Police in Anambra State have smashed a notorious armed robbery gang, which has been tormenting members of the public in Okpoko, Obosi, Atani, Oba and environs for several months.

The Command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement yesterday, said the feat was made possible by the collaboration between the Police in Ogbaru Division and community vigilante in the area.

He said items recovered in the robbers’ hideouts, include: one pump action semi-automatic gun, two locally-made pistols, and five stolen tricycles.

Ikenga said the breakthrough was recorded when one Jekwu, a notorious gangster, and leader of the gang was arrested on July 11.

He said: “After interrogation, the suspect provided clues, which were followed up and surveillance mounted on other members of the gang, culminating in the arrest of another member as he attempted to evacuate the gang’s arms from Jekwu’s hideout.

“One pump action semi-automatic gun and two locally-made pistols were recovered, while the second gang member was also taken into custody.

“Further interrogation led to recovery of five stolen tricycles with registration numbers: NSH 156 VU, NNE 622 UW, NSH 203 VU,

UKP 349 UV and UML 359 WV.”

Meanwhile, Anambra State Commissioner of Police (CP), Aderemi Adeoye, has commended various vigilantegroups, who partner with thepolice to provide security for people in the state.

He called on owners of the recovered tricycles to come forward with proof of ownership to collect them.

Adeoye also said the police have embarked on a formidable patrol of the state with the Police Mobile Force and Police Counter Terrorist Unit.

The patrol commenced last week Friday, covering Enugwu Ukwu, Abagana, Eziowelle, Ojoto, Oba, Ichi, Nnewi, Ichida, Igbo Ukwu, Ekwulobia, Nanka, Agulu and Nise, terminating in Awka the state capital. (The Guardian)