Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Pierre Antoine
The Rivers State Police Command says it has arrested a passenger after officers allegedly discovered a concealed firearm hidden inside a loaf of bread during a routine stop-and-search operation in Port Harcourt. The command described the discovery as another example of the methods being used by individuals attempting to evade security checks.
The incident occurred along Azikiwe Road near the Red Cross Junction in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and was confirmed on Friday, June 26, 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Rivers State Command, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo. The operation was carried out by police officers acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, during a routine security patrol and stop-and-search exercise.
According to the police statement, officers stopped a vehicle as part of their regular security checks aimed at identifying and preventing criminal activities within the state. The passengers were subjected to a search procedure, during which officers discovered the suspected firearm concealed inside a loaf of bread.
The police identified the passenger linked to the concealed weapon as Braya Nanas, a male resident of New Road, Borikiri, in Port Harcourt. The command said the Browning pistol was found hidden inside the bread belonging to the suspect.
The discovery attracted attention because of the unusual method allegedly used to conceal the firearm. The police said the case showed the importance of continued security checks and careful examination during operations.
The firearm recovered was identified as a Browning pistol. According to the police, the weapon did not have a visible serial number, a development that raised questions about its origin and how it entered circulation.
The Rivers State Police Command said the suspect was immediately taken into custody and that investigations had begun to establish the circumstances surrounding the possession of the firearm.
During initial questioning, the police said the suspect allegedly admitted ownership of the pistol. The command stated that Nanas claimed he purchased the weapon in Okrika for N800,000.
The police did not provide further details about the alleged seller or the circumstances surrounding the purchase. Authorities said investigations were continuing to establish more facts about the firearm and any possible links connected to it.
The command also did not disclose whether the suspect was allegedly transporting the weapon to another location or whether any other person was involved. Police officials said such details would depend on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju praised the officers involved in the operation, describing the recovery as part of efforts to prevent illegal weapons from entering communities.
The commissioner warned that individuals involved in criminal activities are adopting different methods to avoid detection by security agencies. He pointed to the concealment of the pistol inside a loaf of bread as an example of the need for continued vigilance.
He urged residents of Rivers State to remain security-conscious and to report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. The commissioner said cooperation between the police and the public remained important in preventing crime.
The police also advised citizens to be careful when accepting, transporting or keeping items on behalf of others when the contents are unknown. The command said people should avoid situations that could unintentionally expose them to legal or security problems.
The arrest comes as security agencies across Nigeria continue operations aimed at reducing the circulation of illegal firearms. Authorities have repeatedly expressed concerns that the availability of unlicensed weapons contributes to violent crimes.
Illegal firearms have been identified by security agencies as a major challenge in efforts to combat kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent offences. Police commands across the country regularly conduct patrols and searches to intercept weapons and suspects.
In Rivers State, law enforcement agencies have maintained security operations in different communities as part of efforts to improve public safety. Port Harcourt, as the state capital and a major commercial centre, has remained a key focus for security monitoring.
Stop-and-search operations are among the routine measures used by security agencies to detect weapons, stolen property and other items connected to criminal activity.
However, police authorities have also repeatedly stated that such operations must be conducted within legal guidelines while respecting citizens’ rights.
The latest incident highlights the role of intelligence gathering and community cooperation in supporting security operations. Police officials have encouraged residents to provide useful information that can assist investigations.
The Rivers State Police Command said it remains committed to preventing crime before it occurs rather than only responding after incidents have happened.
The command stated that officers would continue patrols and other proactive measures across the state to protect lives and property.
The case involving the recovered pistol will now move through the investigation process, after which authorities are expected to determine the next legal steps.
The police have not announced whether charges have been filed against the suspect, as the investigation is still ongoing.
The recovery of the firearm also highlights the broader challenge faced by security agencies in tracking illegal weapons and preventing them from reaching criminal networks.
Security experts have often stressed the importance of addressing the sources of illegal firearms, including identifying suppliers and networks involved in their movement.
For the police, the discovery demonstrates the importance of thorough searches during security operations, especially when officers encounter situations involving suspicious behaviour or information.
The command reiterated that residents should remain alert and avoid carrying items whose contents they cannot verify.
The Rivers State Police Command said members of the public remain important partners in maintaining security, adding that timely information can help prevent criminal activities.
As investigations continue, police authorities are expected to gather additional information about the recovered pistol, including its history and how it came into the possession of the suspect.
The incident serves as another reminder of the ongoing efforts by security agencies to address illegal firearm possession and strengthen public safety.
The Rivers Police Command said it would continue its operations across the state while ensuring that individuals suspected of criminal offences are investigated according to the law.
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