The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed the release of Justice Faruk Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court, who was abducted from his residence in Bunza Local Government Area on July 26.
The confirmation was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Kebbi State Command, SP Bashir Usman, ANIPR, ANISMA.

He said the judge regained his freedom on August 3, adding that his release has been confirmed by his family and the Kebbi State Ministry of Justice.

According to the police, although the kidnappers demanded a ransom during the period of captivity, the command maintained its stance against the payment of ransom.

The command said security agencies had intensified efforts to track down those responsible for the abduction, stressing that investigations were ongoing to ensure the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted.

It appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist the investigation, assuring that all information received would be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

The police also appreciated residents and partner security agencies for their support and cooperation throughout the operation, while reaffirming the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Kebbi State.

The command urged residents with useful information to contact the Police Control Room through its designated emergency lines as investigations into the abduction continue.

The Department of State Services, DSS, in collaboration with other security agencies, have recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing counter-insurgency operations in Imo State, leading to the killing of two suspected commanders of the Eastern Security Network, ESN, and the destruction of several militant camps.

Security sources disclosed that the operation, carried out within the last month, targeted camps linked to notorious militant leaders identified as Ifeanyi Okorienta-Eze, popularly known as “Gentle de Yahoo,” and Monday Oluchi Ogu, alias “B44.”

Among those reportedly killed during the raids were Solomon Akarachukwu Alisiobi, also known as “Maddox,” and Chima Azubuogu, popularly called “Akajiofor,” both described by security operatives as key ESN commanders.

According to ARISE News, the DSS played a central role in providing intelligence and coordinating the joint security operations, which also involved other security agencies.

The sustained offensives are said to have significantly weakened the operational capacity of the armed group, disrupting its command structure and reducing its ability to launch coordinated attacks across the state.

Security stakeholders noted that the ongoing intelligence-driven operations have contributed to the relative calm witnessed in several parts of Imo State in recent weeks.

They added that the successful raids have depleted the fighting strength of the militant network, forcing surviving members into disarray and enhancing public confidence in the state’s security architecture.

The development comes amid intensified efforts by security agencies to curb violent attacks and restore lasting peace in the South-East region.

Operatives of the Damaturu Command of the Yobe State Hisbah Board have foiled a planned “Color Festival” organized by some youths in Damaturu, the state capital.

This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by Media and Publicity, Hisbah Damaturu Command,
Y.M. Abba.

According to the statement, the operation was carried out on Saturday, August 1, 2026, noting that the action was part of its efforts to uphold morals, protect Islamic values, and prevent activities contrary to the teachings of Islam.

“We will continue to monitor and take appropriate measures to ensure peace, moral discipline, and the preservation of religious values in the society”, the Command stated.

It also issued a stern warning to individuals and groups planning events or celebrations that violate Islamic teachings to desist from such acts.

“The Hisbah Board will not relent in taking legal action against anyone found organizing or supporting such activities,” the statement warned.