The Enugu State Police Command has arrested five male suspects for alleged armed robbery and related offences in separate operations across the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Enugu, the Command’s spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed that officers recovered two firearms and seven rounds of ammunition from the suspects.
According to Ndukwe, on 29 October at about 5:45 p.m., operatives of the Distress Response Squad intercepted a shuttle bus heading from Enugu to Abakaliki during a stop-and-search operation along the Enugu–Abakaliki Road.
“Upon inspection, officers discovered that one of the occupants was in unlawful possession of a cut-to-size locally made single-barrelled gun and immediately placed him under arrest. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect was travelling from Awka, Anambra State,” he stated.
Ndukwe further disclosed that on 28 October, at about 10:30 p.m., operatives of the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad, acting on credible intelligence, raided New Garriki by Ukwu-Achara in Enugu and arrested another suspect. A locally fabricated Beretta-style pistol loaded with one round of 9mm calibre ammunition was recovered from him.
Similarly, on 20 October at about 2:00 p.m., police officers, working with members of the Neighbourhood Watch, raided a black spot at Amechi-Awkunanaw in Enugu. Three suspects were arrested, and six live cartridges were recovered from the scene.
Ndukwe added that all suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
The state Commissioner of Police, Mamman Giwa, commended the operatives for their successful operations and urged residents to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and supportive of the police, especially during the ‘ember’ months.
“As a Command, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to sustaining the fight against unrepentant criminals and ensuring the continued safety and security of all residents in the state,” he affirmed.