Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Anambra State Police Command has recorded another significant breakthrough in its ongoing intelligence-led operations against violent crime, following the arrest of a 25-year-old male suspect, Emmanuel Chekwube Mark, by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu. This was contained in a statement signed by SP. Ikenga Tochukwu, Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Police Command, Awka.
The statement reads: “The suspect was arrested in the early hours of 27th August 2026, following credible intelligence. Items recovered during the operation include one locally fabricated pistol, two pump-action guns, and one military-pattern face cap.
“Preliminary investigation and interrogation revealed that the suspect is allegedly a member of a four-man armed robbery and kidnapping syndicate operating around the Ifite Awka axis of the State. The suspect further disclosed that he allegedly conspired with other members of the syndicate, who are currently at large, to kidnap unsuspecting members of the public within the area.
“The suspect also allegedly confessed to his involvement in the kidnapping of a victim on 22nd July 2026. According to his statement, the victim was dispossessed of his valuables and subsequently allegedly murdered, with his remains abandoned in a bush.
“The suspect further disclosed that he and other members of the syndicate usually operate with a tricycle, which they allegedly use to block their intended victims under the pretext that the victim had scratched or damaged the tricycle. The gang would then allegedly engage the victim in an argument, overpower the person at gunpoint and forcefully take the victim to their hideout at Umoji, Ebenebe, where the victims were allegedly tortured and dispossessed of their valuables.
“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, psc, mnips, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the case and directed the operatives to intensify efforts towards apprehending the fleeing accomplices and other members of the syndicate.
“The Command assures the people of Anambra State that it will continue to sustain intelligence-led and proactive operations aimed at preventing and dismantling armed robbery, kidnapping and other violent criminal activities across the State, ” it also added.
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