The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a four-man gang notorious for robbing residents and students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, of their phones and valuables.
Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Akwuzu, intercepted the gang in the early hours of August 25, 2025, while on night patrol along the Agu Awka/Ifite Awka axis. The suspects were nabbed while operating with a tricycle.
The arrested suspects were identified as Nnaji Chidera (19), Chijioke Mmaduabuchi (21), Wisdom Ogbonna (19), and Afamefuna Egbe (20).
According to police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga, items recovered from the suspects include nine mobile phones – among them an iPhone belonging to a victim – a laptop, two tricycles with registration numbers LSD 464 QP and BLF 552 VH, four different tricycle plate numbers, and a substance suspected to be hard drugs.
“Upon interrogation, the suspects confessed to being part of a criminal syndicate that specialises in robbing students within the Awka axis,” Ikenga said. “They further revealed that the multiple tricycle plate numbers found with them were used to disguise their operational vehicles during armed robbery.”
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for their swift action and reassured the public of the Command’s commitment to safety.
He also issued a stern warning to criminal elements, saying: “The Command will not relent in ensuring that criminals face the full weight of the law.”
