By Florencemary Nwabueze
ANAMBRA– A combined team of security operatives has arrested nine suspects and recovered a cache of weapons, including three AK-47 rifles, during a stop-and-search operation in Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.
According to Anambra state police command public relations officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the early morning operation, conducted on August 28, 2026, was led by the Joint Operation Base, Aguata, under the command of Chief Superintendent of Police Austin Elaigwu. The team comprised personnel from the Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service, and operatives of the Agunechemba Security Outfit.
The operation led to the interception of two vehicles – a custom-coloured Sienna and an ash-coloured Toyota RAV4 – at a checkpoint. Nine suspects, consisting of seven males and two females, were taken into custody.
During a thorough search of both vehicles, security operatives recovered three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action gun, charms, and other items deemed relevant to the ongoing investigation.
According to the police, preliminary interrogation of the suspects revealed they claimed to be security operatives based in a neighbouring state. However, investigators found their explanations regarding their identities, affiliations, possession of the firearms, and purpose of movement into Anambra State unsatisfactory.
Reacting to the incident, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, praised the operatives for their professionalism, noting that the successful recovery stemmed from intelligence-led policing and effective stop-and-search operations.
"The recovery was a result of intelligence-led policing and effective stop-and-search operations"
He further encourage the operatives to remain vigilant in safeguarding the communities.