The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a suspected armed robber and recovered five firearms along with live ammunition in an intelligence-led operation aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, ASP Grace Iringe-Koko Agabe, disclosed the development in a statement on Monday, saying the suspect, identified as Austine Emenike, popularly known as “Oyibo,” was apprehended following credible intelligence gathered by police operatives.
According to the police, Emenike, who hails from Aluu community in Rivers State, was found in possession of one locally fabricated pistol, four single-barrel guns, and five live cartridges during the operation.
The command said preliminary investigations have linked the suspect to a broader criminal syndicate, with detectives now pursuing leads to identify and arrest other members of the group.
“Investigators are currently pursuing vital leads aimed at identifying and arresting other members of the gang, as well as uncovering the full scope of their activities,” the statement said.
Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, commended the officers involved in the operation, describing the arrest as a significant step in the command’s ongoing efforts to tackle violent crime.
He said the recovery of the weapons demonstrated the police’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing and protecting residents from criminal activities.
“This arrest and the recovery of these dangerous weapons underscore our resolve to proactively tackle violent crime and protect the law-abiding people of Rivers State. We will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations until criminal elements are completely rooted out,” Adepoju said.
The police commissioner also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, movements, or activities, stressing that timely and credible information from the public remains vital in combating crime.
The latest arrest comes just days after the Rivers State Police Command intercepted another suspect and recovered a pistol concealed inside a loaf of bread during a separate operation.
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