Security Operatives Intercept 2 Vehicles, Recover 3 AK-47s, Pump-Action Gun in Soludo’s Hometown

The security Joint Operation Base, Aguata, on Friday intercepted two vehicles and recovered three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action gun, charms, and other items in Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, the hometown of Governor Charles Soludo.

According to a statement issued by the spokesman of the Anambra State Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the operation was led by the Chief Superintendent of Police, CSP Austin Elaigwu, in the early hours of Friday, in collaboration with other security agencies.

The agencies involved included the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service, as well as operatives of the Agunechemba Security Outfit.

According to Ikenga, the team intercepted two vehicles during a stop-and-search operation at a checkpoint in Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, leading to the recovery of the firearms and other items.

He said 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.

He said 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.

According to him, the suspects and the recovered items were immediately taken into custody for questioning and further investigation.

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

However, he said they were unable to provide satisfactory explanations regarding their identities, affiliations, possession of the firearms, and the purpose of their movement into Anambra State.

The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, commended the operatives for a job well done and encouraged them to remain vigilant, noting that the recovery was the result of intelligence-led policing and effective stop-and-search operations.