Residents of Anambra State can heave a sigh of relief as police operatives have smashed a deadly kidnapping and armed robbery syndicate that has been terrorizing Awka and its environs.
In a dramatic midnight operation on September 1, 2025, officers of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Awkuzu stormed Amansea, Awka, and arrested four suspected gang members, according to a statement by Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.
SP. Ikenga noted that “the raid also led to the recovery of two pump-action rifles and nine live cartridges believed to have been used in their criminal operations.
“The suspects — Chigozie Igboekwu (31), Odumegwu Chibuike (23), Jonah Awudu (40), and Okechukwu Nwari (33) — have already confessed to their crimes.”
The Police also said the men admitted to abducting two victims on August 12, 2025, around 7:00 pm in Amansea.
“The victims were whisked into a bush in Ugwuoba, Enugu State, where they were held captive for two days before being released after paying a hefty ransom of ₦5 million.
“The case, first reported at B Division, Awka, on August 14, was transferred to the RRS for discreet investigation, which eventually led to the breakthrough,” Ikenga said.
Reacting to the arrests, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, PhD, praised the gallant operatives for their bravery and resilience.
“We are sending a strong message to all criminals: there is no hiding place in Anambra. The Command will stop at nothing to rid the state of kidnappers and armed robbers. Ndi Anambra should be assured that their safety remains our top priority,” CP Orutugu declared.
Ikenga, said the suspects would be charged to court at the conclusion of investigations. He added that a manhunt has been launched for other fleeing members of the syndicate.
With the police crackdown, residents say they now hope for a lasting end to the reign of fear that has gripped parts of the state in recent months.
