A police-led joint security operation in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State has led to the arrest of nine suspects and the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, a pump-action gun, charms and other items.
The suspects — seven males and two females — were arrested in the early hours of Friday during a stop-and-search operation at a checkpoint in Isuofia.
The joint operation was carried out by operatives of the Joint Operation Base, Aguata, led by Chief Superintendent of Police, CSP Austin Elaigwu.
The team comprised personnel of the Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service and the Agunechemba Security Outfit.
The suspects were intercepted in two vehicles — a custom-coloured Toyota Sienna and an ash-coloured Toyota RAV4.
The security operatives subjected both vehicles to a thorough search and reportedly recovered three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action gun, charms and other items considered relevant to the investigation.
The nine occupants were immediately taken into custody alongside the recovered exhibits.
Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu Anthony, said preliminary interrogation showed that the suspects claimed to be security operatives from a neighbouring state.
However, he said the suspects failed to provide satisfactory explanations regarding their identities, affiliations, possession of the firearms and reasons for entering Anambra State.
The police said investigations were ongoing to establish the identities of the suspects, determine the ownership and purpose of the recovered firearms and uncover their actual mission in the state.
Reacting, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, commended the joint security team for what he described as a successful interception.
The police commissioner said the recovery demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and coordinated stop-and-search operations.
He urged security personnel across the state to remain vigilant and sustain joint efforts against criminal elements.
Ama also reaffirmed the commitment of the Anambra State Police Command to strengthening collaboration among security agencies and ensuring the safety of residents and visitors.
The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
