The Enugu State Government has announced the arrest of six suspected criminals linked to major security incidents in the state, following a joint operation by security agencies that also led to the recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition.
Governor Peter Mbah disclosed this on Friday while inspecting the recovered weapons at the Department of State Services headquarters in Enugu.
Items recovered during the operation include 17 AK-47 rifles, a General Purpose Machine Gun, a rocket launcher, a tear-gas gun, 12 AK-47 magazines, two hand grenades, three tear-gas canisters and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition. Security operatives also recovered military-style uniforms and lanyards.
The governor, who was received by top security officials in the state, described the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against crime and commended security agencies for their dedication and professionalism.
Mbah noted that some of the suspects had long been on the state’s security watch list and were allegedly connected to violent crimes, including attacks that led to the death of security personnel.
He recalled that the state government had earlier placed bounties on some of the suspects following deadly attacks on security operatives, adding that while some had previously been arrested, the latest operation led to the capture of others who had remained at large.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making Enugu unsafe for criminals, stressing that anyone involved in criminal activities would eventually be identified and brought to justice.
According to him, the recent successes recorded by security agencies are a result of the state’s investment in security infrastructure, technology and strong collaboration among security institutions.
He assured residents that the government would continue to prioritise their safety and maintain pressure on criminal elements operating within the state.
Mbah also warned criminals still hiding in the state to leave or face the consequences of their actions.
He further urged landlords and property owners to carry out proper background checks on prospective tenants, warning that the government would not hesitate to prosecute landlords or demolish properties linked to violent crimes.
The governor also praised ongoing efforts to strengthen security across the country and welcomed recent legislative moves aimed at improving policing and security management at the state level.
According to him, greater involvement of states in security matters would help tackle local security challenges more effectively and enhance the protection of lives and property.