The Enugu State Police Command says it has arrested 120 suspects for various offences ranging from kidnapping to armed robbery, conspiracy, murder and unauthorised possession of firearms within the state.
The state Commissioner of Police, Lawal Abubakar, disclosed this on Thursday in his maiden media briefing in Enugu.
Abubakar assumed office on August 10, 2021.
Abubakar said that the command, in the period under review, recovered 34 firearms of different makes as well as 50 ammunition of different calibers.
He said that the summary of offences committed included: unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, arson, vandalism, stealing, defilement and child trafficking.
The Commissioner said that the command carried out a total of 14 successful rescues of kidnapped victims in the state within the period under review.
The state police boss said the command recovered a total of 41 vehicles, tricycles and motorcycles.
He said: “As a matter of fact, within these past four months of assumption of duty in the state, I have come to understand and appreciate the security dynamics of the state.
“This has made it possible for me and the management team to keep evolving appropriate strategies towards tackling existing and emerging security challenges in the state, which has brought about some of the operational breakthroughs we have so far recorded.”
Abubakar said that the breakthroughs would not have been possible if not for the collaborative support from sister security agencies, Neighbourhood Watch Group and Forest Guards.
He said: “Security stakeholders and law-abiding citizens were also very helpful.
“Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has truly shown that he is a worthy Chief Security Officer of the state as his financial and material supports have immensely contributed to these breakthroughs.
“Also, police operatives directly involved in the breakthroughs have shown a high sense of resilience and commitment while carrying out these operations would not be left out.
“I sincerely thank and appreciate them all.”
The Commissioner reassured the command’s commitment to collaborate with other security agencies and stakeholders to put in place adequate crime prevention measures and ensure a hitch-free Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Abubakar said: “It also my earnest belief that with the support of all and sundry, we will have a peaceful celebration and move into the New Year on a sound security note.
“I, therefore, call on the good people of Enugu State to remain vigilant, law-abiding and supportive, by sharing credible information on intelligence, as well as generally report suspected criminals and their activities to the police.”
