Police clarify differences between robbery and armed robbery

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Nigeria Police Force spokesperson, Olumiyiwa Adejobi has clarified the difference between robbery and armed robbery, citing a recent review of Nigeria’s Criminal Code.

Adejobi noted that Section 401 defines robbery as stealing with the use or threat of violence, while Section 402 outlines punishments, including a minimum of 21 years imprisonment for ordinary robbery.

The spokesman stressed that armed robbery involves using weapons or offensive substances to instill fear or cause injury, carrying more severe penalties under the Robbery and Firearms Act.

He wrote on X (formally Twitter) on Saturday, “Section 401 of the Criminal Code defines the offence of robbery, and Section 402 of the Criminal Code states the punishment. There is a difference between robbery and armed robbery.

“When someone (the robber or thief) is armed with any weapon, offensive weapon, or substance that can create fear and/or cause injury to the victim, it’s armed robbery. Read the sections and get informed. Be law-abiding. Thanks.”

However, understanding these laws is crucial for maintaining legal awareness and promoting safety