The Anambra State Police Command has recorded another major operational success as operatives of the Commissioner of Police (CP) Special Patrol recovered arms, suspected stolen cash, and other incriminating items during a hot pursuit in Abagana.
The incident occurred at about 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, during an offensive security operation aimed at flushing out criminal elements and strengthening public safety across the state.
According to police sources, the operatives encountered suspected criminals who attempted to evade arrest upon sighting the patrol team, triggering a high-speed chase through the area.
In the course of the pursuit, the suspects’ operational vehicle was involved in an accident, forcing the occupants to abandon the vehicle and flee into the surrounding environment.
A thorough search of the abandoned ash-coloured Toyota Highlander with registration number UWN 680 PE led to the discovery of dangerous weapons and other items suspected to be linked to criminal activities.
Among the items recovered were one pump-action rifle and one locally fabricated single-barrel rifle, raising serious concerns about the intentions of the fleeing suspects.
Police operatives also recovered a sum of Six Hundred and Thirty-Six Thousand, Seven Hundred Naira (₦636,700.00), believed to be suspected proceeds of crime.
Other incriminating items found inside the vehicle are currently being analyzed as part of ongoing investigations by the Command.
Although the suspects escaped during the incident, the Police Command has confirmed that their identities are being traced through intelligence gathering and coordinated tracking efforts.
The Command disclosed that intelligence-led operations have since been intensified across Abagana and adjoining communities to ensure the arrest of the fleeing suspects.
Security presence in the area has also been strengthened to prevent any further criminal activity and to reassure residents of the police’s readiness to respond swiftly to threats.
The Anambra State Police Command described the recovery as a testament to its proactive policing approach and sustained commitment to combating crime in the state.
Residents have been urged to remain calm but vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious movement or information that could assist security agencies.
The Police Command reaffirmed that the safety of lives and property remains its top priority, stressing that criminal elements will find no hiding place in Anambra State.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, the Command assured Ndi Anambra that further developments on the operation will be communicated as investigations continue.