Law enforcement storms separatist base, seizes cache of powerful weapons in Anambra

The Anambra State Police Command has successfully raided a secessionist camp in Owerre-Ezukala, Orumba South Local Government Area, resulting in the recovery of sophisticated arms and ammunition, according to the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, who disclosed this information during a press briefing on Wednesday.

n

The operation is part of the command's ongoing security offensives across criminal flashpoints in the state, amid efforts to curb rising incidents of violent attacks, cult-related killings, kidnappings, and separatist-linked violence in parts of Anambra State and the South-East region.

n

Orutugu stated that the command carried out strategic clearance operations on May 7, targeting a camp that had earlier been destroyed by a joint security team, but some escaped gang members attempted to regroup at the location.

n

He noted that the operation was informed by the confession of Nnamdi Ogbonna, a 37-year-old male and alleged top commander of the proscribed secessionists group, who is in custody, as well as intelligence received over time.

n

The offensive operation led to the recovery of one General Purpose Machine Gun with about 2,000 rounds of live chain ammunition, two fabricated rocket launchers with 25 propellers, 10 locally-made Improvised Explosive Devices, one locally-made Beretta pistol, two pump-action guns, three hand grenades, 10 rounds of K2 live ammunition, one gas cylinder, and one black Ecolac box.

n

The operatives also dislodged the armed criminals and sustained operational dominance in the area to prevent any regrouping, according to the CP.

n

Additionally, police operatives acting on credible intelligence arrested a suspect identified as Favour Izunna, also known as “Njoku,” aged 22, who is allegedly a member of the Vikings Confraternity cult group.

n

The arrest led to the recovery of one pump-action gun, seven live cartridges, one locally-made Beretta pistol, and five rounds of 7.5mm live ammunition, and the suspect confessed to being one of the executioners of the dreaded cult groups.

n

The suspect allegedly participated in many killings, including those of Emeka Chukwuka, a male, and Chinelo Onyeka, a female, among others in Obosi and its environs, and efforts are ongoing to arrest other fleeing gang members and dismantle the criminal network associated with the suspect.

n

The Command has also secured the remand of five suspects at the Correctional Centre over various cases involving sexual offences and child abuse in Awka, including a father alleged to have engaged in an unlawful sexual relationship with his biological daughter in Oko.

n

Other suspects linked to child abuse and related offences are also being held, according to the CP.

n

Highlighting other achievements of the command in recent months, Orutugu said police operatives arrested a female suspect, Chinazo Winners Anyasirikwu, over alleged child trafficking activities in Aguata Local Government Area.

n

The operation led to the rescue of 12 children aged between one and 20 years, comprising seven girls and five boys believed to be victims of child stealing and trafficking, and the children have been placed under protective care while investigations continue.

n

The Command remains committed to protecting children and dismantling all forms of human trafficking and exploitation within the state, according to Orutugu.

n

The Anambra State Police Command reiterates its commitment to sustaining ongoing operations against all forms of criminality and ensuring the safety and security of Ndi Anambra, and urges residents to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and continue to support security agencies with credible and timely information.

n

The Command appreciates the support of the Inspector-General of Police, the Anambra State Government, sister security agencies, community leaders, and the good people of the State for their cooperation and partnership in the fight against crime.

n

Together, the CP added, they shall continue to strengthen security, uphold justice, and make Anambra State increasingly hostile to criminals.