By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters Awka, Nigeria – September 2, 2025
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested four suspected members of a robbery and kidnapping syndicate and recovered firearms and ammunition during a sting operation in Amansea, Awka.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, in the early hours of September 1, 2025. The police recovered two pump-action rifles and nine live cartridges during the operation.
The arrest follows investigations into a kidnapping case initially reported at B Division, Awka, on August 14, 2025, where victims were abducted and released after a ransom of ₦5 million was paid.
The suspects, identified as Chigozie Igboekwu (31), Odumegwu Chibuike (23), Jonah Awudu (40), and Okechukwu Nwari (33), have reportedly confessed to abducting two victims in Amansea on August 12. The victims were held for two days in a bush in Ugwuoba, Enugu State, before being released after the ransom payment.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc MNIPS PhD, commended the operatives for their resilience and reassured residents of the command’s commitment to combating crime in the state.
“The Command remains unwavering in its determination to rid Anambra of criminal elements and to ensure the safety and security of all residents,” CP Orutugu said, as quoted in the statement.
SP Ikenga confirmed that the case will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
