Abia Police Nab Ebonyi Man with Pistol, 15 Rounds of Ammo

Authorities within the Abia State Police Command have announced the apprehension of a 27-year-old man, Prosper Okey, who hails from Ebonyi State, on allegations of unlawful firearm possession.

AIG Wilfred Afolabi, the Commissioner of Police for Abia State, disclosed that the arrest was executed last Sunday by detectives assigned to the Ikwuano Divisional Police Headquarters. This operation was initiated following the receipt of credible and actionable intelligence.

In a statement released on Friday by DSP Maureen Chinaka, the Police Public Relations Officer, it was confirmed that operatives successfully recovered a Bernardelli Model 60 Browning pistol and fifteen rounds of ammunition from the suspect. The statement detailed that a search conducted at Okey's residence, situated in Umugbalu, along Amaoba Community in Ikwuano, led to the discovery and recovery of these firearms.

The official statement partly read, “A search conducted at his residence, Umugbalu along Amaoba Community in Ikwuano, led to the recovery of one Bernardelli Model 60 Browning Pistol and fifteen (15) rounds of ammunition. The suspect was subsequently transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.”

Following the conclusion of the investigation, police officials confirmed that Prosper Okey has since been formally charged in court to face prosecution.

Commissioner Afolabi took the opportunity to reaffirm the command's steadfast dedication to enhancing proactive policing strategies, intensifying intelligence-driven operations, and combating criminal elements throughout Abia State. He further emphasized the police's unwavering resolve to protect the lives and properties of citizens, ensuring that all those involved in criminal acts are apprehended and brought to justice.

The command appealed to members of the public to maintain their cooperation by providing accurate and timely information to law enforcement. It stressed that community collaboration remains crucial for upholding peace, safety, and security across Abia State.