six-year-old daughter for ritual.

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Crime

Child Labour: ILO Trains Journalists on Communication Development

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By Olufisoye Adenitan

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) through its Action Against Child Labour in Agriculture in West Africa, (ACLAWA), has trained selected media practitioners in Ondo State on Communication for Development on the Elimination of Child Labour.


The three days training was held in Akure, between Thursday 13th June and Saturday 15th June, 2024 and participants were drawn from different media organizations in the state.

Speaking, The Director of, the ILO Country Office For Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, And Liaison Office for ECOWAS, Vanessa Phala, represented the Program Manager of the ILO, ACLAWA Project, Dr. Kolawole Agatha, charged media professionals to be committed to investigating and reporting on child labor issues within the state and beyond. 

The Director said the workshop was aimed at building the capacity of media practitioners to support the advocacy in the fight against child labor. 

Dr Agatha explained that media plays a pivotal role in combating child labor by raising awareness and mobilizing public opinion against this disturbing issue and trend in society.

She urged them to continue to educate the public and policymakers about the burdens child laborers face and the danger to their mental health saying media coverage can pressure governments and corporations to implement and enforce stricter laws and policies to protect children from exploitation.

Dr Agatha said the media should amplify the voices of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), activists, and survivors of child labor, ensuring that their messages reach a broad audience, by highlighting successful interventions and stories of rescued children.  

Also speaking on the investigation and writing of human interest stories in the quest to eliminate child labor, The National information officer of the United Nations Information Centre, UNIC, Dr. Oluseyi Soremekun highlighted the skills and components of Investigative reporting to include credible sources, Data gathering, Undercover and protection of identities of underaged children as well as follow up to the stories.

Dr Soremekun encouraged journalists in the state to change the narrative on child labor reporting to build more conversation that will spur the government to intensify efforts towards eliminating child labor.

In an address, the Controller, Federal Ministry Of Labour And Employment in Ondo State, Mrs Olanike Mogboruko, emphasized that Child Labor was a scourge that affects millions of children worldwide, robbing them of their childhood, dignity and potential urging media practitioners to help  in shaping public opinion, influencing policies and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.

She assured that the ministry would collaborate with relevant agencies to improved advocacy on child labour in Ondo state 

Addressing the participants,the Ondo NUJ chairman, Leke Adegbite who appreciated the efforts of the ILO through the ACLAWA project towards eradication of child labour in the country said the mass media have the capacity to help the key stakeholders in eliminating child labour in Ondo state.

Adegbite also urged media practitioners to give top priority to investigating and reporting child labor-related cases through their various platforms

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Crime

EFCC Boss Visits Ooni, Says Commission Given Free Rein

By Web News 205 0

 By Oluwakayode Banjo

Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede says President Bola Tinubu has greatly shown immense political will in the fight against economic and financial crimes by not interfering in the works of the Commission.

He stated this in Ile-Ife,  Osun State while on a courtesy visit to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye  Ogunwusi.

He disclosed that,  “since I was appointed the Chairman of the EFCC, the President has never called me to stop, impose, dictate or prescribe any directive as regards the affairs or activities of the Commission, rather the anti-graft agency has so far enjoyed adequate support needed from the Federal Government towards achieving the mandate of the Commission”.

The EFCC’s boss told the Ooni of Ife that given the autonomy the Commission has gotten so far, “I can assure Nigerians that the EFCC will stop at nothing to curb if not eradicate corruption in the country and hold political office holders accountable for their activities regarding the management of the resources that are meant to better the lives of Nigerians”.

He added that President Tinubu has continued to support him immensely in the way and manner needed for the Commission to achieve its mandate despite all unhealthy complaints and criticisms coming from  some elites and political office holders in the country.”

Olukoyede, while expressing his gratitude to the foremost monarch for the support and royal blessings coming from him so far in the fight against corruption, he assured that “the EFCC will fight head-on  those entrusted with our common wealth for robust economic growth but using  them for their personal gains”.

The anti-graft Boss stated that the EFCC under his leadership has adopted new dynamic measures in looking into the roots of corruption by creating a new department called “Fraud Risk Assessment and Control” saddled with the responsibility of working through the budgetary allocations in all ministries, departments and agencies of Nigerian Government  to demand and ensure accountability on how our common wealth is being utilized.

“Few months after I assumed office, I created a new department that will ensure that all public office holders are strictly held accountable for the resources entrusted in their hands by Nigerians which are meant for the effective growth of our economy.

“Let me state this clearly that all what I do in the course of discharging my duties as a public servant is not to witch-hunt anybody and not for any personal reasons but to ensure that the grand strategic plans of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu towards a better Nigeria is achieved”, he said.

In his response, Oba Ogunwusi  thanked the anti-graft czar for his unequivocal commitment, deliberate efforts and passion he is deploying  towards the fight against corruption. He particularly applauded the  community engagements and collaboration initiatives  among relevant stakeholders in combating the menace of corruption adopted by the Chairman to ensure corruption is brought to its knees.

Furthermore, the monarch thanked Mr. President on behalf of  the EFCC for non-interference in the activities and duties of the Commission.  “This shows that truly, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu stands  to achieve a corrupt- free nation and we all must support him by contributing our quotas”.

The royal father assured the Chairman of his continuous support in the fight against corruption as he encouraged the “ dogged crime fighter” not to succumb to pressures and threats from those who are benefitting from corruption and putting the image of the country in bad light. 

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Crime

Video: We never assaulted suspects in Ondo Club – EFCC

By Web News 843 0

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has denied assaulting, brutalising, or subjecting to any dehumanising treatment of some suspects arrested last Saturday in Akure, Ondo State.

A statement by the EFFC’s Head of Media & Publicity, Dele Oyewale, titled EFCC’s Akure Arrests: Setting the Records Straight, urged the public to discountenance a viral video of two ladies lacerated by whips.

The Commission further says that it will subject the video to forensic analysis to establish its falsehood and prepare a case against purveyors of what it called the “distasteful stunt”.

The EFCC denied using any tear gas during the operation even as it also denied tampering with the CCTV facility at the scene of the arrest.

“It is also important to state that no damage was done to the CCTV facility at the scene of the arrest,” the EFCC said. “The device was removed by a staff of the Club at the instance of operatives of the Commission to preserve the footage for further analysis of the role of each of the arrested suspects in the alleged crime”.

Channels / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Crime

NDLEA Intercepts Another 175,000 Bottles of Codeine-based Syrup

By Web News 240 0

By Olaolu Fawole

Barely a week after seizing a shipment of 175,000 bottles of codeine-based syrup at the Port Harcourt Ports complex in Onne, Rivers state, operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have again intercepted another consignment of 175,000 bottles of the same opioid imported from India.

Femi Babafemi, Director, Media & Advocacy, NDLEA in a statement in Abuja on Sunday, said the two seizures followed earlier intelligence, which made the Agency requested that the shipment be stepped down for 100 percent examination.

According to the statement, the latest seizure of 875 cartons of codeine containing 175,000 bottles and weighing 26,250kg, was made on Friday 7th June 2024 during a joint examination by NDLEA, Customs Service and other security agencies. The container marked HASU 4787890 from India was enroute C to C bonded terminal in Enugu.

In the same vein, NDLEA officers of the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation (DOGI) on Wednesday 5th June intercepted five different parcels containing illicit drugs concealed in ladies’ clothes and synthetic hair going to the United States and United Kingdom.

Some of the seized drugs included 620 ampoules of pentazocine injection, promethazine and other opioids. The drug consignments were seized at a courier firm in Lagos.

In Kebbi state, NDLEA operatives on patrol along Kalgo-Birnin Kebbi road on Saturday 8th June arrested a 32-year-old Nigerien, Hassan Mummuni with 4,000 pills of diazepam and 1.250kg cannabis, concealed in four pesticide tanks, while operatives in Gombe state same day arrested Ibrahim Abubakar (aka Alhajiji) at Herwagana, with 6,740 pills of tramadol and 20,000 tablets of diazepam.

Not less than 1,098 bottles of codeine-based syrup were recovered from a suspect, Onyekachi ThankGod Iwula, 42, following his arrest in a commercial bus at Aloma junction, Otukpa, Ogbadibo LGA, Benue state.

In Bauchi state, NDLEA officers on patrol along Ningi-Kano road on Wednesday 5th June arrested a 20-year-old lady, Hasana Usman, with 25 blocks of cannabis sativa that weighed 28.2kg, while their counterparts in Yobe state nabbed Ali Mohammed, 42, along Kano-Potiskum road, with 19,000 pills of tramadol 225mg concealed in a black sack and the suspect’s travelling bag.

In Oyo state, 57-year-old Oladimeji Samson was arrested in a commercial bus at the Ibadan end of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway with 79 blocks of cannabis sativa weighing of 44.4kg and 48 grams of ecstasy, all concealed in the engine compartment under the driver’s seat of the bus.

Not less than 17,980 pills of tramadol and other opioids were seized from a suspect, Ali Isiaka Mohammed, 36, following his arrest at Ganaja village, Lokoja LGA, Kogi state, while the duo of Blessing Samuel, 35, and Unnanchi Mike, 34, were arrested with 804 bottles of codeine syrup at Narayi, Kaduna state. Also in Kaduna, Tijjani Umar, 37, and Yahaya Suleman, 35, were arrested with 33.9 kilograms of cannabis sativa at Lafiya area, Kudan local government area of the state.

At least, nine suspects including Salisu Sanda, 48, and James Andrew, 25, were arrested by NDLEA operatives during a raid at Toaabora hills area of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja on Saturday 8th June with a total of 83.01kg cannabis recovered from them.

While commending the officers and men of PHPC, Gombe, Benue, Kogi, Kaduna, Oyo, Yobe, Bauchi, Kebbi and FCT Commands as well as those of DOGI for the arrests and seizures, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd) noted, charged them and their compatriots across the country to maintain the zeal and tempo.

Crime

Middle Aged Man in NSCDC Net over Alleged Theft

By Web News 293 0

By Mojisola Oladele

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Osun State Command has apprehended a 40-year-old man, Jide Fadipe, alleged to have vandalized a government primary school building in Ilaje-Area, Ilesa, Osun State.

Following a report from a concerned citizen, the command launched an investigation and deployed surveillance around the school area, leading to the suspect’s arrest in the hours of last Tuesday, while attempting to remove roofing sheets.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by Osun Command NSCDC, Public Relations Officer, ASC Kehinde Adeleke and made available to newsmen in Osogbo.

ASC Adeleke explained that the suspect was caught trying to sell the stolen materials to metal scraps buyers in Ilesa.

She emphasized that the suspect’s prosecution would serve as a deterrent to others who engage in similar criminal activities.

ASC Adeleke urged the public to continue supporting the NSCDC in its efforts to protect government properties and critical infrastructure.

Crime

Fear as Kidnappers Abduct Two Siblings in Oyo

By Web News 378 0

By Kayode Oguntona

Residents of Ajegunle village, near Awe in Afijio local government area of Oyo state now live in fear following the abduction of two brothers from same family by suspected kidnappers.

It was gathered that the family relocated to the village about two months ago from Bode Saadu in Kwara state while the incident occurred on Tuesday.

According to the victims’ father, Alhaji Muhammadu Jayun, the senior brother, Bello Jayun managed to escape from the bandits with injuries sustained while the suspected kidnappers are yet to contact the family about the fate of the junior brother.

Commander, Vigilante Group of Nigeria, VGN Oyo state command, Comrade Sunday Olajide who confirmed the incident said his men are already taking action after reporting the matter to the Police, adding that the escaped victim needed to recover from his shock before giving more details.

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Crime

So-Safe Corps Apprehends Man for Attempted Murder

By Web News 268 0

By Olatunji Idowu

The Ogun State Community, Social Orientation and Safety Corps, called So-Safe Corps have arrested Ibrahim Ogunrinde, a 46-year-old resident of Adu Town, Ajebo Road, Mile 6, Abeokuta, for attempted murder.

A statement issued by the Office of the State Commander of the Corps, Dr Soji Ganzallo, through the Office of Director of Information and Public Relations of the Corps, Mr Moruf Yusuf, confirmed that the suspect was arrested at Ijaye Garage on Thursday at about 2.30pm 

The statement revealed that Ibrahim Ogunrinde, a butcher and farmer, had pretended to be a passenger and asked the victim, Kosu Daniel (aka “Jeje”), to take him to Olubo Town on Wednesday, July 5, 2024, at noon where he allegedly stabbed Kosu Daniel in the neck and arm, leaving him in a pool of blood, and escaped with the victim’s motorbike.

The suspect confessed that he was motivated by a desire to eliminate the victim, who he believed had an affair with his wife two months prior and  he believed he had succeeded in killing the victim, not knowing that Kosu Daniel was rushed to the hospital and currently receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta.

Dr.Ganzallo said the suspect and the recovered motorbike have been transferred to the Nigeria Police Force, SWAT, Magbon, Abeokuta for further investigation and  prosecution.

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Crime

Ex-LG Chairman Bags Four Years Imprisonment

By Web News 154 0

By Mojisola Oladele 

Iwo Chief Magistrates court sitting in Osogbo has sentenced a former Local Government chairman, Mr Tajudeen Babatunde, to four years imprisonment for offenses bordering on conspiracy, malicious damage, and arson.

Mr. Babatunde had previously served as Caretaker Chairman of Iwo West Local Council Development Authority.

Others that were sentenced alongside Babatunde after their trial in suit number: MIW/68c/2019, include three Beninois citizens namely; Sunday Ajoko, Jonas John, and Kohonu Deboye, while Adeoye Alabi and Kasumu Ajao.

All six defendants were arraigned on four counts bordering on conspiracy, malicious damage, and arson. They were found guilty on all the counts and subsequently sentenced to a four-year jail term.

The Presiding Magistrate, A. Famuyide, however, gave Ajao an option of an N80,000 fine, considering his age and ill health.

The defendants and others yet to be apprehended were said to have, on or before the 16th day of February 2019, at Ayigbiri Orupekere farm located along Iwo/Ibadan road in Iwo, Osun State cut down about 400 palm trees and other economic trees valued about N10 million.

They were also accused of setting the farm ablaze after the trees were cut down.

Moreover, the nominal complainant in the matter, the Oosa Olaniyi family in Iwo, through its counsel, Mr Dele Abbas, had written to the Osun State Ministry of Justice to take over the prosecution of the matter from the Police, the request that was granted by the government.

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Crime

Soldiers Killing: Fish out Culprits, Tinubu Orders Security Agents

By Web News 822 0

President Bola Tinubu has ordered security agents to go after the killers of five soldiers in Aba, Abia State and those behind the call for sit-at-home in South-East.

Tinubu said on no account should anyone, under any guise, have the audacity to kill agents of the state.
This was contained in a statement on Saturday night.

The President, who was reacting to the murder of five soldiers in Aba on Thursday, May 30, by elements suspected to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, warned that the Federal Government will come down heavily against those who have made it a habit to needlessly attack officers and men of our armed forces.

The statement reads: “I have received yet another disheartening news of the killing of five soldiers by suspected militants of the proscribed terrorist organization, IPOB.

“The slain soldiers were on peacekeeping duty in Aba, Abia State on Thursday when they were murdered, just two months after a similar tragic incident happened in Okuama in Delta state.

“These unwarranted barbaric and evil acts stand condemned and should never be condoned and tolerated in our country.

“Our soldiers and the police have the onerous duty to protect all of us from aggressors and non-state actors. Hundreds of them have paid the ultimate price in fulfilment of their duty, while some have experienced the indignity of being manhandled by the people they protect.

“They surely do not deserve the mindless attacks by unruly societal elements.

“The federal government will come down heavily against those who have made it a habit to attack the officers and men of our armed forces needlessly.

“I want to make it clear that the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the armed forces can crush violent non-state actors, making our communities unsafe.

“I urge security agencies not only to fish out the masterminds and perpetrators of the Aba attack but also those calling on people to stay at home. Their action is nothing but a treasonable offence.

“The fact that the security forces exercise necessary restraints should not be mistaken for weakness.
“We are working to build a peaceful and harmonious society, but nobody should be under any illusion that the government will not act appropriately when the lives of our officers and men are wantonly taken.

“While my condolences go to the families of the five slain soldiers, their colleagues and the leadership of our armed forces, I urge other men and women on peacekeeping duty not to be discouraged by the unfortunate incident in Aba.”

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Crime

Armed Robbery Suspects Plunge to Death at Court Premises

By Web News 1482 0

By Jeffrey Ahonmisi

Two suspects standing trial for conspiracy and armed robbery, Damilare Adeniran and gift john have plunged to their death at the Iyaganku Magistrates’ Court premises, Ibadan.

Recounting the unfortunate incident to Radio Nigeria, the Prosecutor, Inspector Femi Omilana said the two suspects  jumped down from the two storey building while standing trial at court 11 of the facility.

He noted that one of the suspects broke the window in the courtroom and jumped out while the other rushed out and dived over the rail in front of the courthouse.

Inspector Omilana stated that the suspects committed the act as the Magistrate, Mrs Gladys Oladele was about to announce the date for the next adjournment of the case.

The police had charged the  suspects and three others with conspiracy and armed robbery and had appeared in court twice before the latest appearance.

The Prosecutor, Inspector Femi Omilana had earlier told the court that the five suspects were remanded at nigeria correctional service, agodi,ibadan since 2023 pending legal advice from the department of public prosecution on the case.

Inspector Omilana said the five suspects sometimes in 2023 while armed with guns and other dangerous weapons robbed some victims of their belongings.

He said the three other suspects have been handed to the nigeria correctional service officials  while the magistrate,mrs Gladys Oladele adjourned the case until July 8th.

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Crime

So-Safe Corps Nabs 3 Suspects for Alleged Vandalism

By Web News 123 0

By Olatunji Idowu

The Ogun State Community, Social Orientation and Safety Corps otherwise called So-Safe Corps has arrested three persons for alleged vandalising  transformer cables in Idiroko, Ipokia Local Government Area.

A statement issued by the Office of the State Commander, Dr Soji Ganzallo, signed by the information director of the agency, MrMoruf Yusuf confirmed that the patrol team led by Chief Superintendent of Corps Abdulkareem Abdulrazaq arrested the suspects on May 26, 2024, at about 0530hrs.

According to the statement ,the suspects, Eze Sunday, an ex-convict, Eze John Charles, and Jamilu Danjuma, confessed to the crime and mentioned the third suspect as the receiver of the stolen items. 

The suspects and the recovered exhibits, including burnt and separated copper wires, have been transferred to the Nigeria Police Force, Idiroko Divisional Headquarters for further investigation and likely prosecution.

The commandant said that the security outfit would continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of Ogun State citizens.

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Crime

EFCC Nabs 7 Illegal Miners, 2 others for N1.2m Bribe

By Web News 224 0

Officials of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC have arrested seven suspects for illegal mining activities and seized five truckloads of minerals from the suspects.

The Anti-graft agency disclosed this in a statement posted on X.com on Wednesday.

The statement partly reads, “The arrest, which followed credible intelligence and days of surveillance, was carried out on Friday, May 24, 2024, at Ogbomosho, Oyo State.

“The suspects are Waliyu Abidoye, Abubakar Auwal, Abdulrauf Hakim, Sabiu Usman, Salihu Godwin, Dauda Mohammed, and Olalekan Aremu.

“At the point of arrest, five truckloads of assorted minerals suspected to be lepidolite, lithium, and precious stones, among others, were recovered from the suspects.”

It further read that investigations revealed the suspects lacked the necessary licenses and permits for mining and mineral possession.

“They were also not paying royalties to the federal and state governments, as required by law,” it added.

The officials also arrested two others, Faleti Waheed and Noah Olalekan, for attempting to secure the release of one of the trucks with a N1.2 million bribe.

The statement added, “The duo of Waheed and Olalekan approached the EFCC operatives at the point of arrest and negotiated to give them money in order to have their seized truck released.

“The officers played along and got the suspects arrested at the point of delivering the money.”

The sum of N995,500 was said to have been recovered from Waheed, who claimed to be a gas station manager, while N201,000 was recovered from Olalekan, who claimed to be a scavenger.

The EFCC added that the suspects will be charged in court once the investigation is completed.

According to reports on May 18 that five illegal miners were arrested at the Izom Bridge along the Minna-Suleja Road in the Izom ward of Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State.

Punch/Adebukola Aluko

Crime

Murdered ACU Student Will Get Justice, NANS Assures

By Web News 187 0

The National Association of Nigerian Students, Oyo Axis, has given assurance that Alex Timileyin, a student of Ajayi Crowther University, who was tortured to death due to a phone theft allegation, will get justice.

Chairman, Oyo NANS, Ridwan Adegoke, said this during a telephone interview with Punch correspondent on Wednesday.

Timileyin was clubbed to death by his colleagues on Saturday over an accusation that he stole a mobile phone. He was beaten after the lost item was allegedly found in his possession, and it was said that his attackers had allegedly had his (the deceased) hair forcibly shaved.

Witnesses also confirmed the incident, stating that Timileyin was beaten from “6 p.m. (Friday) until he died at about 10 a.m. (Saturday).”

The management also released a statement that the culprits, now expelled, have been handed over to the police for investigation.

Adegoke said the students’ body was monitoring the justice process, as he gave assurance that they had not been given a reason to doubt, as he was abreast of the management and police efforts in making sure the law takes its place.

He said, “I have been working with the state police command, and I can confidently say that they are on their toes. You are hearing directly from me; I am active and interested in seeking justice because the deceased was a fellow student whom I am representing, so I cannot compromise.

“I was at the ACU campus yesterday and met with the management team, and I also visited the police station where the perpetrators are detained. When they were handed over to the state criminal investigation department, I had to call the police to confirm if they had arrived there, so that is how we have been monitoring the progress of the case.

“The school as well is proactively involved in this case; I gathered that they involved DSS in apprehending the alleged student on the run, and it was said that his parents have been contacted and instructed to provide him. It was even the school that hand-picked 18 suspects and handed them over to the police for interrogation.

“We are acting as watchdogs, and the concerned authorities (university and police) have not given us a reason to doubt; when we observe lapses, manipulation, or foul play, we will blow the whistle.”

Adegoke also noted that the incident has prompted a broader discussion on the need for the management to strengthen campus security in order to prevent future occurrences.

“We have met with the school, briefed them of our agitation, stance, and also made our request known. The primary interest is how we can barricade future occurrences, as we have told them to improve their school security,” Adegoke said.

Meanwhile, Oyo State Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, on Tuesday, however, called for calm and cooperation among all parties involved.

The state Commissioner for Education, Salihu Adelabu, noted that efforts are ongoing to resolve the issue at hand. He urged the school to increase campus security.

“The Oyo State Government has called for calm among parties involved in the lingering crisis at Ajayi Crowther University Oyo while security agencies investigate to ascertain the origin of the incident for appropriate action.

“The state government has been discussing with the management of the institution towards finding lasting solutions to the crisis,” it read.

Adelabu said Governor Seyi Makinde’s government is committed to academic excellence and a peaceful environment.

Punch/Adebukola Aluko

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Crime

NSCDC Apprehends Suspected Illegal Miners

By Web News 178 0

By Rasheedah Makinde 

Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, NSCDC, Oyo State command has apprehended ten suspected illegal miners in Ido town, Ido local government area of the state. 

 The suspects were arrested with six hundred tonnes of Feldspars Mineral Resources worth over ten million Naira. 

The ten suspected illegal miners are Adewale Akinkunmi, Justine Egejuru, Gbadamosi Abeeb, Mustapha Alao and Ayuba Abdulrahaman. 

Others include Hammed Abass, Bolarinwa Hassan, Jimoh Kudus, Sanni Ayuba and Usman Umar. 

Parading the suspects at the NSCDC office, Iyaganku, the Corps Commandant, Mr Augustine Padonu said they were apprehended for illegally exploring and mining solid mineral to be Feldspars mineral resources without license and royalty payment receipt to the federal Government. 

https://radionigeriaibadan.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG_0.mov

Mr Padonu said the arrest became imperative as the act was part of economic saboteur that has been affecting the national development of the country. 

 He reiterated that the Federal Government had declared a zero tolerance for illegal mining. 

He said the mineral resources were conveyed in three intercepted trucks with the intent to deliver it at a company at Igbesa in Ogun State. 

 Mr Padonu, thereby, called on members of the public to be vigilant and more security conscious as well as providing useful information to NSCDC and other security agencies to collectively fight against any crime and criminality in the state.

The NSCDC boss added that the suspects would soon be charge to court after conclusion of their ongoing discreet investigation. 

One of the suspects, who claimed to be the site manager, Adewale Akinkunmi, said it was a shock to him when they were accosted by security operatives that the company had not been paying the appropriate royalty to the Government.

He explained that since he had started working with the company, he believed that they had perfected all the paperwork, as well as, paying for the necessary resources. 

Reacting, the Zonal mines officer on solid mineral in the Southwest, Engineer Gbenga Ajayi said illegal mining was one the factors that has been hindering the development of the sector and the country at large. 

He said anyone who wishes to venture into mining should go through proper channels in order not to be a victim of law. 

Mr Ajayi noted that illegal mining has been on the increase in Nigeria and has been causing the sector lots of money, hence the need for a proper monitoring from all the concern stakeholders to put a stop to the menace. 

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Crime

Police Apprehend Man with Illegal Firearm

By Web News 880 0

By Mojisola Oladele 

Nigeria Police, Osun State Command has apprehended a twenty-two year old Man, Olatunji Damilola in possession of unlawful firearm.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs Yemisi Opalola disclosed this to newsmen in Osogbo.

Mrs Opalola said the Police received a report on the 18th of this month that some group of individuals engaged themselves in physical brawl along Balogun Agoro Junction, Osogbo.

She stressed that a team of operatives from Police Response Unit, PRU swung into action and were able to apprehend the suspect, Olatunji Damilola, popularly known as Damoshe.

Mrs. Opalola said upon investigation and interrogation some exhibits were recovered including; 4 pump action guns, three cut to size barrel gun, one locally made pistol, one jack knife, ten cutlasses and thirty three live cartridges of ammunition.

She assured that efforts are on to apprehend other suspects in connection with the case as the suspect would be charge to court after the investigation. 

The State Police Public Relations Officer, who cautioned people against going around with unregistered vehicles or covered number plates, urged people to give prompt credible information to the police always.

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Crime

Tramadol Lands Man in Jail

By Web News 416 0

By Mojisola Oladele 

Justice Mashkur Salisu of a Federal High Court Sitting in Osogbo, has sentenced a traveller, Nwoke Ifeanyi to a two-year jail term for illegal possession of 600 grams of tramadol.

Ifeanyi was arraigned on 15th May, and he admitted to the offence of illegal possession of the drug.

Arraigning Ifeanyi, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Prosecutor, Mr Olufemi Ijimakin, said the convict was arrested along the Gbongan-Ibadan expressway with 1,010 capsules weighing 600 grams of tramadol, contrary to the provision of Section 19 of the NDLEA Act, 2004.

The Counsel to the convict, Mr. Alfred Adegoke, pleaded with the court to be merciful with his client, noting that he had promised to turn a new leaf.

In his Judgment, Justice Salisu explained that the confessional statement of Ifeanyi and his admittance of guilt alongside other pieces of evidence tendered by the prosecutor were enough to find him guilty.

Justice Salisu stressed that Section19 of the NDLEA Act, 2004 under which Ifeanyi was convicted provided for a minimum of 15 years sentence, but considering the plea of the counsel, the convict would be sentenced to two years imprisonment with effect from the date of arrest on 4th April, 2024.

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Crime

NDLEA Arrests Four, Declares Couple Wanted

By Web News 469 0

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has declared a couple, Kazeem Omogoriola Owoalade and Rashidat Ayinke Owoalade, wanted for running a cocaine cartel from India.

This follows the arrest of four members of the syndicate in Lagos, where a Sports Utility Vehicle was recovered and two houses traced to them were sealed for forfeiture to the Federal Government.

This was made known in a statement signed by the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, and shared on its website on Sunday.

The statement read, “A couple, Kazeem Omogoriola Owoalade (alias Abdul Qassim Adisa Balogun) and Rashidat Ayinke Owoalade (alias Bolarinwa Rashidat Ayinke), who runs a cocaine cartel from India has been declared wanted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency following the arrest of four members of the syndicate in Lagos where a Sports Utility Vehicle was recovered and two houses already traced to them sealed for forfeiture to the Federal Government.

“Two members of the syndicate: Imran Taofeek Olalekan and Ishola Isiaka Olalekan were arrested on April 3, 2024 following their bid to export 3.40kg cocaine on a Qatar Airlines flight going to Oman through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA Ikeja Lagos.

“While Imran was the courier conveying the drug consignment to Oman, Ishola recruited him for the head of the cartel, which investigation has now revealed to be Alhaji Kazeem Omogoriola Owoalade whose Indian residence permit bears Abdul Qassim Adisa Balogun based in India.

“Efforts to dismantle his network in Nigeria paid off after five weeks of surveillance and follow up operations when another member of the syndicate, Hamed Abimbola Saheed, who works directly with the baron was arrested on Tuesday 14th May at Abule Egba area of Lagos. It was indeed Saheed who lodged Imran in a hotel a day before his aborted trip to Oman and equally dropped him and Ishola at the Lagos airport the day they were arrested.”

During a search of Hamed’s house, NDLEA operatives were said to have recovered some phenacetine, a cutting agent for Cocaine, weighing 900 grams.

He was said to have confessed that the recovered substance was what was left of the consignment Imran was taking to Oman the day he was arrested.

His arrest led to a follow up operation at the home of the Owoalade couple at 20, Eyiaro Street, Ogudu Orioke, Lagos where another suspect was arrested and a new model Toyota RAV4 SUV marked FKJ-773 JJ belonging to Rashidat and additional 400 grams of Cocaine recovered in addition to already prepared suitcases to be used for illicit drug concealment, digital weighing scales and other paraphernalia.

Punch/Adebukola Aluko

Crime

Police Arrest Five over Missing Placenta in Kwara Hospital

By Web News 375 0

The police in Kwara State have commenced an investigation into the disappearance of the umbilical cord and placenta of a newborn baby at Government Cottage Hospital, Iloffa in the Oke-Ero Local Government Area of the state.

The mother, identified as Mrs C. Williams, a class teacher at Orota Secondary School, Odo-Owa, was reported to have had the child on Sunday night but was not given the umbilical cord and the placenta by the hospital’s workers.

Five of the workers were later arrested in connection with the missing parts and were being detained by the general Investigation unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department of the command in Ilorin.

The suspects detained by the police include a resident doctor, three nurses and a ward attendant at the hospital.

According to Reports, the police were invited when efforts to settle the controversy at various levels failed,

It was further gathered that it took the efforts of elders of Odo-Owa community to calm some angry youths who suspected foul play and were about to burn down the hospital on Tuesday over the incident.

Mrs Williams, while narrating her ordeal, said that she was rushed to the hospital while experiencing labour pains on Sunday afternoon and gave birth to a baby at about 7 pm the same day.

“I was feeling some labour pains on Sunday and I got to the cottage hospital, some minutes past 1 pm on Sunday, and told the nurse I met on duty that I was having contractions; she was the one that attended to me after confirming that I was truly in labour.

“She took me into the labour room and asked me to wait because I still had more time. Not quite long after I came, the doctor also came in and instructed the nurse to usher me into the labour room,” she said.

She said that after having the baby, the following morning, she was discharged and allowed to go home.

She, however, said that the hospital workers gave her a bag containing her items but did not give her the placenta and the umbilical cord of the baby when they asked her to go home.

“Although they handed a black nylon bag to me, I discovered that there were two missing items inside the nylon; they are the umbilical cord and the placenta,” she said.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ejire-Adeyemi Toun, confirmed the incident, adding that the investigation was ongoing.

“The police are investigating the incident and five suspects have been arrested in connection with it,” the PPRO said.

Punch/Adebukola Aluko

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