The Anambra State Police Command thwarted a robbery that was planned to happen along the Ebenebe-Achalla Road in Awka North Local Government Area.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, revealed this information in a press release on Tuesday, stating that the operation took place on Monday.
Ikenga further explained that the Rapid Response Squad from Awkuzu conducted the operation as part of their anti-kidnapping patrol. This action was prompted by a tip-off from a vigilant resident who had spotted the robbery suspects carrying firearms while riding on a motorcycle.
Ikenga stated: “Men of Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu of Anambra State Police Command on Monday, October 16, 2023, foiled a planned robbery operation along Ebenebe-Achalla Road in Awka North LGA of the state.
“The operatives, while on anti-kidnapping patrol, were tipped off by a public-spirited citizen who saw two gunmen being conveyed on a motorcycle along the road.”
“The operatives went in pursuit of the gang and encountered them where they had positioned to rob motorists.”
The spokesman added, “On sighting the approaching operatives, they tried to engage them in a shootout but the battle-ready operatives quickly overwhelmed them, forcing them to abandon their weapons and fled into the bushy environs.”
“Operatives combed the bush and recovered two AK-47 rifles loaded with several rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and shells of expended rounds.”
He went on to mention that the state’s Commissioner of Police, CP Aderemi Adeoye, expressed his appreciation for the team’s bravery and urged them to intensify their proactive operations in that region of the state until all criminal individuals causing distress to the citizens are entirely eliminated.