Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Abia State Police Command has arrested two suspects for allegedly possessing firearms and ammunition illegally, recovering a locally made pistol and live cartridges during a stop-and-search operation in Aba, the state's commercial hub. The suspects, identified as David Emmanuel, 33, and Joel Emeka, 25, were apprehended on Friday, June 12, 2026, along Azikiwe Road by Kent Road in Aba, according to a statement issued on Thursday, June 18, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka.
The arrest was carried out by operatives of the Nediegoro Divisional Police Headquarters while they were conducting routine stop-and-search duties along Azikiwe Road. During the operation, officers intercepted an auto rickshaw conveying the suspects. A third occupant of the vehicle reportedly fled the scene upon sighting the police, while Emmanuel and Emeka were immediately apprehended, Chinaka said. A subsequent search of the suspects and the tricycle led to the recovery of a locally made pistol, one live round of ammunition, live cartridges, a small black bag, and the auto rickshaw used for transportation.
The police spokesperson confirmed that the recovered items have been taken into custody as exhibits, and the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation. “The suspects are in police custody and investigation is currently ongoing at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and will be charged to court on completion of investigation,” Chinaka stated. The command reiterated its commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents across the state, while also urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to assist security agencies in crime prevention and detection.
The arrest is part of ongoing efforts by the Abia State Police Command to clamp down on the proliferation of illegal firearms and criminal activities across the state. In recent months, security agencies have intensified stop-and-search operations and intelligence-driven raids in major cities, including Aba and Umuahia, as part of measures to curb armed robbery, cult-related violence and other violent crimes. The command has assured residents that it remains resolute in its determination to rid the state of criminal elements and protect lives and property. As investigations continue, the two suspects are expected to face prosecution upon the completion of the ongoing inquiry.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com ✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments