The Anambra State Police Command has recovered over 20 improvised explosive devices, rifles, and various other items in a series of operations throughout the state.
Commissioner of Police Nnaghe Itam announced this during a press briefing in Awka on Friday. He stated that these operations were carried out by police and allied agencies.
During the briefing, Itam presented 13 suspects arrested across the state for crimes including kidnapping, armed robbery, and cult-related activities.
The suspects included Emeka Okolo (29) from Ihiala, Uchenna John (21) from Ebonyi, and Victor Iniukpong (31) from Akwa Ibom, who were apprehended while attempting to remove a tracker from a car belonging to a kidnapping victim in Nimo on July 15, where one person was killed.
Other suspects paraded were Nnatu Chiedozie (43) from Enugu Ukwu, Onyeka Okoye (22) from Uruagu Mbaukwu, and Ndubuisi Abate (19) from Ayamelum, arrested for a kidnapping in Obosi on July 21. Additionally, Emeka Okotor (18), Chidubem Ejiofor (18), Chigbo Nwankwo (20), and Chijioke Onyibor (18), all from Awka, were arrested for armed robbery and cultism.
Also presented were Chigbogu Favour (33) from Ihiala and Mbanefo Udeze (36) from Oraifite, who kidnapped victims in Anambra and took them to their hideouts in Asaba. Chigaemezu Okafor (26) from Mbano, Imo State, and Uchenna Nwaiwu (20) from Ngor Okpala, Imo State, were noted for several kidnappings in Anambra. Ugochukwu Francis (36) was also highlighted for his involvement in numerous kidnapping and armed robbery cases.
Itam stated that arms and ammunition were seized from the suspects and that 20 improvised explosive devices were recovered from various locations where gunmen had planted them.
The recovered explosives included several types from different locations such as ESN camps in Ugbenu, Aguluezechukwu, Ogbunka, and others.
Itam reassured the public that the Command will continue its operations to restore peace in the state and urged residents and legitimate business operators to trust in the efforts to maintain security.
Regarding the recent kidnappings around Dubai Estate in Awka, Itam mentioned ongoing investigations and warned against spreading unverified security information, which could hinder police work.
He addressed the upcoming nationwide hunger protest, stating that peaceful protests would be protected but any form of violence would not be tolerated.
“The Police are committed to regulating assemblies and protecting peaceful protesters, but any threat to peace will be dealt with firmly,” Itam concluded.
