Published by Osasere Edomwonyi Ikpoba
The Anambra State Police Command has recovered a Beretta pistol, a pump-action gun, and a cache of ammunition from fleeing robbery suspects during a joint security operation in the Nnokwa area of the state, dealing a significant blow to criminal elements operating in the South-East region. The operation, conducted by operatives of the command's Anti-Cult Unit in conjunction with local vigilance groups, also led to the arrest of two suspects and the recovery of the weapons, which were reportedly abandoned by the fleeing robbers.
In a statement released in Awka on Thursday, September 3, 2026, the command's spokesperson, SP Toochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the recovery and provided details of the operation. According to the statement, the operatives, while on a routine patrol along the Nnokwa-Nnewi Road, intercepted a group of suspected armed robbers who opened fire on the security team upon sighting them. The security operatives, acting on intelligence and in response to the attack, engaged the suspects in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to flee into the surrounding bushes with bullet wounds.
During a search of the area after the gun duel, the police recovered one Beretta pistol, one locally-made pump-action gun, and six rounds of live ammunition. The recovery of the weapons represents a significant achievement in the ongoing fight against armed robbery and cult-related violence in Anambra State, which has witnessed a surge in criminal activities in recent months. The police have intensified operations across the state to curb the menace of armed robbery, kidnapping, and cultism, with a particular focus on dismantling the networks of criminal syndicates operating in the area.
"The operatives of the Anti-Cult Unit, in collaboration with local vigilance groups, while on patrol along Nnokwa-Nnewi Road, intercepted some armed robbery suspects," Ikenga stated. "On sighting the operatives, the hoodlums opened fire on the security team. The operatives returned fire, forcing the suspects to flee into the bush with bullet wounds. A search of the scene led to the recovery of one Beretta pistol, one pump-action gun, and six live cartridges. Two suspects were arrested in connection with the incident".
The statement further confirmed that the arrested suspects are currently in custody and are providing useful information to the police as investigations continue. The police have also intensified efforts to track down other members of the syndicate who escaped during the gun battle. The command has assured residents of the state of its commitment to protecting lives and property and has called on members of the public to provide credible information that could assist in the arrest of fleeing criminals.
The incident in Nnokwa is the latest in a series of security operations conducted by the Anambra State Police Command as it steps up efforts to combat crime across the state. In recent months, the command has recorded significant successes in its operations, including the arrest of several suspected cultists, armed robbers, and kidnappers, and the recovery of a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition. The command has also intensified its intelligence-gathering efforts, working closely with local communities and traditional rulers to identify and dismantle criminal networks.
The police have also renewed their call on residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies. The command has assured that all information provided would be treated with utmost confidentiality and that the police would continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all residents. The statement also urged the public to cooperate with security agencies in their efforts to maintain law and order in the state.
The recovery of the weapons and the arrest of the suspects represent a significant breakthrough in the fight against crime in Anambra State. The police have vowed to continue their operations until all criminal elements are flushed out of the state, and residents can go about their daily activities without fear of being attacked. The successful operation in Nnokwa is a testament to the professionalism and dedication of the officers and men of the Anambra State Police Command and serves as a warning to criminals that the long arm of the law will eventually catch up with them.
As investigations continue, the police have called on members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that the command is doing everything possible to ensure their safety and security. The police have also appealed to residents to support the efforts of security agencies by providing timely and useful information that could assist in the fight against crime in the state. The recovery of the weapons and the arrest of the suspects are a clear indication that the police are determined to rid Anambra State of criminal elements and restore peace and security to the state.
The public should expect more operations as the police continue to clamp down on criminal activities in the state. The police command in Anambra State remains committed to the protection of lives and property and is resolute in its determination to ensure that Anambra State remains safe and secure for all residents. The recovery of the weapons and the arrest of the suspects are a step in the right direction, but the police have made it clear that the fight against crime is a continuous process that requires the cooperation and support of all stakeholders.
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