The Anambra State Police Command has successfully rescued two kidnap victims and apprehended a notorious cultist and kidnapper. The police also seized a cache of weapons, including seven pump-action guns and live cartridges, during their ongoing efforts to combat crime in the region.
The rescue operation took place in the early hours of 18th April 2025, as part of a coordinated effort by the Joint Security Team, which included operatives from Uli Police Divisional Headquarters and Uli Vigilantes.
According to the command, the victims were abducted by armed men on 13th April at Amorka Village along the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway. The armed gang had ambushed the victims’ vehicle, forcing the occupants into another vehicle before fleeing the scene, abandoning the original vehicle.
“The determination of our officers and the support from the community have led to the safe return of the victims,” stated SP Tochukwu Ikenga, Police Public Relations Officer for the Anambra State Police Command. “We are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice.”
In a separate incident on 17th April 2025, officers from Fegge Divisional Headquarters intercepted a suspicious bus parked along Port Harcourt Road, Upper Iweka, Onitsha. Upon searching the vehicle, they discovered a concealed bag of rice containing five pump-action guns, eight live cartridges, and two handcuffs. The police have secured both the firearms and the bus for further investigation.
“Our patrols are aimed at ensuring the safety of our citizens,” added SP Ikenga. “The discovery of these weapons highlights the importance of our vigilance in the community.”
Additionally, the Rapid Response Squad/Anti-Kidnapping Unit acted on credible intelligence leading to the arrest of a 25-year-old suspect, Israel Akachukwu, on the same day. During a search of his residence on Ezeigwe Street, Nkpor, the police recovered two pump-action guns, two live cartridges, a cutlass, a yellow axe, and a dagger. Akachukwu reportedly confessed to being a member of the Viking’s Confraternity and is cooperating with the police to apprehend other gang members.
“The fight against cultism and kidnapping is a top priority for us,” stated the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, who urged the citizens of Anambra State to remain vigilant and security-conscious. “I encourage everyone to embrace the virtues of humility and selflessness during this festive period and to pray for the peace and security of our state and nation.”
The Anambra State Police Command continues its operations to ensure the safety and security of all residents, with ongoing investigations into these recent incidents.
