Security agencies in Enugu State have apprehended six notorious criminals on a security watch list, recovering a significant cache of arms and ammunition during a joint operation. Governor Peter Mbah inspected the seized weapons at the Enugu State headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Friday, confirming that the suspects were involved in various deadly security breaches in the state.
Recovered Items
The operation yielded 17 AK-47 rifles, one General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), one rocket-propelled rifle, one tear-gas gun, 12 AK-47 magazines, two hand-held grenades, three tear-gas canisters, and 1,071 rounds of ammunition. The ammunition included 323 special rounds, 270 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and 478 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. Additionally, various uniforms and four lanyards were recovered.
Governor’s Remarks
Governor Mbah, accompanied by the State Director of DSS, Mr. Humphery Ohikhuare; the state Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa; the Garrison Commander of 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. Garba Suru; and other senior security officials, stated that the state's investment in modern security infrastructure is yielding results.
He said: “First of all, I would like to acknowledge and salute the gallantry of our security agents. What we are witnessing here today is the triumph of vigilance, the triumph of hard work, and the triumph of dedication to duty.”
Recalling an incident in December last year that claimed the lives of some officers, the governor noted that the state government had placed bounties on the criminals. “We have before now been able to apprehend some of the criminals who participated in that heinous act. The people we have here today are those who have been on the run. But we have always said in Enugu State that we have no room for criminals. And if you commit crime here, no matter how long it takes, we must identify you; we must get you and we must ensure that you are brought to justice.”
He expressed satisfaction that the sacrifices of fallen officers have not been in vain, as the chapter of these criminals is closing. He also highlighted the importance of technology and dedicated personnel in achieving security successes.
Warning to Criminals and Property Owners
Governor Mbah issued a stern warning to remaining criminal elements: “To the criminals out there, we do not have room for you.” He also urged property owners to conduct background checks on prospective tenants, warning that the government will prosecute erring landlords and demolish properties linked to violent crimes.
Support for State Police
As chairman of the Presidential Committee on the Revamp of Security Training Institutions, Mbah praised President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to security, including support for state police and the rehabilitation of security training facilities. He noted that funds have been received to reconstruct training institutions, ensuring standardized training nationwide. He also commended the House of Representatives for passing the State Police Bill, which he believes will help eliminate the tragedy of the commons and enhance security within state borders.
