Anambra State Police Command has arrested 13 suspects in separate operations across the state recovering firearms, ammunition, charms, cult-related insignias, suspected illicit drugs, dangerous weapons and stolen vehicle.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said on September 30, 2026, operatives of Okpoko Division, acting on credible intelligence, raided suspected criminal hideout around Coca-Cola Market, Okpoko, and arrested Somtochukwu Ezeibe, 20.
Recovered from him were one locally-made double-barrel pistol, one live cartridge and charms. A follow-up search at his residence also led to recovery of Vikings Confraternity beret and peak cap.
Preliminary investigation revealed alleged involvement in cult-related activities, while suspect provided information that assisted police in identifying other persons allegedly connected with group.
Consequently, on October 5, 2026, operatives arrested eight additional suspects: Chinonso Njoku, Tochukwu Ogbonna, Chidiebere Anokwuru, Chidera Nwakpa, Nweke Chibuike, Somadina Otubo, Chibueze Ikechukwu and Obum James. Suspects have been transferred to Anti-Cult Unit for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Similarly, on October 4, 2026, operatives of Rapid Response Squad, RRS, Awkuzu, in collaboration with Agunechemba Vigilante, Onitsha Sector, arrested four suspects in connection with alleged conspiracy and armed robbery. They are Dennis Ngwu, Elvis Udo Effiong, Femi Adekoya and Chijioke Obinozie. Large quantities of suspected illicit substances were recovered from suspects.
Preliminary investigation indicates suspects are allegedly members of six-man gang suspected of robbing shuttle bus operators at gunpoint and diverting company goods within Onitsha.
Suspects reportedly made statements implicating themselves in alleged offences, including diversion of goods valued at approximately N40 million. Investigation is ongoing to establish full circumstances and identify other persons who may be connected to activities.
Meanwhile, operatives of Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit, VCRU, during intelligence-led patrol on October 5, 2026, recovered abandoned green Toyota Highlander at Ogidi.
Preliminary findings indicate vehicle was allegedly snatched from its owner at Ogidi Building Materials on August 16, 2026.
Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, reassured Ndi Anambra that Command will sustain intelligence-led operations against cultism, armed robbery, kidnapping and other violent crimes across state.
The Commissioner urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible and timely information to police, assuring that such information will be treated with appropriate confidentiality and acted upon professionally.
