Police arrest 300 suspects, recover 2,000 arms in Anambra  

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested over 300 suspects linked to armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, secessionist activities, rape, and other serious offences, 35 kidnapped victims, recovered over 2,000 arms and ammunition, including explosives and other dangerous items.

The state Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, disclosed this during a press briefing at the command’s headquarters in Awka, on Wednesday, adding that more than 60 stolen vehicles, including motorcycles, were recovered while the command successfully prosecuted and secured convictions in several criminal cases.

Orutugu said these arrests and recoveries were made within the outgoing year through the ongoing significant innovation in the command aimed at operational proficiency and acquiring more skills in crime prevention strategies.

The CP also noted that throughout the year, the Command observed fluctuations in crime patterns, largely influenced by socio-economic realities and evolving security dynamics across the country.

According to him, despite these challenges, the command also achieved a noticeable reduction in incidents of violent crime, cult-related activities, armed robbery and kidnapping in most parts of the state through proactive policing, intelligence-led operations, and the unwavering dedication of officers.

He said, “Through intelligence- driven operations and swift responses by the joint security team comprising the Police, the Department of Security Service, the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Navy, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigeria Immigration Service, Agunaechemba, and other security operatives, the Command rescued 35 kidnapped victims.

“The command also arrested over 300 suspects linked to armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, secessionist activities, rape and other serious offences, recovered 2,000 arms and ammunition, including explosives and other dangerous items, recovered more than 60 stolen vehicles, including motorcycles; and successfully prosecuted and secured convictions in several criminal cases.

“A major highlight among these achievements was the re-arrest of the suspects involved in the killing of the late member of the state Assembly, Justice Azuka, in Onitsha, including the gang leader. The arrest of the suspects who murdered three Cameroonian nationalists and the recovery of the bodies of the victims.”

The CP explained that despite these successes, the Command faced certain challenges, notably the evolving tactics of criminal elements, occasional resistance, misinformation, and non-cooperation from a few members of the public.

However, these challenges, according to him, have only strengthened the command’s resolve to improve its strategies and operational effectiveness in the coming year.

He also reaffirmed that the use of knock-out substances and other social explosives remains prohibited in Anambra State, urging the people to remain vigilant and report suspicious persons or movements promptly.

He said, “As we enter the festive season, the Command has deployed robust security measures to ensure residents and visitors enjoy a peaceful celebration. We urge members of the public to adhere to the following safety advisories:

“As the lead agency in internal security, the Nigeria Police Force recognises that the ultimate assessment of our performance rests with the good people of Anambra State. While we acknowledge that we are not yet where we aspire to be in achieving total security, it is important to emphasise that the cooperation, trust, and timely support we received from residents significantly contributed to the successes recorded during the year under review.

“Some of the notable accomplishments of the Command include the disruption of multiple kidnapping syndicates operating across several local government areas.

“The dismantling of criminal hideouts and identified black spots through sustained raids and patrols. The strengthening of community policing structures and ensuring that residents remain active stakeholders in security. Improved inter-agency collaboration, resulting in successful joint security operations and significant breakthroughs.

“As a result of these efforts, Anambra State witnessed incident-free major activities, including the official visit of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the State. The successful conduct of the governorship and local government elections.

“The gradual return of normal social life in Ihiala, with weddings, birthdays, and other community events held without intimidation or harassment. As we prepare to enter a new year, we reaffirm our commitment to a safer and more secure Anambra State.

“The Command will continue to strengthen its capacity, deepen community partnerships, and intensify operations to ensure that every resident feels protected,” he added.

The CP also expressed the Command’s profound appreciation to the Anambra State government for its continuous support, sister security agencies for sustained cooperation and synergy, traditional rulers, religious leaders, town unions, and community vigilante groups, the media for accurate and responsible reportage and above all, Ndi Anambra for their trust, partnership, and timely information sharing.