In a sweeping crackdown on crime, the Anambra State Police Command has recorded major successes over the past six months, recovering over 300 firearms, 20 explosives, and 1,000 rounds of ammunition. The command also confiscated more than 30 vehicles linked to criminal activities, destroyed five notorious criminal camps, and arrested over 200 suspects, including cultists, separatist agitators, and armed robbers.
Additionally, more than 100 convictions were secured for crimes such as sexual assault, armed robbery, and kidnapping, underscoring the command’s determination to rid the state of violent criminal elements.
Addressing journalists at a press briefing held in Awka on Tuesday, CP Ikioye Orutugu said the command had made tremendous progress in restoring public confidence, dismantling criminal gangs, and enhancing cooperation with sister security agencies.
Upon assuming office six months ago, the CP said he was confronted with pressing security challenges, including the case of a high-profile suspect implicated in the kidnapping and murder of Honourable Justice Azuka, who had escaped from custody.
“We made a firm commitment to restore public confidence in policing and ensure Anambra remains safe for all residents and visitors,” Orutugu stated.
In response to the growing threat of kidnappings and violent crimes, the Command launched Operation Zero Kidnapping, a joint initiative with other security agencies. According to the CP, the operation has been instrumental in “disrupting the activities of criminal gangs and bringing the kidnapping rate to zero.”
Over the past six months, the command has achieved the following: Recovery of over 300 firearms, 20 explosives, and 1,000 rounds of ammunition, confiscation of over 30 vehicles linked to criminal activities, destruction of five notorious criminal camps across the state, arrest of over 200 suspects, including cultists, separatist agitators, and armed robbers, and more than 100 convictions secured for crimes ranging from sexual assault and armed robbery to kidnapping.
One of the major breakthroughs recorded was the re-arrest of the fugitive suspect behind the kidnapping and murder of Justice Azuka.
“This milestone demonstrates our resolve to ensure that perpetrators of heinous crimes are brought to justice, no matter how long it takes,” the CP declared.
The CP highlighted efforts to resolve communal disputes through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), citing the successful intervention in the boundary dispute between Ikenga and Isiokwe villages in Umueri and Aguleri, among others.
The Command also worked closely with the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) to strengthen police-community relations through skill acquisition programs, economic empowerment initiatives for women, counselling services for officers’ families, and community outreach programs.
Additionally, the command organized training sessions for vigilante operatives to enhance their effectiveness in crime prevention, focusing on intelligence sharing, lawful conduct, and proper handling of suspects.
CP Orutugu praised officers for successfully maintaining law and order during key events, including a state by-election and the visit of the President of Nigeria to Anambra.
“Residents now conduct ceremonies and public gatherings without fear of security threats,” he noted.
The command also undertook infrastructure upgrades, renovating critical facilities such as the Rapid Response Squad base in Akwuzu and Aminchi Police Station, alongside other police formations across the state.
In recognition of its efforts, the Anambra State Command was named Best Crime-Busting Command of the Year by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council.
While acknowledging that challenges remain, the CP expressed optimism that sustained collaboration and professionalism would further strengthen security across Anambra.
“Our results so far reaffirm that with community trust and unwavering dedication, we can keep Anambra safe,” he concluded.
The press briefing ended with commendations for officers, sister security agencies, and the people of Anambra for their unwavering support in the fight against crime.
