The alleged offences were committed on December 31, 2022, at the Mile 12 area of Lagos State. According to the Prosecutor, Supol Bisi Ogunleye, a police patrol team intercepted Anwalu on the road at Mile 12, where they found a Berretta pistol in his possession. The defendant failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for possessing the firearm.
Further investigations led to Anwalu’s confession of being a member of an unlawful secret society. The offences, according to the prosecutor, contravened Sections 512, 296 and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
Magistrate M. A. Adegbaye refused to take the plea of the defendant, ordering his remand in custody instead. The defendant is expected to remain in Kirikiri Correctional Centre until the conclusion of legal proceedings against him.
The possession of firearms without a license is a serious offence in Nigeria, punishable by a jail term of up to 14 years. The law is intended to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms, which has contributed to the rise in violent crimes across the country.
It is unclear how Anwalu obtained the firearm, but illegal firearms are often smuggled into the country through porous borders. The Nigerian government has been working to tighten border security to prevent the influx of illegal arms, drugs, and other contraband into the country.
The police have been carrying out operations to rid the country of illegal firearms and cultists, who are responsible for many violent crimes. The efforts have led to the arrest and prosecution of many suspected cultists and illegal firearms dealers.
The case against Anwalu is expected to serve as a warning to others who engage in illegal activities. The police have called on the public to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement agencies to help keep communities safe.
The Nigerian government has reiterated its commitment to tackling the issue of insecurity in the country. The government has called on Nigerians to support its efforts to maintain law and order and to work towards building a safer, more prosperous Nigeria for all citizens.
As the legal proceedings against Anwalu continue, it is hoped that justice will be served and that the defendant will face the full consequences of his alleged actions.