A joint operation conducted by the Police from the Oba Divisional Police Headquarters in collaboration with Anambra Vigilante Operatives have led to the arrest of six individuals accused of hiring sick persons to beg for alms from the public.
A statement by the Anambra State Police Spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga said; “The operation took place at approximately 6:30 pm in an uncompleted building at Isu village, Oba.”
Ikenga disclosed that the arrested suspects have been identified as Doris Basil, 28, Peter Ezedike, 38, Susan Monday, 27, Ogechi Okoro, 27, Solomon Sunday, 29, and Kenneth Achi, 29.
“During the raid, authorities also recovered six mobile phones and a total of eighty-two thousand, four hundred naira (₦82,400) in various denominations.
“In addition to the arrests, the joint team provided immediate first aid to four individuals who appeared to be suffering from serious illnesses, including brain tumours and breast cancer. The team has committed to seeking further medical intervention for these individuals and facilitating their safe return to their families.
Ikenga also stated that the Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu expressed grave concerns regarding the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
“Section 419 of the Nigerian Criminal Code Act addresses obtaining property by false pretence, a serious offence that could lead to three years imprisonment,” he stated.
He highlighted the moral decay evident in those who take advantage of sick persons, and he has directed an immediate investigation into the relatives of the affected individuals to determine their involvement.
“The suspects will be charged in court upon the completion of ongoing investigations,” the statement reads.
