By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Police operatives in Aba, Abia State, have arrested two suspects for allegedly possessing a firearm and ammunition. The officers intercepted the suspects during a stop-and-search operation on June 12, 2026, along Azikiwe Road by Kent Road. The operation targeted illegal weapons and violent crimes. Police recovered a locally made pistol, ammunition, and other items from the suspects before transferring the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
Suspects Arrested During Routine Operation
The suspects, identified as David Emmanuel, 33, and Joel Emeka, 25, were travelling in an auto rickshaw when officers attached to the Nediegoro Divisional Police Headquarters stopped the vehicle.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, one occupant escaped immediately after the officers intercepted the tricycle. However, the police arrested the remaining two suspects at the scene.
Police Recover Firearm and Ammunition
During a search, officers recovered a locally made pistol, one live round of ammunition, live cartridges, a small black bag, and the tricycle used for transportation.
Chinaka said the police took all recovered items into custody as exhibits.
She added that investigators transferred the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.
“A search conducted on them led to the recovery of the above-listed exhibits. The suspects are in police custody and investigation is currently ongoing at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and will be charged to court on completion of investigation,” she said.
Investigation Continues
The police confirmed that the suspects remain in custody. Investigators will charge them to court after completing their investigation.
Meanwhile, authorities continue efforts to identify and arrest the suspect who escaped during the operation.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Public Safety
The Abia State Police Command reiterated its commitment to tackling crime across the state.
Chinaka urged residents to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could help prevent and detect crimes.
Crackdown on Illegal Firearms Intensifies
The arrest forms part of the command’s ongoing campaign against illegal firearms and violent crimes.
In recent months, security agencies have intensified intelligence-led raids and stop-and-search operations across Aba and Umuahia.
The operations aim to curb armed robbery, cult-related violence, and other criminal activities while improving public safety.
