The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a 32-year-old man allegedly in possession of an illegal firearm during a routine stop-and-search operation along the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway.
The command's spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed in a statement on Monday that the suspect was apprehended on July 3 at Ugwuoba in Oji River Local Government Area, close to the Enugu-Anambra boundary.
According to Ndukwe, officers conducting the security operation discovered a concealed locally made double-barrelled pistol during a search of the suspect.
Initial investigations revealed that the suspect had boarded a Toyota Sienna commercial vehicle from Solution Park in Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, and was travelling to Enugu before security operatives intercepted him.
He noted that detectives are continuing investigations to trace the origin of the firearm and determine whether the suspect has links to other criminal activities. The suspect will be charged to court after investigations are concluded.
The police spokesperson also recalled that the same tactical team made a similar arrest just days earlier, on June 28, when another suspect travelling in a tricycle was intercepted with a firearm during a border security operation.
He said the back-to-back recoveries demonstrate the command's sustained efforts to strengthen border surveillance, prevent the influx of illegal weapons, and enhance public safety across Enugu State.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Mamman Giwa, praised the officers for their alertness and professionalism. He assured residents that the command would continue to intensify intelligence-driven policing and border security operations.
The commissioner also encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and support law enforcement agencies by providing prompt and credible information that will aid in tackling crime throughout the state.
