Police arrest robbery syndicate, arrest one, recover guns

The Nigerian Police Force’s Enugu State Police Command says it has apprehended an armed robbery gang and arrested a suspect, identified as Chinenye Nwadike, aged 32.

A statement from the command’s spokesman, Daniel Ndukwe, on Sunday said five firearms and 374 live ammunition had been recovered from the suspect.

According to the statement, the suspect was arrested Friday evening by agents of Octopus Squad ‘B’ commando as they carried out an intelligence-led sting operation on the Diamond Estate axis of Onitsha Road Enugu.

Ndukwe said the criminal gang was known to commit heinous crimes in Enugu metropolitan area under the vague name of ‘Unknown Gunmen’.

The suspect was a resident of Mbaitoli in Imo state, according to the statement, but lived in Ndiagha, Amechi-Uwani Enugu, adding that other gang members escaped with gunshot wounds during the operation.

“The team found a yellow-colored tricycle in which the suspects were operating, which was previously reported to have been snatched at gunpoint by the gang in the evening hours of the same date, at Eke-Otu Amechi-Awkunanaw Enugu.

“Other pieces recovered include: two assault rifles, one each made in England and a locally manufactured Pump Action pistol, a double-barrelled shotgun, 349 7.62mm caliber live ammunition, 25 live rounds, a Monday hammer, a battle ax head, four machetes, two bottles of six follower perfume and items suspected to be amulets,” the statement read in part.

While Police Commissioner Ahmed Ammani praised the officers for carrying out the crime prevention measures of the command to achieve the operational breakthrough, the PPRO said the CP also instructed them to remain steadfast and determined and to ensure that the fleeing members of the gang is fished out.

“The CP urges citizens of the state to remain law-abiding and vigilant and to continue to assist the command with credible information and/or intelligence needed to deal with unrepentant criminals in the state.

“Such information/intelligence can be provided at the nearest police station; or by calling the command’s emergency helplines on: 08032003702, 08075390883, 08098880172 or 08086671202; or by sending an email to [email protected]’ said Ndukwe.