The Nigeria Police Force National Central Bureau (NCB) of the Interpol, has arrested Benin Republic’s wanted fugitive, Sunday Koyin in a discreet operation in Ogun State and handed him to authorities in Cotonou.
Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin who disclosed this in a press statement said Kotin had been wanted for crimes such as inter-border armed banditry, smuggling of firearms and ammunition, cattle rustling, and drug trafficking.
He was tracked down by operatives of the Police National Central Bureau of Interpol Nigeria.
He said “Interpol Benin Republic had contacted Interpol Nigeria to arrest Kotin in connection with a series of heinous crimes including inter-border armed banditry, smuggling of firearms and ammunition, cattle rustling, and trafficking in illicit drugs. Investigation revealed that seven members of his syndicate are already standing trial in Benin Republic, while he absconded into Nigeria in a bid to evade justice.
“Acting with precision and working on credible intelligence, operatives of the NPF NCB carried out a discreet operation that led to the arrest of the suspect in Idi Iroko Town, Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State.
“The fugitive was subsequently interrogated on his transnational criminal escapades and officially handed over to officials of NCB Cotonou.
“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, while commending the officers whose doggedness and professionalism made this feat possible, reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s resolute dedication to safeguarding the sovereignty of Nigeria, preserving the rule of law, and strengthening the bonds of cooperation with international counterparts.
“He emphasised that Nigeria will never serve as a safe haven for fugitives or purveyors of crime, no matter how highly placed or deeply networked.
“The IGP further assures the Nigerian public, as well as the international community of the Nigeria Police Force’s relentless pursuit of criminals, its steadfast partnership with global law enforcement agencies, and its firm obligation to ensuring peace, security, and justice for all.”
