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ENUGU, NIGERIA — In a major breakthrough in the fight against violent crime and insecurity, security agencies in Enugu State have arrested six notorious criminal suspects who had been on the state's security watchlist, while also recovering a large cache of sophisticated weapons and ammunition during coordinated security operations.
The successful operation, which security authorities described as a significant victory against criminal networks operating within and around the state, led to the seizure of military-grade weapons and the apprehension of suspects linked to several high-profile security breaches.
Governor Peter Mbah disclosed the development on Friday while inspecting the recovered arms and ammunition at the Enugu State headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The governor was received by the State Director of the DSS, Mr. Humphery Ohikhuare; the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa; the Garrison Commander of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Garba Suru; and other senior security officials.
Security operatives recovered an extensive arsenal of weapons and ammunition, including:
Seventeen AK-47 rifles
One General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG)
One rocket-propelled rifle
One tear-gas launcher
Twelve AK-47 magazines
Two hand grenades
Three tear-gas canisters
A total of 1,071 rounds of ammunition
The ammunition recovered consisted of:
323 rounds of special ammunition
, 270 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 478 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition
Additional items recovered included various security uniforms and four military-style lanyards allegedly used by the suspects during criminal operations.
Speaking during the inspection, Governor Mbah revealed that the arrested suspects were among those wanted in connection with deadly attacks that claimed the lives of security personnel in the state.
The governor recalled a major security incident that occurred in December last year, during which several security officers lost their lives while carrying out their duties.
"Today represents the triumph of vigilance, dedication, professionalism, and the unwavering commitment of our security agencies," Mbah said.
"Following the tragic attack that claimed the lives of some of our officers last year, the state government placed bounties on the perpetrators. While some suspects had previously been apprehended, those presented today were among the individuals who had remained at large."
He stressed that the latest arrests demonstrated the determination of security agencies to pursue criminal suspects regardless of how long it takes.
"We have always maintained that Enugu State has no place for criminals. If you commit any crime here, no matter how long it takes, we will identify you, track you down, and ensure that you face the full weight of the law."
Governor Mbah attributed the success of the operation to the state's sustained investment in modern security infrastructure, technology-driven surveillance systems, and strengthened collaboration among security agencies.
According to him, the achievements recorded in recent months have validated the government's decision to prioritize security as a foundation for economic growth and social stability.
"It is reassuring to know that the substantial investments we have made in the security sector are yielding positive results. The combination of advanced technology and the dedication of our security personnel continues to help us identify and dismantle criminal networks before they can inflict harm on innocent citizens," he stated.
The governor added that many successful security interventions often go unnoticed because criminal activities are prevented before they occur.
"In many cases, the public never hears about these operations because crimes are intercepted and neutralized before they happen. That is a testament to both our technological capabilities and the professionalism of our security personnel."
Issuing a strong warning to criminal elements still operating within the state, Mbah said Enugu would remain hostile territory for criminals.
"To every criminal hiding within or attempting to infiltrate Enugu State, let this serve as a clear warning: there is no hiding place for you. We will continue to deploy every available resource to identify, apprehend, and prosecute those who threaten the peace and security of our people."
The governor also urged landlords and property owners across the state to conduct thorough background checks on prospective tenants before renting out properties.
He reiterated that property owners could face legal consequences if their premises are used for violent criminal activities.
"The law places a responsibility on landlords to know who occupies their properties. Ignorance is not an excuse. We will continue to prosecute property owners who fail to exercise due diligence, and any property linked to violent criminal activities will face appropriate legal action, including demolition where necessary."
Governor Mbah also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting critical security reforms across the country.
As Chairman of the Presidential Committee on the Revamp of Security Training Institutions, Mbah disclosed that the federal government had released funds for the rehabilitation and modernization of training facilities for security agencies nationwide.
According to him, the initiative will enhance professionalism, improve operational effectiveness, and promote standardized security training across Nigeria.
"We have received the necessary funding to rebuild and modernize security training institutions across the country. This will significantly improve the quality of training and strengthen the operational capabilities of our security agencies."
The governor further welcomed the recent passage of the State Police Bill by the House of Representatives, describing it as a major step toward improving grassroots security management.
He argued that state policing would enable sub-national governments to take greater responsibility for securing their territories and responding swiftly to local security challenges.
"The passage of the State Police Bill is a commendable development. It represents a practical solution to many of the security challenges confronting the country and will empower states to take greater responsibility for protecting lives and property within their jurisdictions."
The latest operation is being viewed as one of the most significant security successes recorded in Enugu State in recent times, reinforcing growing confidence in the state's security architecture and ongoing efforts to eliminate violent crime.
Security officials say investigations are continuing and that further arrests may be made as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating within the region.
For residents of Enugu State, the arrests and recovery of sophisticated weapons serve as a strong signal that security agencies remain committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property while maintaining pressure on criminal elements seeking to destabilize the state.
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