The Nigerian Police reportedly said it had apprehended 2,175 suspects since April 5 this year amidst efforts by the security to curb heinous crimes in Nigeria, adding that banditry, abduction and killing are at the zenith of offences escalating in the country.

The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, revealed this while addressing a delegation of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Nasarawa State chapter, who visited him in Abuja.

According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Frank Mba, the IG stated that the 2,175 suspects included 852 apprehended for abduction, 865 for banditry, 359 for murder and 99 for cultism.

Mba said, “The IG called for tougher legislation against kidnapping and banditry, including possible state seizure of assets linked to illicit proceeds from kidnapping and other crimes. This, the IGP believes, will act as a strong disincentive to potential kidnappers and other criminals.

“The IG stated that since the launch of Operation Puff Adder on April 5, 63 kidnapped victims had been rescued by the police.

“In a similar vein, 2,175 suspects were arrested. With respect to arms recovery, the IG noted that 834 arms, including two rocket launchers and 19,009 live ammunition, were recovered, with Oyo State recording the highest number of 9,500 live ammunition.

"The IG stated that the police were re-jigging their strategies to ensure proactive interception of illicit weapons destined for our country and at the same time mop up unauthorised weapons from circulation.

“He added that a good number of the cases were already being prosecuted in courts, while many others were still under investigation.”

The security agency thereby affirmed that the police operatives attached to the Operation Puff Adder had also rescued 63 kidnap victims within the period and called for tougher legislation against abduction and armed robbery, including the seizure of assets linked to these crimes.