The Police command in Edo has alleged massive build-up of arms and ammunition by politicians ahead of the 2015 general elections.
The state police commissioner, Mr Foluso Adebanjo disclosed this during the parade of seventy-six suspects arrested for various crimes in the state.
He gave 14 days ultimatum for those in possession of illegal arms to surrender them or face the wrath of the law.
The commissioner said a special squad has been set up by the command to arrest those in possession of illegally acquired arms and ammunition in the state.
According to Adebanjo, “unconfirmed intelligence at our disposal indicates massive build-up of arms and ammunition by some politicians, hired thugs, violent cult groups and other undesirable individuals to cause mayhem if they do not win the primaries.
“The possession of illegal weapons is unauthorized.
“I hereby warn everyone in the state, irrespective of their status, to surrender to the office of the commissioner of police within a period of fourteen days all illegally acquired weapons in their possession.
“Failure to adhere to this ultimatum will spell danger for anyone arrested with such illegal weapons.
“The anti robbery and other special squad have been directed to identify, raid, and confiscate such illegal weapons and prosecute offenders in competent law courts.”
While promising reward for any information that would lead to recovery of massive arms and ammunition in the state, the commissioner stressed that such information would be treated with confidence.
He reiterated the command’s readiness to ensure safety and lives and properties before, during and after the elections.
76 suspects were paraded for various crimes ranging from, kidnapping, armed robbery and rape within the last one month.
He also said a total of twenty-one cars were recovered by the command under the same period.