Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested nine suspects and recovered illegal firearms following a security operation in Aguata Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects, comprising seven men and two women, were apprehended after security operatives intercepted two vehicles during a stop-and-search exercise in Isuofia in the early hours of Friday.
Police said the operation was carried out by the Joint Operation Base, Aguata, led by Chief Superintendent of Police Austin Elaigwu, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service and operatives of the Agunechemba Security Outfit.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the security team stopped a custom-coloured Toyota Sienna and an ash-coloured Toyota RAV4, leading to the arrest of the occupants.
A search conducted on the vehicles resulted in the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action gun, charms and other items considered relevant to the investigation.
“The vehicles, a custom-coloured Sienna and an ash-coloured Toyota RAV4, were intercepted, leading to the arrest of nine suspects comprising seven males and two females.
“A thorough search of the vehicles led to the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action gun, charms and other items considered relevant to the ongoing investigation,” the statement said.
The police spokesperson said the suspects and the recovered exhibits were immediately taken into custody for further interrogation and investigation.
Ikenga disclosed that during preliminary questioning, the suspects claimed to be security operatives working in a neighbouring state but failed to provide convincing details about their identities, affiliations or possession of the weapons.
“However, they were unable to provide satisfactory explanations regarding their identities, affiliations, possession of the firearms and the purpose of their movement into Anambra State,” he said.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, commended the security personnel involved in the operation, describing the recovery as a product of intelligence-driven policing and effective stop-and-search tactics.
He also urged operatives to sustain their vigilance as efforts continue to strengthen security and curb the movement of illegal arms across the state.
