The Anambra State Police Command has successfully apprehended 13 kidnap suspects, recovering a significant cache of arms and ammunition. The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Inaghe Itam, presented the suspects to the media at the command headquarters in Amawbia, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards violent protests in the state.
Commissioner Itam assured the public that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, remain vigilant in safeguarding lives and property. Highlighting the Command’s recent achievements, he reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and combating crime across the state.
Detailing the arrests, Commissioner Itam recounted the capture of Emeka Okolo (29), Uchenna John (21), and Victor Iniukpong (31) linked to an armed robbery, car snatching, and the kidnapping of Abuchi Madueke on July 13, 2024, in Nimo. The suspects reportedly shot Clement Obodozie to death and stole a Lexus 330 SUV. They were apprehended while attempting to disable a tracker on another victim’s vehicle.
Further arrests included Chiedozie Nnatu (43), Onyeka Okoye (22), and Ndubuisi Abate (19), implicated in the July 21, 2024, kidnapping of Architect Sunday Etimbuk and Goodness Friday in Odume, Obosi. The Command also detained suspected cultists and armed robbers Emeka Okotor (18), Chidubem Ejiofor (18), Chigwo Nwankwo (20), and Chijoka Onyibor (18) in Awka, seizing a pump action gun used in their operations.
Additional suspects, Chigbogu Favor (33) and Mbanefo Udeze (36), operating between Anambra and Asaba, Delta State, were arrested alongside Chigaemezu Okafor (26) and Uchenna Nwaiwu (20), leading to the recovery of four pump action guns and a double-barrel gun.
Commissioner Itam urged bloggers and online writers to verify information with the police before publishing, to avoid spreading unsubstantiated reports that could incite public fear. He reiterated the right to peaceful protests but warned against any actions that could disturb public order.
One of the suspects, Engineer Nnatu from Enugwu-Ukwu in Njikoka Local Government Area, claimed innocence regarding the allegations against him.
