By Chizoba Njaka
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested five suspected members of a notorious armed robbery and kidnapping syndicate in a daring operation. The suspects were arrested following a tip-off about a victim who was abducted on his farmland at Isiagu, Awka, and later released after a ransom was paid.
According to an official statement issued in Awka by the Anambra Police Public Relation Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the suspects, identified as Michael Nwobodo, 30; Eze Friday, 29; Uche Okolo, 23; Chinedu Gilbert, 29; and Dominic Oraz, 38, a confessed deserter of the Nigerian Army, were arrested at their hideout in Notoko, Awka.
It revealed also that during the operation, the following exhibits were recovered from the suspects: six automatic pump-action guns, 63 rounds of live ammunition,one microscope, five machetes,one military cap, two police teargas canisters, handcuffs, one robber’s rocket launcher, criminal charms, three Motorola walkie-talkies,one jack knife as well as one power bank and N26,000 in cash.
During interrogation, Dominic Oraz, a suspect in custody, admitted to deserting the Nigerian Army in November 2024. Concurrently, the police have initiated comprehensive investigations and liaison with relevant authorities to inform their course of action and prosecution strategy for the other suspects.
This confession according to the statement, is a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the alleged activities of the suspects, who were apprehended for their suspected involvement in a notorious armed robbery and kidnapping syndicate.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for their bravery and urged residents to remain law-abiding and vigilant, reporting any suspicious activities to the police for prompt action.
CP Ikioye also assured the people of Anambra State of the command’s unwavering commitment to tackling violent crimes, reaffirming their dedication to maintaining public safety and security.
- Njaka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
Thanks you all for your hardwork and effort in the state.