The Anambra State Police Command has apprehended two suspected kidnappers believed to be part of an armed robbery gang operating in various communities, including Uga, Ekwulobia, Umuchu, Nkpologu, Ezinifite, and Aguata.
According to The PUNCH, the suspects, allegedly associated with a notorious secessionist group, were involved in a string of criminal activities, including kidnapping, car snatching, and armed robbery across remote areas in the state.
Their arrest was part of a coordinated effort by security operatives, including the military, civil defence, and other security agencies.
The State police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, announced the arrests in a statement released on Thursday.
He revealed that the operation stemmed from a follow-up investigation into a kidnapping incident reported in Aguata in 2023.
“In a collaborative effort by the military, civil defence, and other security forces, we apprehended two notorious members of a secessionist group involved in various criminal activities, including kidnapping and armed robbery,” Ikenga said.
“One of the suspects sustained a bullet wound on his leg, while the other, posing as a pastor, was found preparing criminal charms for the gang.”
The police spokesperson added that the suspects have been cooperative, providing crucial information about the gang’s operations.
“They have disclosed the location of a shrine where they prepare charms and have identified the whereabouts of some stolen vehicles,” Ikenga noted.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Itam, reassured the public of the command’s commitment to addressing criminal activities in the state.
“We are tirelessly working on all reported cases, especially those involving kidnapping and armed robbery, as we take seriously the trust placed in us to protect lives and property,” Itam stated.
Investigations are ongoing, and the police are making efforts to apprehend other members of the criminal gang.
