The Edo State Police Command has successfully recovered an AK-47 rifle and a magazine hidden in a stolen Toyota Camry after the vehicle‘s driver fled during a routine stop-and-search operation. The incident took place in Okpella, where officers had intercepted the vehicle with registration number BDG 17 JK.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Edo, SP Moses Joel Yamu, disclosed the details in a statement on Saturday. Yamu explained that while conducting the search, the driver suddenly fled, raising suspicions among the officers. A more thorough inspection of the vehicle led to the discovery of the rifle and magazine, which were cleverly concealed in the engine compartment.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the vehicle’s original owner, identified as Umaru Usman, was murdered and his vehicle stolen in Lagos. The case had been reported at Alausa Police Station in Lagos. Authorities suspect that the man who fled during the search, known only by the alias “Ahuwa/Soldier,” is the main perpetrator, but his real name remains unknown. Efforts are currently underway to apprehend the suspect.
An accomplice who was arrested at the scene has confessed to the crime and revealed that they were en route to Otukpo in Benue State to dispose of the vehicle. The accomplice is actively cooperating with the police in their investigation.
Yamu further stated that the suspect and the recovered evidence have been handed over to the Lagos State Police Command for further investigation and prosecution. Authorities are optimistic that the accomplice’s cooperation will aid in capturing the fugitive suspect and bringing justice to the case.
The Edo State Police Command continues to urge the public to report any suspicious activity and cooperate with law enforcement officers during security operations, emphasizing that the safety of citizens remains their top priority. The police are committed to ensuring that those involved in criminal activities face the full weight of the law.
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