The Anambra State Police Command has apprehended more than 300 suspects connected to armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, secessionist activities, rape, and other serious crimes. Additionally, 35 kidnapped victims were rescued, and over 2,000 arms and ammunition, including explosives and other dangerous items, were recovered.
State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, shared this during a press briefing at the command’s headquarters in Awka on Wednesday. He added that over 60 stolen vehicles, including motorcycles, were recovered, and the command successfully prosecuted and secured convictions in multiple criminal cases.
Orutugu explained that these arrests and recoveries were achieved within the outgoing year through ongoing significant innovation in the command aimed at operational proficiency and enhancing skills in crime prevention strategies.
He also observed that throughout the year, the Command noticed fluctuations in crime patterns, largely influenced by socio-economic realities and evolving security dynamics across the country.
Despite these challenges, the command achieved a notable reduction in incidents of violent crime, cult-related activities, armed robbery, and kidnapping across much of the state through proactive policing, intelligence-led operations, and the 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 acknowledged that despite these successes, the Command faced challenges, particularly due to evolving criminal tactics, occasional resistance, misinformation, and non-cooperation from some members of the public. However, these obstacles have strengthened the command’s resolve to improve 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 residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly.
He added, “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 and 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.