A joint security force in Anambra has arrested nine suspects and recovered firearms during a stop-and-search operation at a checkpoint in Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area of the state.

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra, Nnanna Ama, disclosed this in a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, on Friday in Awka.

Mr Ama said the joint patrol, comprising police personnel and other security agencies, intercepted two vehicles during a stop-and-search operation at a checkpoint in Isuofia, Aguata LGA, Anambra, in the early hours of August 28.

“The vehicles, a custom-coloured Sienna and an ash-coloured Toyota RAV4, were intercepted, leading to the arrest of nine suspects comprising seven males and two females.

“A thorough search of the vehicles led to the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action gun, charms and other items considered relevant to the ongoing investigation,” he said.

Mr Ama said the suspects and the recovered items have been taken into custody for questioning and further investigation.

The CP said that the joint patrol force, led by Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Austin Elaigwu, comprised personnel of the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army, and State Security Service (SSS).

Others included the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigeria Immigration Service, and operatives of the local vigilante group, Agunechemba.

Mr Ama said that during preliminary interrogation, the suspects reportedly claimed to be security operatives based in a neighbouring state.

He said the suspects, however, were unable to provide satisfactory explanations of their identities, affiliations, how they came into possession of the firearms, or their mission in Anambra.

The CP commended the operatives for a job well done and encouraged them to remain vigilant, noting that the recovery resulted from intelligence-led policing and effective stop-and-search operations. 

(NAN)