By Charles Maduka
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 25-year-old suspect in Awka following a shootout during the annual Imoka Cultural Festival, aimed at flushing out criminal elements using the event as cover.
Police spokesman SP Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed in a statement that the suspect, identified as Nasiru Samaila, was apprehended by officers from the Rapid Response Squad on Monday evening. A locally made Beretta pistol, one live ammunition, a knife, and substances suspected to be hard drugs were recovered from him.
According to Ikenga, the suspect opened fire while trying to evade arrest, prompting the officers to return fire, which resulted in a gunshot wound to his leg. One police officer also sustained an injury during the operation and is currently receiving treatment in the hospital.
The police stated that the operation followed intelligence reports indicating that some individuals were taking advantage of the festival atmosphere to engage in criminal activity and threaten public safety.
Ikenga noted that the command had intensified surveillance and raids on identified black spots in Awka and its surroundings to ensure a peaceful and crime-free celebration. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to law enforcement and public safety, adding that further updates would be provided in due course.
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