The National Central Bureau (NCB) of the Interpol in the Nigeria Police Force has apprehended a notorious Beninese fugitive, Sunday Kotin, in Idi Iroko Town, Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State, connected to various crimes, including inter-border armed banditry, smuggling of firearms and ammunition, cattle rustling, and trafficking in illicit drugs.
A Sunday statement signed by the Force Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, revealed that upon arrest, the suspect was handed over to the Benin Republic counterparts.
According to the statement, the investigation revealed that the suspects escaped to Nigeria to evade arrest, while seven members of his syndicate are facing trial in the Benin Republic.
The statement reads, “The Nigeria Police Force National Central Bureau (NCB) of the Interpol, in furtherance of its steadfast commitment to international law enforcement and collaboration, has arrested and handed over a notorious Beninese fugitive, Sunday Kotin, to the authorities of the Benin Republic.
“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.
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“Investigation revealed that seven members of his syndicate are already standing trial in the 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, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the officers for their doggedness and professionalism, reaffirming 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 haven for fugitives or purveyors of crime, irrespective of their status or connections.
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.
