The Anambra State Police Command has arrested over 300 suspects involved in crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and child trafficking.
During a press briefing on Monday at the command’s headquarters in Awka, the Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, highlighted the command’s successes in reducing crime in 2024. He noted that the arrests also covered cases of public disturbances, attacks on civilians and security personnel, and damage to government infrastructure.
Speaking about the breakthroughs, Itam said, “Our interaction today is to highlight some of the notable achievements recorded by the Anambra State Police Command from January 2024 to date. Over 300 suspects have been arrested, and we have secured 30 convictions with many other trials ongoing. We rescued 14 kidnapped victims unhurt and recovered over 43 unexploded improvised devices.”
The commissioner further revealed that the command had recovered over 100 firearms, including AK-47 rifles and pump-action guns, alongside 2,937 rounds of ammunition. He also noted the recovery of 40 stolen vehicles and various motorcycles.
In one notable success, the police rescued three children allegedly stolen from their parents in Bauchi State and sold in Anambra. Four suspects, including a woman who illegally adopted one of the children, were arrested and confessed to the crime. “We are urging the public to help identify the rescued children and assist in reuniting them with their families,” Itam added.
The command also dismantled several criminal camps, including one in Njikoka Local Government Area, where 19 unexploded devices were recovered. Additionally, a notorious kidnapper known as “Pablo,” who had terrorized Ihiala in Anambra as well as parts of Enugu and Delta States, was arrested.
Other breakthroughs include the elimination of masterminds behind an attack on police operatives in Uruagu, Nnewi, and the arrest of an 18-year-old boy involved in a planned cult killing.
The CP thanked the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, for their support. He assured residents that the command would build on its successes to enhance security.
“Our focus this year is to consolidate on the gains in crime prevention and restore law and order to improve the safety and security of lives in Anambra State,” Itam said. He also urged residents to cooperate with the police by reporting suspicious activities, stating that security is a shared responsibility.
