The Abia State Police Command has arrested 13 suspects in a series of intelligence-led operations targeting armed robbery, unlawful possession of firearms, cult-related activities and the vandalism of government property across the state. The command said the coordinated raids were carried out by its Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) and other tactical teams in a sustained effort to curb violent crime.

Police spokesperson DSP Maureen Chinaka said the suspects, all males aged between 20 and 27, were apprehended during separate operations in Umuahia and Aba. Officers recovered several exhibits, including a Beretta pistol, a locally made pistol, a single-barrel gun, a pump-action gun, eight live cartridges, walkie-talkies, a cutlass, an axe, red and black berets, as well as substances suspected to be illicit drugs.

According to the command, the arrests followed credible intelligence and surveillance that led operatives to the suspects. Police said the recovered weapons and other items have been taken into custody as evidence, while investigations continue to identify additional suspects and determine the extent of their alleged involvement in criminal activities across the state.

The Abia Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property through proactive policing and urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information. Authorities added that all suspects will be prosecuted in accordance with the law after investigations are concluded.