Amanze Chinonye
Security operatives in Enugu State have arrested six wanted suspects allegedly linked to the murder of police officers and other violent crimes, marking a significant breakthrough in efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating in the state, Prime Business Africa reports.
The arrests, announced by Governor Peter Mbah on Friday, followed intelligence-led operations that also yielded a substantial cache of sophisticated weapons and ammunition recovered from the suspects.
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Speaking during an inspection of the recovered arms at the headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Enugu, Mbah said the suspects had been on the run after participating in attacks on security personnel and other acts of violence across the state.
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Among the weapons displayed were 17 AK-47 rifles, a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), a rocket-propelled rifle, a tear-gas launcher, 12 AK-47 magazines, two hand grenades and three tear-gas canisters. Security agencies also recovered 1,071 rounds of ammunition, including special rounds and 7.62mm NATO ammunition.
The governor was received by senior security officials, including the Enugu State Director of the DSS, Humphery Ohikhuare, Commissioner of Police Mamman Giwa, and Brigadier General Garba Suru, Garrison Commander of the Nigerian Army’s 82 Division.
Mbah linked the suspects to the killing of security operatives during attacks that shook the state late last year, noting that the government had earlier placed rewards on those responsible and launched an intensive manhunt to track them down.
He said several suspects connected to the attacks had already been apprehended, while the latest arrests involved individuals who had managed to evade security forces until now.
According to the governor, the successful operation underscores the effectiveness of the state’s investment in surveillance systems, intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration.
He maintained that Enugu would remain hostile territory for criminal elements, stressing that perpetrators of violent crimes would continue to be pursued regardless of how long it takes.
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Mbah described the arrests as a measure of justice for slain officers whose sacrifices, he said, had not been forgotten.
He added that the state was increasingly recording successes in identifying and neutralising criminal gangs before they could carry out attacks, attributing the gains to a combination of technology-driven security initiatives and the dedication of security personnel.
The governor also issued a fresh warning to landlords and property owners, urging them to conduct proper background checks on prospective tenants. He reiterated that the government would not relent in prosecuting individuals found to be aiding criminal activities or using their properties as safe havens for violent offenders.
On broader security reforms, Mbah commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting ongoing efforts to strengthen policing structures and improve security training nationwide.
He noted that the Federal Government had released funds for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of security training institutions, a move he said would enhance professionalism and standardise training across the country’s security services.
The latest arrests are expected to bolster ongoing security operations in Enugu as authorities intensify efforts to root out armed groups and restore public confidence in safety across the state.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
