Police
By Abayomi Grace
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man, Akpan Godwin, for possessing over 1,100 rounds of live ammunition in Nkpor, Onitsha. The arrest was made by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Akwuzu, on Friday, August 22, 2024, after receiving credible intelligence. According to the police, the suspect was found with a substantial cache of ammunition, sparking concerns about the proliferation of firearms in the region.
During interrogation, Godwin confessed to being involved in the illegal sale of ammunition and mentioned other individuals linked to the illicit trade. The police have launched a manhunt to apprehend his accomplices. The Anambra State Police Command has intensified operations to combat gunrunning and related crimes, particularly in Onitsha, where criminal networks have exploited the city’s dense markets and transport routes.
The police have assured residents of their commitment to curbing crime through intelligence-led operations. Anambra has been experiencing security challenges, including armed robbery, kidnapping, cult clashes, and attacks by non-state actors, which have been linked to the proliferation of firearms and ammunition. The public has largely praised the police for their swift action, with many expressing relief that such a large quantity of ammunition has been removed from circulation.
However, some voices have called for deeper investigations to dismantle the broader networks behind illegal arms trafficking in the region. The police will likely continue to face challenges in tackling the complex issue of gunrunning and related crimes, but this recent arrest demonstrates their commitment to keeping the public safe. As the investigation continues, the police hope to uncover more information about the suspect’s accomplices and the source of the ammunition.
