A Delta State High Court sitting in Kwale has handed down a 10-year jail term to two men found guilty of possessing illegal firearms. The judgment, delivered on Monday is seen as a significant victory in the ongoing battle against arms proliferation in the state.
Joshua Anamali, 25, and Nelson Adoh, 30, were arrested by police officers during a routine stop-and-search operation on January 27, 2021, at Ndemili community in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State. A cut-to-size single-barrel gun was recovered from their possession.
Presiding over the case, Justice O. F. Enenmo found the defendants guilty as charged, sentencing them to 10 years imprisonment each. The convicts are now serving their term at the Custodial Centre in Kwale.
The prosecuting counsel, Mrs. Catherine Oboreruomo, expressed satisfaction with the judgment, stating that it sends a strong message to those involved in illegal possession of firearms. She emphasized the dangers posed by such weapons to society and urged young people to shun criminal activities.
The conviction and sentencing of Anamali and Adoh mark a significant milestone in the fight against arms proliferation in Delta State. The state government has been at the forefront of efforts to curb the menace of illegal firearms, which is often linked to various criminal activities, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and cultism.
The successful prosecution of this case is a testament to the commitment of the police and the judiciary to ensuring the safety and security of citizens. It is hoped that this judgment will serve as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to engage in similar illegal activities.
The Delta State Police Command has intensified its efforts to combat the proliferation of illegal firearms through regular raids and intelligence-led operations. The command has also been working closely with communities to encourage citizens to report suspicious activities to the authorities.
While the conviction of Anamali and Adoh is a step in the right direction, the battle against illegal firearms is far from over. It requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including government agencies, law enforcement, and the community, to address the root causes of the problem.
