By Rejoice Peterside
Operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) have arrested a 35-year-old man after recovering a live cartridge during a stop-and-search operation in Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The suspect, identified as Needam Yeezor, a native of Khana Local Government Area, was apprehended on June 16, 2026, at about 7:00 p.m. along the Igbo-Etche Road during a routine patrol by VCRU operatives deployed from Ada George.
Police said officers intercepted a commercial tricycle carrying three occupants and conducted a thorough search as part of ongoing proactive policing efforts. During the search, a live cartridge was recovered from Yeezor, who was immediately taken into custody.
The other occupants of the tricycle were also detained for questioning as investigators work to establish the circumstances surrounding the possession of the ammunition and determine whether the suspect has links to any criminal network operating within the state.
The arrest is the latest success recorded by the VCRU in its sustained crackdown on violent crimes, armed robbery, kidnapping, cult-related activities and other security threats in Rivers State.
Security experts have consistently described intelligence-led stop-and-search operations as one of the most effective crime prevention measures, enabling law enforcement agencies to intercept illegal weapons, ammunition and suspected criminals before crimes are committed.
The VCRU, a specialised tactical unit established under the initiative of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, continues to play a critical role in intelligence gathering, crime prevention and rapid response operations in states where it has been deployed.
Since its establishment, the unit has recorded notable successes in disrupting criminal networks, recovering illegal weapons, rescuing victims and arresting suspects linked to various violent crimes.
Police authorities reiterated that the operation forms part of broader strategies aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of movement and ensuring that residents of Rivers State can live and carry out their lawful activities in a safe and secure environment.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing, while the police assured members of the public that anyone found connected to criminal activities will be brought to justice.
