AGBOR — A suspected armed robbery operation was foiled in the early hours of the weekend in Agbor, Delta State, after a swift, intelligence-driven response by the police disrupted an eight-man gang attempting to break into a residential compound.
The incident, which occurred at about 4:47 a.m. at Full Current Compound in Alihame, threw residents into panic as the armed gang allegedly tried to force their way into the premises.
A distress call from a resident prompted an immediate response from the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Agbor Division, who mobilised the Anti-Crime Patrol team to the scene, according to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe.
Edafe disclosed that upon arrival, one of the suspects, identified as 41-year-old Emeka Ernest from Ukpo in Anambra State, had already been overpowered by vigilant residents after a struggle.
The suspect, who sustained injuries during the altercation, was taken into custody and rushed to the General Hospital in Agbor, where he is currently receiving treatment.
A search of the scene led to the recovery of one live cartridge from the suspect, while two expended cartridges, a battle axe, a red cloth believed to have been used as a face mask, and a mobile phone were also retrieved.
In a follow-up operation on Monday based on the suspect’s confession, police operatives recovered a locally fabricated single-barrel shotgun hidden near the scene.
The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the officers and residents for their coordinated efforts in foiling the operation.
He said the prompt action of the DPO and the vigilance of residents were instrumental in preventing what could have been a major criminal attack.
The police boss reassured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Investigations are ongoing, while efforts have been intensified to apprehend other members of the gang who fled the scene.