A police-led joint security operation in Anambra State has foiled a suspected criminal operation following the interception of two vehicles and the arrest of nine suspects at Isuofia in Aguata Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, conducted in the early hours of Friday, August 28, 2026, also led to the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action gun, charms and other items said to be relevant to an ongoing investigation.
The suspects, comprising seven males and two females, were arrested by the Joint Operation Base, Aguata, led by the Chief Superintendent of Police, CSP Austin Elaigwu, in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service and operatives of the Agunechemba Security Outfit.
The joint team intercepted a custom-coloured Sienna vehicle and an ash-coloured Toyota RAV4 during a stop-and-search operation at a security checkpoint in Isuofia.
A thorough search of the vehicles, according to the police, uncovered the firearms, charms and other items, prompting the security operatives to take the suspects and recovered exhibits into custody for questioning and further investigation.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspects reportedly claimed to be security operatives from a neighbouring state. However, the police said they could not provide satisfactory explanations concerning their identities, affiliations, possession of the firearms or the purpose of their movement into Anambra.
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, commended the joint security team for the successful operation, describing the recovery as a product of intelligence-led policing and effective stop-and-search operations.
The CP urged security personnel across the state to remain vigilant and sustain collaboration in order to prevent criminal elements from using Anambra as a safe haven or operational base.
The police said investigation into the case is ongoing, while efforts are being intensified to establish the identities and activities of the suspects and determine the circumstances surrounding their possession of the firearms.
The Command’s spokesperson, SP Ikenga Tochukwu Anthony, disclosed this in a statement issued in Awka on Friday.
