Anambra State Police Command has intensified efforts to rid the state of criminal elements by conducting a series of raids on identified black spots across Awka and surrounding areas ahead of the upcoming Imo-Awka masquerade festival.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, made this known in a statement issued on Tuesday in Awka.
Ikenga revealed that the operation, executed by officers from the Rapid Response Squad, Awka Sector, took place late in the evening on May 19 and resulted in the arrest of one suspect, 25-year-old Nasiru Samaila.
“The suspect in a bid to escape started shooting indiscriminately, but was subdued by the police team which fired him on his right leg.
“Unfortunately, one of the police operatives sustained a gunshot injury and has been taken to the hospital where he is currently responding to treatment,” Ikenga stated.
He added that the officers recovered several items from the suspect, including a locally made Berretta pistol, live ammunition, a knife, and a significant quantity of substances suspected to be hard drugs.
Explaining the rationale behind the operation, Ikenga emphasized that it was part of a larger strategy to ensure the festival is celebrated without disruptions.
“The Police Command in Anambra State, was acting on information received overtime on how miscreants, under the guise of celebrating the Imo-Awka masquerade festival, engaged in criminal activities.
“They become unruly, and make life unbearable for the good people of the state, especially residents and indigenes of Awka,’’ he said.
He further noted that the command is sustaining its discreet operations and raids on known trouble spots within Awka and its environs, reaffirming the police’s resolve to uphold the law and protect public safety.
