Police in Anambra State have apprehended an armed robbery suspect who allegedly attempted to snatch a victim's phone and valuables at gunpoint, but was overpowered due to timely intervention of bystanders.

Police spokesman SP Tochukwu Ikenga said in Awka yesterday that the incident occurred in Awka, highlighting the prompt action by operatives of the Central Police Station.

"Following the victim's brave resistance and timely police intervention on Dec. 25, Nicholas Nweke, suspected armed robber, was arrested.

"Authorities recovered a pump-action rifle, five cartridges, one mobile phone, and N1,200 cash," Ikenga said.

He said at the scene, police met the victim struggling with the suspect over the firearm, adding that with officers' assistance, the suspect was disarmed and taken into custody without further escalation.

Ikenga said preliminary investigations revealed the suspect approached the victim, demanding his phone and other valuables.

He said when the victim refused, the suspect allegedly fired shots, injuring two unsuspecting passersby nearby.

He said the injured passersby were immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where they were reportedly stable and responding positively to treatment after sustaining minor injuries during the incident.

Ikenga confirmed that the case had been handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka for discreet investigation, ensuring a thorough probe into the robbery attempt. (NAN)