The Edo State Police Command has arrested a 36-year-old man, Richard Gabriel, after recovering 36 rounds of live cartridges during a stop-and-search operation in Benin City.
The command’s spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday, saying the suspect was apprehended at Guobadia Junction along the Benin-Auchi Road.
According to the statement, police officers attached to the Ikpoba Hill Area Command intercepted a commercial bus carrying seven passengers from the Benin-Auchi Bypass to Ring Road when three male passengers suddenly abandoned their belongings and attempted to flee.
The officers reportedly pursued the fleeing suspects and succeeded in arresting one of them, identified as Gabriel, from Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State.
A search of the suspect’s bag led to the recovery of 36 rounds of live cartridges concealed inside.
“The Edo State Police Command has recorded another operational success with the recovery of 36 rounds of live cartridges and the arrest of a suspect during a routine stop-and-search operation in Benin City,” the statement said.
The police said efforts were ongoing to arrest the two other suspects who escaped during the operation.
Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, commended the officers for their vigilance and professionalism, describing the arrest as a major step in the fight against crime in the state.
He reassured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining security across Edo State.
The suspect remains in police custody while investigations continue.
