Police arrest 65-year-old man with 1,100 rounds of ammunition

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The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 65-year-old man, identified as Akpan Godwin, after he was allegedly caught with over 1,100 rounds of live ammunition in Onitsha, the bustling commercial city of the state.

The arrest was carried out on Friday, August 22, by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) attached to Akwuzu Division. According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the operation was based on credible intelligence that linked the suspect to the illegal trafficking of arms and ammunition within the state.

“Police operatives acting on credible intelligence arrested one Akpan Godwin, aged 65 years, in possession of 1,100 rounds of live ammunition at Nkpor, near Onitsha,” Ikenga disclosed in a statement made available to journalists on Saturday, August 23.

During preliminary interrogation, Godwin reportedly confessed to his involvement in the illicit sale of ammunition.

He was also said to have revealed the names of other individuals allegedly connected to the underground arms supply network.

Ikenga explained that the command has immediately launched a manhunt for his collaborators, stressing that no effort would be spared in dismantling the criminal ring fueling insecurity in Anambra State.

“Meanwhile, the operatives have stepped up investigations and intensified the manhunt to uncover and apprehend all accomplices connected to this unlawful trade,” he assured.

The police spokesman noted that the arrest represents a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal firearms and ammunition in the state.

He emphasized that the circulation of unlicensed weapons remains a serious security threat, often linked to cult clashes, violent crimes, and armed robbery incidents across Anambra.

He further urged residents to remain vigilant and to continue partnering with security agencies by providing timely and actionable intelligence.

“The Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.

“We call on citizens to cooperate with us by reporting suspicious activities around them. Together, we can rid our communities of criminals and their sponsors,” Ikenga added.

Anambra State, particularly commercial hubs such as Onitsha and Nnewi, has in recent years witnessed a rise in cases involving illegal arms and ammunition.

Security experts believe that the easy availability of weapons has contributed to incidents of violent crimes and communal clashes.

The police command has therefore intensified surveillance operations, with special units such as the Rapid Response Squad playing a frontline role in tracking down armed gangs, dismantling criminal networks, and intercepting illegal arms shipments.

While the suspect remains in custody, investigations are ongoing to trace the supply chain, identify the sources of the recovered ammunition, and bring all those involved in the syndicate to justice.

Authorities have assured that the outcome of the investigation will be made public in due course.

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