TheCable

Abutu Yaro, commissioner of police in Imo, has issued an ultimatum for the return of police rifles stolen in the state.

According to the commissioner, criminals have till June 12 to return all stolen police rifles.

Yaro issued the warning on Wednesday in Owerri, the Imo capital, during a media briefing.

He said police rifles have been stolen during attacks on security formations in the state, adding that anyone caught with the weapons will face the full weight of the law.

He attributed recent attacks on security operatives in the state to illegal possession of rifles, and called on residents to report anyone found in possession of such weapons.

“Many police stations were recently burnt and rifles moved away are being used to carry out shootings and killings in the state,” he said.

“I hereby call on parents and well-meaning people of the state to report any child in their domain who is found in possession of police rifles.

“Police rifles are for police and not for any other person.”

He said the command has resolved to deal ruthlessly with any person caught with such arms and ammunition.

Yaro also promised that the police will leave no stone unturned in bringing criminals to book.