The Anambra State Police Command has intercepted a gunrunner who was conveying rifles meant for secessionists planning to enforce a sit-at-home exercise in the state on May 30. The success of the operation, according to the police, was made possible through intelligence gathered by the men of the command.
According to the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, “Anambra police operatives today 23/5/2024 by 11:30 am intercepted a gang member of a notorious gun-running syndicate in Onitsha, recovered seven brand new Jojef magnum pump action guns, in a concealed bag.”
He further stated, “This breakthrough is following the practical intelligence and tact-led Policing strategy of the Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam to frustrate criminal plans, especially on the intel (intelligence) received over time about planned attacks by unlawful group/secessionists to enforce illegal sit-at-home on 30th May 2024.”
The secessionist group, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), had recently declared May 30 as heroes day to honor the souls of those who departed during the civil war. The group warned that the day would be marked by a sit at home, and anyone found violating the order would face consequences. IPOB had also written to the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, requesting the cancellation of examinations and the proposed convocation scheduled for that day.
Describing how the gunrunner was intercepted, Ikenga, the police spokesperson, said, “The operatives laid ambush at the identified location at Creek Road, Onitsha, and the gunrunner, on sighting the Police, abandoned the bag and took to his heels.” The Explainer gathered that CP Itam has directed a manhunt for the suspect and his gang members, while calling on citizens to sustain the sharing of security information with the authorities, assuring that the police will continue to act on them.
