Security Forces Capture Six Wanted Gunmen, Recover Heavy Weapons in Enugu

A major breakthrough has been recorded in Enugu State’s fight against violent crime following the arrest of six suspected criminals on the state’s security watch list and the recovery of a substantial cache of arms and ammunition during coordinated security operations.

Governor Peter Mbah disclosed this on Friday while inspecting the recovered weapons at the Enugu State headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The governor said the suspects were among individuals linked to some of the most serious security breaches recorded in the state in recent months and had remained on the run despite ongoing security operations.

Items recovered during the operations include 17 AK-47 rifles, one General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), one rocket-propelled rifle, one tear-gas gun, 12 AK-47 magazines, two hand grenades, three tear-gas canisters and 1,071 rounds of ammunition.

Security agencies also recovered military-style uniforms and other operational items believed to have been used by criminal elements.

Mbah, who was received by the Enugu State Director of the DSS, Humphery Ohikhuare, the Commissioner of Police, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, the Garrison Commander of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Garba Suru and other senior security officials, praised the professionalism and commitment of security personnel involved in the operation.

“Today is a triumph of vigilance, hard work and dedication to duty by our security agencies,” the governor said.

He recalled that the state government had previously placed bounties on individuals linked to the killing of security operatives in December 2025, adding that several suspects connected to the incident had now been apprehended.

According to him, the latest arrests represent a significant step toward ensuring accountability for crimes committed against security personnel and innocent residents.

The governor also attributed the successes to the state’s investments in modern security infrastructure and intelligence-driven policing.

“It is gratifying that the investments we have made in security and technology are yielding results. The people of Enugu State can sleep knowing that we are committed to protecting them,” he stated.

Mbah noted that while technological tools have enhanced crime detection and prevention, their effectiveness depends on the dedication of security personnel who operate them.

He reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on criminality and warned those still involved in violent crimes to leave the state or face the full weight of the law.

“We have no room for criminals in Enugu. If you commit crime here, no matter how long it takes, we will identify you, apprehend you and ensure you face justice,” he said.

The governor also issued a strong warning to landlords and property owners, urging them to conduct thorough background checks on prospective tenants.

According to him, property owners who knowingly or negligently provide accommodation for criminals risk prosecution and other sanctions under existing laws.

“You cannot claim ignorance. The law places a responsibility on landlords to know those occupying their properties,” he stressed.

Mbah further commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting efforts to strengthen national security institutions.

As Chairman of the Presidential Committee on the Revamp of Security Training Institutions, the governor revealed that funds had already been released to rehabilitate and modernise security training facilities across the country.

He also welcomed the recent passage of the State Police Bill by the House of Representatives, describing it as a significant step toward improving security management and accountability at the subnational level.

According to him, empowering states to take greater responsibility for internal security would enhance efforts to combat crime and maintain public safety across Nigeria.