- Many of the suspects have already been charged
The Enugu State Police Command announced on Thursday the arrest of 123 suspects between July and August 2024, connected to various crimes such as murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, rape, vandalism, theft, illegal possession of firearms, and cultism.
During a press conference at the Command’s Headquarters, the State Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, detailed the operations that led to the arrests across the state. Numerous incriminating exhibits were seized, including firearms, ammunition, and stolen vehicles.
Uzuegbu reported that many of the suspects have already been charged and are in custody at the Nigerian Correctional Custodial Centres. He commended residents for providing crucial information to the police and urged them to continue supplying timely and actionable tips to improve security.
In a summary of the operations, Uzuegbu disclosed that 19 victims of kidnapping and abduction were rescued during the period. The police recovered 15 AK-47 and assault rifles, 25 pump-action guns, 35 other firearms, 710 rounds of live ammunition, 187 live cartridges, 17 motor vehicles, 11 tricycles, and 8 motorcycles.
Regarding recent security concerns, Uzuegbu confirmed the attack on a police checkpoint that resulted in the death of four officers but refuted rumors of a kidnapping near the Enugu State College of Health Technology in Oji-River. He clarified that the four individuals allegedly kidnapped on August 14, 2024, three of whom were not students, have all been rescued and reunited with their families. The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation.
Additionally, Uzuegbu addressed the spread of false information related to the incident, noting that the person responsible for the panic-inducing news has been traced and has since apologized.
The Commissioner also highlighted the successful prevention of an attempted attack by IPOB/ESN militants on August 18, 2024, at 4-Corner along the Enugu/Port Harcourt Expressway. The militants, disguised in security uniforms and driving a stolen Lexus 350 Jeep, opened fire on a police patrol team but were repelled by the operatives.
The Enugu State Police Command continues to intensify efforts to maintain peace and security across the state.