By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has announced the recovery of a fabricated AK-47 rifle as part of its ongoing manhunt for a murder suspect linked to a recent double killing in Awka South Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the recovery was made on Thursday, August 14, by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) based in Awkuzu. He said, acting on credible intelligence, the operatives stormed an apartment in Umuike Village, Awka, where the abandoned rifle was discovered alongside a magazine without ammunition.
The operation, police said, is connected to ongoing investigations into a case involving conspiracy, murder, and unlawful possession of firearms. The case centers around the gruesome murder of two male victims at Okochi Village, Okpuno, in Awka South Local Government Area.
According to the Police Spokesman, the principal suspect, identified only as “Nwajagu” (other names yet to be confirmed), was reportedly traced to the Awka apartment. However, upon sighting the police operatives, he fled the scene through the back door, evading arrest.
“The Command hereby assures the public that efforts are being intensified to apprehend and bring the fleeing suspect to justice,” the statement read, adding that the recovered firearm has been taken into custody as an exhibit.
The Police Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property in Anambra State and urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or individuals to security agencies.
