Crime

Gambia Releases 9 Stowaways to Nigerian Immigration Service

Published

1 year ago

December 6, 2023

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja received nine repatriated Nigerians who attempted to stow away to Europe through The Gambia. The stowaways were handed over to immigration officials by their Gambian counterparts.

Adesola Adesokan, the Comptroller of the NIS at the airport, cautioned Nigerians against attempting to stow away, describing it as a perilous journey that has claimed lives in the past. Two of the stowaways faced a near-death experience as they almost drowned while trying to evade arrest. Fortunately, they were rescued and taken to the Nigeria High Commission in The Gambia.

Mrs. Adesokan revealed that the High Commission processed emergency travel documents for the nine stowaways to be repatriated to Nigeria. However, the individuals were initially reluctant to return, demanding money from the Gambian immigration service as a condition for their repatriation.

“Nine Nigerians were sent back by The Gambian Immigration Service after attempting to stow away through the sea. Two of them almost lost their lives because they could not swim after jumping into the sea to evade arrest,” she explained.

Despite facing challenges, including resistance to their return and demands for money, the stowaways were eventually persuaded by the Nigeria High Commission in Banjul to return home. Mrs. Adesokan stressed the need for individuals contemplating irregular migration to abandon such plans and urged for a reorientation of values.

The returnee stowaways, speaking to the media, expressed regret over their actions. They claimed to have been lured into the journey by friends who successfully reached Europe through a similar route. Abdul Yakubu, one of the stowaways, disclosed that he was engaged in selling noodles and fried eggs on Lagos Island before being convinced to embark on the ill-fated trip. Another stowaway, Daniel Vincent, admitted they did not carry any food or water, underestimating the length of the journey, thinking Europe was just a three-day sea voyage.

The incident underscores the dangers and challenges faced by individuals attempting irregular migration, emphasizing the importance of discouraging such perilous endeavors.

Crime

NSCDC Arrests 36 Scavengers in Abuja Crackdown

Published

7 days ago

January 17, 2025

Admin

By Patrick Idowu
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has arrested 36 scavengers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as part of an ongoing crackdown on rising criminal activities.
Announcing the arrests on Wednesday, FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu said the operation followed the recent ban on scavenging and the temporary closure of Pantaker Markets to curb vandalism of public infrastructure and security threats linked to scavengers.
“These individuals, under the guise of collecting scrap, have been implicated in crimes such as vandalizing manhole covers, streetlights, armored cables, and bridge reinforcements,” Odumosu stated.
He warned that some scavengers carry weapons, rob commuters, and act as informants for criminal gangs.
Residents have also reported missing household items, including generators and car batteries, often traced back to scavengers.
The FCT Command has deployed personnel to enforce the ban, with offenders facing arrest.
“Scavenging is now prohibited both day and night, and Pantaker Markets will remain closed for two weeks,” Odumosu emphasized.
During recent operations, security personnel recovered weapons and narcotics, including daggers, jack knives, chisels, iron rods, 45 wraps of Indian hemp, and 10 bottles of codeine syrup.
Odumosu urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, assuring that the NSCDC, in collaboration with other security agencies, will continue efforts to maintain law and order in Abuja.

Crime

Alia Mourns Victims of Benue Truck Crash

Published

1 week ago

January 17, 2025

Admin

By Cynthia Abah

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic accident that claimed 10 lives in Okete, Ohimini Local Government Area.
A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, conveyed the governor’s condolences to the bereaved families, describing the incident as a devastating loss for the state.
Alia assured the affected families of the government’s support and pledged a full investigation to prevent future occurrences.
He prayed for the souls of the deceased and urged the community to rally around the grieving families in this difficult time.

Crime

Street Urchin in Soup for Stealing

Published

1 week ago

January 17, 2025

Admin

By Cynthia Abah

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested Abdullahi Sodiq, a street urchin, for allegedly stealing valuables, including an iPhone 12 Pro Max and travel documents, from a woman in Sagamu.
Police spokesperson CSP Omolola Odutola stated that officers from the Sakura Division apprehended Sodiq during a routine patrol after finding him in possession of a suspicious black nylon bag.
Upon investigation, the stolen items were traced to Iyabo Ogunubi, the rightful owner.
Authorities have assured that Sodiq will face prosecution while urging the public to remain vigilant against street theft.