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A police-led joint security team has arrested nine suspects and recovered three AK-47 rifles, a pump-action gun, charms and other incriminating items during a stop-and-search operation in Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The operation was carried out in the early hours of Thursday by operatives of the Joint Operation Base, Aguata, led by Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Austin Elaigwu.
The security team, comprising personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service and the Agunechemba Security Outfit, intercepted two vehicles at a checkpoint.
The vehicles, a custom-coloured Toyota Sienna and an ash-coloured Toyota RAV4, were stopped and searched, leading to the arrest of seven male and two female suspects.
Police said the search uncovered three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action gun, charms and other items believed to be relevant to an ongoing investigation.
The suspects and the recovered exhibits were immediately taken into custody for interrogation and further investigation.
According to the police, the suspects claimed during preliminary questioning to be security operatives from a neighbouring state. However, they allegedly failed to provide satisfactory explanations regarding their identities, official affiliations, possession of the firearms and the purpose of their movement into Anambra State.
Commending the operatives for the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, praised the teamwork and professionalism displayed by the joint security personnel.
The police commissioner described the seizure as a product of intelligence-led policing and effective stop-and-search operations, urging security operatives to remain vigilant in their efforts to keep the state safe.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said investigations are ongoing to establish the identities of the suspects and determine the circumstances surrounding the recovered weapons.
