Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has announced a major breakthrough in the state’s fight against violent crime, revealing the arrest of six notorious suspects and the recovery of a large cache of sophisticated weapons and ammunition during coordinated security operations across the state.
The governor, who inspected the recovered arms at the Enugu State headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Friday, said the suspects were among criminals on the state’s security watchlist and had been linked to several deadly attacks in Enugu.
The recovered items include 17 AK-47 rifles, a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), a rocket-propelled rifle, a tear-gas gun, 12 AK-47 magazines, two hand grenades, three tear-gas canisters, and 1,071 rounds of ammunition. Security operatives also seized various military-style uniforms and other operational materials.
Mbah, who was received by the DSS State Director, Mr. Humphery Ohikhuare, Commissioner of Police CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, Garrison Commander of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Garba Suru, and other senior security officials, described the operation as a victory for vigilance, technology, and effective inter-agency collaboration.
“First of all, I would like to acknowledge and salute the gallantry of our security agents. What we are witnessing here today is the triumph of vigilance, the triumph of hard work, and the triumph of dedication to duty,” he said.
The governor recalled the killing of security personnel during an attack in December last year and noted that the latest arrests had brought security agencies closer to closing the chapter on that incident.
“Recall that sometime in December last year, we had an incident that took the lives of some of our officers. If you also cast your mind back at that time, the state government actually placed bounties on the heads of the criminals.
“We have before now been able to apprehend some of the criminals who participated in that heinous act. The people we have here today are those who have been on the run.
“But we have always said in Enugu State that we have no room for criminals. And if you commit crime here, no matter how long it takes, we must identify you, we must get you, and we must ensure that you are brought to justice.”
Mbah added that the sacrifices of fallen security personnel would not be forgotten as those responsible were gradually being brought to book.
“We are happy that officers who paid the ultimate price, their sacrifices have not been in vain because we are bringing to a close that chapter, where we now believe that these people will face justice.”
The governor also attributed the successes recorded by security agencies to the state’s heavy investment in modern security infrastructure and surveillance technology.
“It is also heartwarming for me and the people of Enugu State that the investment we have made in the security sector, and the cooperation and dedication of our security agencies in the state, is paying off.
“We can see results with this tracking of criminal elements and cracking of criminal gangs. I am sure the people of Enugu State can now sleep knowing that we have their backs covered.”
According to him, technology alone cannot guarantee security without committed personnel operating the systems.
“That is why we believe that there is no amount you invest in security that is too much.
“However, while we pride ourselves as major investors in technology, we must not forget that technology is also operated by humans. You will need a dedicated workforce.
“In most cases, you do not hear a lot in terms of the achievements we have recorded because the crimes are nipped in the bud, and it is to the credit of both our technology and vigilant officers.”
Issuing a direct warning to criminal elements still operating within the state, Mbah declared that Enugu would remain hostile territory for criminals.
“To the criminals out there, we do not have room for you. I can also assure you that if you come in here and commit crime, no matter how long it takes, we must identify you, we must get you, and we must ensure that you are brought to justice.”
The governor also reminded landlords of their legal obligation to properly screen prospective tenants, warning that ignorance would no longer be accepted as a defence where properties are linked to criminal activities.
“You cannot be exculpated on the ground that you said that you did not know. The law has placed the duty on you. You must ensure that you know who you are giving your house to as a landlord.”
Mbah further commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting reforms in the security sector, particularly the ongoing rehabilitation of security training institutions and the progress made towards the establishment of state police.
“We have received the funds to ensure that all the training institutions for our security agencies are rehabilitated and reconstructed. What that means is that we are going to also have standardisation of training across the country.
“Again, as you may know, the House of Representatives just passed the State Police Bill. I commend them. This will essentially help us to eliminate the tragedy of the commons. And I believe as a state, we must take full responsibility to ensure that we provide effective security within our borders.”
The latest security operation is being seen as one of the most significant crackdowns on criminal networks in Enugu State in recent months, with authorities insisting that ongoing operations will continue until all remaining suspects are apprehended.
