Anambra Police Arrest Suspected Kidnappers, Recover Arms And Ammunition
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 yesterday. 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, stated that 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: 6 automatic pump-action guns, 63 rounds of live ammunition,1 microscope, 5 machetes,1 military cap, 2 police teargas canisters, Handcuffs,1 robber's rocket launcher, Criminal charms,3 Motorola walkie-talkies,1 jack knife as well as 1 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.