By Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested one Chukwuma Obi, a 32-year-old male from Umuagu Village, Igboukwu, Aguata Local Government Area, in connection with an alleged case of attempted kidnapping and extortion.
The Authority Newspaper reports that the arrest was made on December 24, 2024, by operatives of the Anti-Cultism Squad, Enugu-Ukwu.
In a statement by SP Tochukwu Ikenga, Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Police Command
Awka, the suspect is accused of demanding a ransom of one million, two hundred thousand naira (#1,200,000) through threats of abduction.
The statement read in part: “The victim reported receiving a menacing message from an individual claiming to be a member of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), threatening abduction unless the demanded ransom was paid into a specified account.
“During interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime and is currently assisting the Police in identifying and apprehending other members of the gang involved in the criminal activities.
“This arrest follows a similar case late last month, where the Command apprehended a couple specializing in sending threatening messages and extorting victims under the guise of planned abductions. The couple confessed to their crimes and admitted to destroying SIM cards used in their illicit activities.
“The Commissioner of Police, _CP Nnaghe Obono Itam reiterated the Command’s commitment to pursuing all cases to a conclusive end to ensure that suspects are apprehended and justice is served. He emphasized that such efforts are vital in preventing further criminal activities and ensuring the safety and security of residents.
“The Anambra State Police Command continues to urge the public to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through its emergency lines”.
This is coming as the Nigeria Police, Anambra State command in a statement said it had in the early hours of December 24, 2024, through a joint security operation led by the Nigeria Police Force and comprising the Military, Civil Defence, and Anambra Vigilante operatives successfully dismantled a criminal camp located in Nimo, Njikoka Local Government Area.
“The operation resulted in the destruction of several makeshift structures within the camp, the recovery of 19 unexploded improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and inflicted significant injuries on fleeing suspects.
“This decisive action followed credible intelligence on the activities of the criminal gang in the area, coupled with information obtained during the interrogation of suspects arrested in ongoing police operations across the state.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam commends the synergy between the security agencies and the vigilance of the public in providing actionable intelligence. He emphasizes the importance of continued collaboration to ensure the safety and security of all residents during and after the festive season.
“In light of this development, the Commissioner of Police strongly urges all proprietors of private and public hospitals to immediately report any individual presenting with bullet wounds or injuries of a suspicious nature to the nearest police station. This measure is critical to the ongoing effort to apprehend fleeing suspects and prevent further criminal activity.
“The Anambra State Police Command assures the public of its unwavering commitment to maintaining security dominance through sustained patrols and targeted operations aimed at ensuring a peaceful yuletide season for all”.
