Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command have arrested 15 suspects and recovered a firearm, ammunition and suspected illicit drugs during a raid on identified criminal hideouts in Ozalla community, Nkanu West Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued on February 19, 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the operation was carried out in the early hours of February 16 by officers attached to the Command’s Crack Tactical Squad.
“Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command attached to the Crack Tactical Squad, in the early hours of 16th February 2026, acted on credible intelligence and raided identified criminal hotspots at Four Corners area of Ozalla community in Nkanu West Local Government Area,” Ndukwe said.
He disclosed that fifteen suspects — nine males and six females — were apprehended during the operation.
“Fifteen (15) suspects, comprising nine (9) males and six (6) females, were arrested during the operation. Two polythene bags filled with dried weed suspected to be Indian hemp were recovered from the suspects. A further search of the area led to the recovery of a locally fabricated pistol loaded with one live cartridge,” he stated.
The police spokesman added that the suspects are currently undergoing screening to determine their level of culpability.
“The suspects are currently undergoing thorough screening. Those found not culpable will be released, while those found culpable will be duly investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” Ndukwe said.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has directed intensified operations across the state.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, has directed supervisory officers in charge of operations and investigations to sustain the Command’s proactive crime-fighting strategy by identifying and dismantling criminal hideouts, as well as arresting and prosecuting offenders. He also urged residents to continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information,” the statement added.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining public safety and dismantling criminal networks across Enugu State.
