The Nigeria Police Force(NPF) on Sunday confirmed the arrest of a notorious fugitive from the Benin Republic, Sunday Kotin, just as it also disclosed that it handed him over to authorities in Cotonou following a discreet operation in Ogun State.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, who confirmed the development through a statement issued on Sunday, said Kotin, wanted for crimes including inter-border armed banditry, smuggling of firearms and ammunition, cattle rustling, and drug trafficking, was tracked down by operatives of the Police National Central Bureau of Interpol Nigeria.
Hundeyin in the statement said that the arrest came after Interpol Benin Republic contacted Interpol Nigeria in connection with the crimes, noting that seven members of Kotin’s syndicate are already standing trial in Benin, while he fled to Nigeria.
“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,” Hundeyin stated, adding that Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the officers involved in the operation, stressing the Force’s commitment to law enforcement cooperation.
“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.
“Nigeria will never serve as a safe haven for fugitives or purveyors of crime, no matter how highly placed or deeply networked,” Egbetokun said.
The IGP further assured both Nigerians and the international community of the Police’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,” the NPF publicist said in the statement.
