The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, has announced significant successes recorded by the command in tackling crime across the state. Addressing journalists at the State Police Command Headquarters in Awka, the CP provided updates on major security incidents and law enforcement efforts.
One of the most shocking cases in recent months was the abduction and subsequent murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly representing Onitsha North Constituency 1. The lawmaker was kidnapped on December 24, 2024, in Onitsha.
Following weeks of intense intelligence gathering and investigations, a joint security operation comprising the police and the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG) was launched to rescue him. However, in the early hours of February 6, 2025, the security team discovered his lifeless body at the Second Niger Bridge.
The police immediately swung into action, and in a swift joint operation with the AVG, they arrested nine suspects believed to be involved in the crime. During the operation, a gun battle ensued, leading to one suspect sustaining a gunshot injury. Two pump-action guns were recovered from the suspects.
The arrested individuals were identified as:
Ugochukwu Onuorah (30)
Ikemefuna Ossai (20)
Ikenna Orugu (27)
Chibuike Obiefuna (19)
Chinonso Olisa (19)
Chinedu Okoli (21)
David Ojini (25)
Peter Sunday (20), described as the most notorious among them, with a tattoo reading “No peace 4 d Government” on his chest.
Additionally, police operatives arrested another suspected kidnapper, Chidiebere Nwosu, in Uruagu, Nnewi, and neutralized members of his gang involved in the October 3, 2024, attack on the Rapid Response Squad.
The Commissioner also highlighted the destruction of multiple criminal hideouts and neutralization of over 100 notorious criminals in areas such as Ufuma, Eziowelle, Achalla, and Ogbaru.
CP Itam expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, for his leadership and support, as well as Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, sister security agencies, vigilante groups, civil society organizations, and the residents of Anambra for their cooperation in improving security.
He reassured the public that the police remain committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state.
