A joint operation by Anambra State security outfit, Agunechemba, and the Police has led to the killing of three suspected members of an armed criminal gang during a raid on a hideout in Aguata Local Government Area.
The operation, carried out on Tuesday night following intelligence reports, resulted in the recovery of sophisticated weapons, including a Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG), AK-47 rifles, a white Hilux van allegedly used by the gang, as well as charms and other items linked to criminal activities.
According to Agunechemba’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Nweke Nweke, the gang had been connected to several violent crimes across Anambra South Senatorial District, including the deadly attack on the convoy of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s Chief of Staff, Mr. Ben Nwankwo, which claimed four lives earlier this month.
Security operatives reportedly tracked the suspects to the Isuofia-Igboukwu axis of Aguata after extensive intelligence gathering. The suspects allegedly opened fire while attempting to evade arrest, leading to a gun battle during which three gang members were neutralised. Several others escaped with gunshot wounds.
Authorities confirmed that no security operative was injured during the operation.
The security outfit further alleged that the gang disguised themselves in uniforms resembling those of federal security agencies to carry out kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes.
State security officials have described the operation as a major breakthrough in the ongoing fight against criminality in Anambra, while efforts continue to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
