A joint security operation in Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, has led to the arrest of nine suspects and the recovery of three AK-47 rifles and other weapons.
The suspects, comprising seven males and two females, were apprehended in the early hours of Friday, August 28, 2026, after operatives of the Joint Operation Base, Aguata, intercepted two vehicles during a stop-and-search operation.
The operation was led by the police in collaboration with personnel of the 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.
According to the police, the security team stopped and searched a custom-coloured Toyota Sienna and an ash-coloured Toyota RAV4.
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During the search, the operatives recovered three AK-47 rifles, a pump-action gun, charms and other items considered relevant to the ongoing investigation.
The nine occupants of the vehicles were immediately taken into custody alongside the recovered items for questioning.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Command, SP Ikenga Tochukwu Anthony, said preliminary interrogation showed that the suspects claimed to be security operatives working in a neighbouring state.
However, the suspects reportedly failed to provide satisfactory explanations regarding their identities, affiliations, possession of the firearms and their reasons for entering Anambra State.
The police said investigations were continuing to establish the identities of the suspects, determine ownership of the recovered firearms and ascertain the purpose for which the weapons were being transported.
Authorities are also working to determine the actual mission of the suspects in Anambra State.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, commended the joint security team for its vigilance and successful interception.
The commissioner urged security personnel across the state to maintain vigilance and strengthen coordinated efforts aimed at preventing criminal activities.
He described the recovery as a significant achievement arising from intelligence-led policing and effective stop-and-search operations.
He further reaffirmed the command’s commitment to deepening cooperation among security agencies to safeguard residents and visitors across Anambra State.
The nine suspects remain in custody while investigations into the incident continue.
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