By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested a notorious armed robbery suspect, one Chinonso Nwakpo, 32, after a foiled armed robbery attempt near Holy Ghost axis of Ogui Road within Enugu metropolis.

The NSCDC operatives recovered locally made pistol and an expended cartridge.

Parading the suspect before newsmen on Monday in Enugu, the NSCDC Enugu State Command Public Relations Officer, SC Emmanuel Nwatu, said that Nwakpo was arrested on Sunday, March 24, by gallant officers conducting routine patrol in Ogui Road axis of Enugu.

Nwatu, who is a Superintendent of Corps, said that the notorious suspect hailed from Ohaukwu Local Government Atea of Ebonyl.

He said: "The suspect was intercepted while attempting to deprive a lady of her handset and other valuables.

"The swift response of the victim, who promptly raised an alarm and sought assistance, led to the apprehension of the suspect by vigilant NSCDC operatives conducting routine patrols in the vicinity.

"Upon apprehension, the suspect, Nwakpo, was found in possession of incriminating evidence, including a locally made pistel and an expended cartridge.

"During interrogation, the suspect mentioned an individual named Onyebuchi, currently at large, as the source of the firearm."

The NSCDC spokesman said further investigation uncovered that the suspect and his syndicate frequently operate within the Abakpa and Ogui axis.

According to him, it has been verified that both the suspect, Nwakpo, and his accomplices have been under surveillance by low enforcement agencies for several months within the state.

"In response to the arrest, the Commandant of NSCDC in Enugu State, Commandant Cyprian Otoibhi, has emphasized the commitment of the NSCDC Command to ensuring the safety and security of all residents within Enugu State.

"The state NSCDC boss also warnedcriminal elements that the full force of the law will be applied without hesitation.

"The Commandant urges citizens to remain vigilant and cooperative with security agencies by providing timely and actionable intelligence thereby facilitating the apprehension of criminals and the preservation of public safety.

"The state Commandant also lauded the NSCDC Commandant-General, Dr Ahmed Audi, for supporting the Enugu State Command in its operations, which is yielding results already," he said.