Security operatives in Nasarawa State have arrested six suspected armed robbers and cult members during coordinated operations aimed at strengthening safety ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued in Lafia by the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Ramhan Nansel.
According to him, the suspects were apprehended with firearms and other dangerous items during special security patrols conducted across parts of the state.
Nansel described the operation as part of ongoing efforts by the command to ensure peaceful and crime-free Sallah celebrations for residents.
He explained that operatives attached to the Violent Crime Response Unit intercepted some of the suspects on Wednesday at about 4:30 p.m. during a patrol around the Ombi I area of Lafia.
The police spokesperson said the suspects, all male residents of Transformer Street in Ombi I, were stopped after officers became suspicious of their movements while carrying a small handbag.
He stated that the suspects failed to provide a satisfactory explanation during interrogation, prompting a search by the officers.
Items recovered from them included a locally fabricated Beretta pistol, one live 9mm ammunition, four Android phones, criminal charms and a Bajaj motorcycle.
Nansel added that the suspects were currently in police custody while investigations continued to uncover possible links to other criminal activities and networks.
He further disclosed that later the same day, at about 7:00 p.m., the Area Commander in Metro Lafia received a distress report concerning suspected cult activities in the Bukan Kwato area of the state capital.
Acting on the information, security operatives reportedly mobilised to the area and arrested three suspected members of the group along the new bypass leading to the Akunza community in Lafia.
The police spokesperson said the suspects, who are all males from Akunza community, were found with a locally made pistol, an axe and a red beret believed to be associated with cult groups.
Nansel conveyed the commendation of the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Mohammed, to officers involved in the operations for their swift response and professionalism.
He also reassured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property during and after the Eid-el-Kabir festivities.
The police warned criminal elements and members of unlawful groups to stay away from all forms of criminal activities or risk prosecution.
Residents were also encouraged to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to security agencies to support efforts at maintaining peace and security across the state.
Police authorities said the suspects would be arraigned in court after the completion of investigations.