In a major breakthrough against violent crime, the Anambra State Police Command has busted a notorious kidnapping and armed robbery syndicate, arresting four suspected members and recovering sophisticated weapons.
The suspects, identified as Chigozie Igboekwu (31), Odumegwu Chibuike (23), Jonah Awudu (40), and Okechukwu Nwari (33), were captured by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Amansea, Awka, following weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who confirmed the development in a statement on Tuesday, disclosed that the gang had recently abducted two victims in Amansea on August 12, 2025, around 7:00 PM. The victims were whisked into a bush in Ugwuoba, Enugu State, where they were held captive for two days. They were only released after their families paid a staggering ₦5 million ransom.
Recovered from the suspects during the sting operation were two pump-action rifles and nine live cartridges, which the police say were used to terrorize their victims.
Ikenga revealed that the case, initially lodged at B Division, Awka, was transferred to the RRS on August 14, 2025. Meticulous surveillance led operatives to the suspects’ hideout, culminating in their arrest. He added that the suspects have confessed to their roles in the crime and provided valuable intelligence on their network.
Commending the operatives for the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, vowed that the Command would continue to intensify its crackdown on criminals.
> “We will not relent in our mission to rid Anambra of kidnappers and armed robbers. More operations are underway to hunt down other fleeing members of the syndicate,” Orutugu assured.
The latest arrests have sparked relief among residents, with many praising the police for dismantling a syndicate that had long instilled fear in communities around Awka and beyond.
PIONEER NEWS 