Forty-two locally-made single barrel, six double-barrel and three pump action guns have been recovered from gunrunners in Delta State, as police operatives arrested 58-year-old suspected ring leader, Peter Okolie, and nine (9) others.
Also recovered were two filing machines and a working tool box containing fabricated materials.
All the arrested suspects were said to be from Agba Quarters Emuhu, in Ika North-East Local Government Area of the state.
Confirming the suspects’ arrest in a statement on Wednesday, November 2, 2022, the command’s spokesman, DSP Bright Edafe, made it known that it was sequel to credible intelligence received about a syndicate which specialises in manufacturing locally-made guns and other arms.
Based on the information, the state Commissioner of Police, Ari Muhammed Ali, directed the State Anti-Cult Unit (SACU) to carry out intensive raids in the said area.
“The team led by the Commander SACU, SP Christopher Igbaji, on October 31, raided the hideout in Emuhu Community, Ika North-East LGA, during which the exhibits were recovered.
“The suspects are in custody and investigation is ongoing,” the PPRO said.
CP Ali, who commended the team for the successful operation, assured all residents in the state that the Command would not relent in the fight against crime and criminality.
Noting the importance of proactive and community policing in the fight against crime, the police commissioner enjoined all to continue to partner with the command by giving useful, timely and credible information that would help the command to nip crime in the bud.
