The Anambra State Police Command has conducted raids on identified black spots in Awka and surrounding areas as part of a security operation to ensure a crime-free Imo-Awka masquerade festival, leading to the arrest of one suspect.

According to a statement released on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awka Sector, arrested 25-year-old Nasiru Samaila during an operation conducted on the evening of May 19.

"The suspect in a bid to escape started shooting indiscriminately, but was subdued by the police team which fired him on his right leg," Ikenga stated. "Unfortunately, one of the police operatives sustained a gunshot injury and has been taken to the hospital where he is currently responding to treatment."

Items recovered from the suspect included a locally made Berretta pistol, live ammunition, a knife, and a large quantity of substances suspected to be hard drugs.

The police spokesperson explained that the operation was prompted by intelligence gathered over time regarding miscreants who, under the guise of celebrating the Imo-Awka masquerade festival, engage in criminal activities, becoming unruly and making life unbearable for residents and indigenes of Awka.

"The Police Command in Anambra State has intensified raid and discreet operations on some identified black spots in Awka and environs," Ikenga added, reaffirming the command's commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring public safety during the upcoming festival.

The Imo-Awka masquerade festival is a significant cultural celebration in Awka, and authorities are taking proactive measures to ensure that the event proceeds peacefully without being marred by criminal elements.