The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a suspected cultist and two other individuals in separate operations that led to the recovery of a locally fabricated pistol, and the seizure of live ammunition in separate operations.
The arrests, which followed surveillance and stop-and-search operations, were carried out by operatives of the Command in different locations on March 15, 2026.
According to the command Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the first operation occurred at about 9:00 a.m. along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, where operatives from the Department of Operations intercepted a tricycle without registration.
“Upon a thorough search of the tricycle, a locally fabricated double-barrel pistol was recovered from two occupants of the vehicle, identified as Ugochukwu Samuel, aged 26, and Kevin Kosichukwu, aged 26, who were immediately arrested,” Ndukwe stated.
He explained that the tricycle used by the suspects was also recovered as part of exhibits linked to the case.
In a related development, Ndukwe disclosed that at about 10:30 a.m. on the same day, operatives attached to the Udenu Area Command, while on proactive patrol along Nsukka Road, Orba in Udenu Local Government Area, intercepted a motorcycle conveying two young men.
“On sighting the operatives, one of the suspects fled into a nearby bush, while the rider, identified as Chinedu Harrison, aged 17, was apprehended,” he said.
He further revealed that six rounds of 9mm live ammunition were recovered from the arrested suspect during the operation.
“During interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of the Arrow Barger cult group and has made useful disclosures that are aiding ongoing investigations,” Ndukwe added.
The police spokesperson noted that efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspect and other accomplices connected to the cases.
“Operatives are currently intensifying efforts to arrest the fleeing suspect and dismantle the criminal network linked to these incidents,” he said.
Ndukwe affirmed that the suspects in custody would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
He also conveyed the commendation of the Commissioner of Police, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, who praised the operatives for their professionalism and adherence to proactive policing strategies.
“The Commissioner of Police commends the operatives for their vigilance and dedication, and urges all personnel to sustain the momentum in proactive policing and crime prevention,” he stated.
Reiterating the Command’s commitment to public safety, Ndukwe called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement authorities.
“The Command urges members of the public to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and to continue providing credible and actionable information to the Police as we remain resolute in ridding Enugu State of unrepentant criminal elements,” he said.
