Paragraph 1: Successful Rescue Operation in Uli, Anambra State
The Anambra State Police Command, in collaboration with local vigilante groups, successfully rescued two kidnap victims in Uli, Ihiala Local Government Area. The victims, abducted on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at approximately 2 pm while traveling along the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway, were intercepted by armed men who forced them into another vehicle and fled the scene. The kidnappers abandoned the victims’ vehicle, which was later recovered by the police. Following an intensive search operation, the joint security team located and rescued the victims in the early hours of April 18, 2025. This swift action underscores the commitment of the Anambra State Police Command to ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors, particularly during festive periods like Easter.
Paragraph 2: Recovery of Weapons and Arrest of Suspects
During the rescue operation in Uli, the joint security team not only secured the release of the kidnap victims but also recovered a significant cache of weapons and other incriminating items. The recovered items include seven pump-action guns, seven live cartridges, three sets of handcuffs, a cutlass, an axe, and a dagger. These items provide crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation and could potentially lead to the apprehension of other individuals involved in the kidnapping operation. The police are actively pursuing leads to track down the remaining suspects and bring them to justice.
Paragraph 3: Proactive Policing Leads to Discovery of Concealed Firearms in Onitsha
In a separate incident on April 17, 2025, proactive policing efforts by officers attached to the Fegge Divisional Headquarters led to the discovery of concealed firearms in Onitsha. During a routine patrol along Port Harcourt Road, Upper Iweka, officers intercepted a suspiciously parked bus. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a bag of rice containing five pump-action guns, eight live cartridges, and two sets of handcuffs. The discovery highlights the importance of vigilant patrol operations in preventing crime and disrupting the flow of illegal weapons.
Paragraph 4: Arrest of Cultist and Kidnapper in Nkpor
Further demonstrating their commitment to combating crime, the Rapid Response Squad/Anti-Kidnapping Unit acted on credible intelligence to arrest a suspected cultist and kidnapper in Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area. On April 17, 2025, at approximately 1:27 pm, officers apprehended 25-year-old Israel Akachukwu and recovered two pump-action guns, two live cartridges, a cutlass, an axe, and a dagger from his residence. Akachukwu confessed to being a member of the Vikings Confraternity, a notorious cult group, and is cooperating with investigators to identify and apprehend other members of the gang.
Paragraph 5: Commissioner of Police Commends Public and Reinforces Security Measures
Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu commended the people of Anambra State for their law-abiding conduct and vigilance, urging them to remain security-conscious. He also emphasized the importance of community cooperation in maintaining peace and security. Orutugu’s message highlighted the spirit of Easter, encouraging residents to emulate Christ’s humility and selflessness while praying for the peace and security of the state and the nation. This appeal to community values reinforces the collaborative approach to security that has proven effective in recent operations.
Paragraph 6: Ongoing Investigations and Commitment to Public Safety
The Anambra State Police Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and visitors. Investigations into the kidnapping incident in Uli, the discovery of concealed firearms in Onitsha, and the arrest of the suspected cultist in Nkpor are ongoing. The police are actively pursuing all leads to apprehend remaining suspects and dismantle criminal networks operating within the state. The combined efforts of law enforcement agencies, vigilante groups, and the cooperation of the public are crucial in maintaining peace and order in Anambra State. The recent successes demonstrate the effectiveness of these collaborative efforts and the ongoing commitment to safeguarding the community.
