By STANLEY NWANOSIKE

The Police Command in Enugu State says it has detained five male suspects for armed robbery and related offences in separate operations within the state.

In a statement on Sunday in Enugu, the command’s Spokesman, SP Daniel Ndukwe, said that police operatives recovered two firearms and seven ammunition from the suspects.

He said that on Oct. 29, at about 5:45p.m. operatives of the Distress Response Squad (DRS), intercepted a shuttle bus from Enugu to Abakaliki, during a stop-and-search operation along the Enugu–Abakaliki road.

“Upon searching, the occupant was found in unlawful possession of a cut-to-size locally made single-barrelled gun and was immediately detained.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect was travelling from Awka, Anambra State,” he said.

The spokesman said that also on Oct. 28, at about 10:30p.m., operatives of the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad, acting on credible intelligence, stormed New Garriki by Ukwu-Achara in Enugu, and detained another.

“A locally fabricated Beretta-like pistol loaded with one round of .9mm calibre ammunition was recovered from him,” he said.

Ndukwe also stated that on Oct. 20, at about 2p.m., police operatives in collaboration with Neighbourhood Watch members, raided a black spot at Amechi-Awkunanaw in Enugu.

He said that the operatives detained three suspects, while six live cartridges were recovered from them, adding that the suspects will be arraigned upon conclusion of investigations

According to him, the state’s Commissioner of Police, Mr Mamman Giwa, commended the command for a successful operation, and urged residents to be law-abiding, vigilant, and support the police especially during the ‘ember’ months”

“As a command, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to sustaining the fight against unrepentant criminals and ensuring the continued safety and security of residents of the state,” he said. (NAN)

In attendance at the proclamation ceremony were also traditional title holders and representatives of various kindreds in Oguta.

Also present were representatives of various churches, and prominent sons and daughters of the ancient town from across the world, among others. (NAN)