A joint security operation in Anambra State has led to the arrest of nine suspects and the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, a pump-action gun, charms and other items.
The operation was carried out in the early hours of Friday, August 28, 2026, by the Joint Operation Base, Aguata, during a stop-and-search exercise at Isuofia in Aguata Local Government Area.
The team, led by CSP Austin Elaigwu, comprised personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service and operatives of the Agunechemba Security Outfit.
According to the Anambra State Police Command, operatives intercepted a custom-coloured Sienna and an ash-coloured Toyota RAV4 at the checkpoint.
A search of the vehicles resulted in the arrest of seven males and two females, while the security team recovered three AK-47 rifles, one pump-action gun, charms and other items.
The Police said the suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue into the source of the firearms and the circumstances surrounding their movement into Anambra State.
The Command said the suspects claimed during preliminary interrogation to be security operatives from a neighbouring state but allegedly failed to provide satisfactory explanations regarding their identities, affiliations and possession of the firearms.
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, commended the joint security team for the interception and recovery.
He urged security personnel to sustain intelligence-led operations, effective stop-and-search measures and proactive policing across the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu Anthony, who disclosed the development in a statement on Friday, said the operation underscores the importance of collaboration among security agencies in tackling the movement of illegal firearms and other criminal activities.
The Command assured residents that security operatives would continue to intensify efforts to protect lives and property across Anambra State.
