Nigeria’s police say they have recovered 140 firearms and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition during nationwide operations targeting armed robbery and kidnapping networks.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, disclosed the figures on Tuesday during a security briefing in the capital, Abuja.
According to a statement by police spokesperson Anthony Okon Placid, the recoveries were made during operations carried out in April 2026 across several parts of the country.
The police said the operations led to the arrest of multiple suspects, including 28 alleged terrorists, 51 murder suspects, 62 armed robbery suspects, 85 kidnapping suspects and 54 suspected cult members.
Officials also reported that 189 kidnapped victims were rescued, while 37 stolen vehicles were recovered.
Speaking at a meeting with senior officers, the Inspector-General said the Force was stepping up efforts to improve security through reforms and intelligence-led policing.
“We must strengthen accountability, discipline and intelligence-driven policing to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges,” Disu said.
He also confirmed that a new tactical formation, the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), has been created to respond more quickly to serious crimes.
“The unit will operate on intelligence-based deployment, backed by specialised training and strict respect for human rights,” he added.
The police chief also addressed a recent case of alleged extrajudicial killing in Delta State, describing it as unacceptable.
“The officers involved have been dismissed and the matter has been referred for criminal prosecution,” he said.
He further instructed police commissioners across the country to strengthen community policing through regular engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders and local communities.
The Nigeria Police Force says it is continuing efforts to improve public trust, professionalism and accountability as part of ongoing security reforms.
