In a major crackdown on criminal activities in Anambra State, police operatives have successfully apprehended two suspected kidnappers who are believed to be key members of an armed robbery gang. These suspects have been identified as part of a notorious group operating in various communities, including Uga, Ekwulobia, Umuchu, Nkpologu, Ezinifite, and Aguata, terrorizing the residents with a spree of kidnappings, car thefts, and armed robberies.
The arrest was announced on Thursday by Tochukwu Ikenga, a spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command. According to Ikenga, the successful operation was a collaborative effort involving not just the police, but also military personnel, civil defence operatives, and other security forces. This coordinated response reflects the heightened efforts by security agencies in the state to tackle the growing threat of organized crime and ensure the safety of the citizens.
Ikenga explained that the breakthrough in the case came through a diligent follow-up on a previous investigation. The case in question was related to a kidnapping incident reported in 2023 in the Aguata community. This incident had remained unsolved, but the determination of the police to bring the culprits to justice never wavered. Acting on credible intelligence gathered over the past year, the joint security team executed a raid on Thursday, August 22, 2024, which led to the arrest of the suspects.
The suspects, whose identities have been withheld pending further investigation, were found to have connections with a notorious secessionist group. This group is known for its involvement in various forms of criminal activity, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and car snatching, particularly in the more remote and less accessible communities of the state. These areas had become hotspots for criminal operations, with residents living in fear of the gang’s activities.
One of the arrested suspects had a bullet wound on his leg, indicating a possible confrontation with the security forces. The other suspect, surprisingly, was discovered to be a fake pastor. This individual was allegedly responsible for preparing criminal charms for the gang members, a role that suggests the use of traditional beliefs and practices to embolden the criminals and possibly to protect them from detection by authorities.
During interrogations, the fake pastor reportedly confessed to his involvement in the crimes and has been providing valuable information to the police. His cooperation is proving instrumental in the ongoing investigation, as he is helping to identify and locate other members of the gang. Moreover, he has revealed the existence of a shrine where the criminal charms were prepared. The discovery of this shrine is expected to be a significant lead, not only in dismantling this particular gang but also in understanding the broader network of criminal activities tied to traditional practices.
The suspects have also disclosed the locations where they stored stolen vehicles, providing a critical opportunity for the police to recover property that had been taken from victims. This recovery effort will not only help to return possessions to their rightful owners but also serve as evidence in the prosecution of these criminals.
Following the arrests, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnaghe Itam, addressed the public, reassuring them of the police command’s commitment to tackling crime in all its forms. He emphasized that the protection of lives and properties remains a top priority for the police, and they are working tirelessly to investigate and resolve all reported cases, particularly those involving kidnappings, armed robbery, and other violent crimes.
Commissioner Itam reiterated the importance of public trust in the effectiveness of the police force. He acknowledged the concerns of the citizens regarding the safety of their communities and assured them that the police are not taking their responsibility lightly. The recent arrests, he noted, are a testament to the ongoing efforts to bring criminals to justice and to restore peace and security in the state.
In his statement, Tochukwu Ikenga called for continued cooperation from the public, urging residents to provide any information that could assist in the fight against crime. He highlighted the role of community involvement in maintaining security, pointing out that many successful operations have been the result of tips and information from vigilant members of the community.
As the investigation continues, the police are hopeful that more members of the gang turn up so as to restore order in the area.
