The Police Command in Anambra State have dismantled an armed robbery syndicate that allegedly posed as vigilante operatives to rob unsuspecting commuters in Awka South Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that five suspects were arrested at Ring Road, Nibo, following intelligence-led investigations by the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu.
According to the police, officers recovered two pump-action guns, five live cartridges, an ash-coloured shuttle bus, face masks, vehicle number plates, and other incriminating items believed to have been used in the commission of the offences.
“The suspects, all male, include Solomon Saddah, Okolocha George Kaosisochukwu, John Obi Ogwaju, Chukwuemeka Chisom Ikenwa, and Eze Obinna Joshua,” the statement read. Data from the police indicated that the group would travel in the shuttle bus, presenting themselves as vigilante personnel before robbing passengers along their routes.
During interrogation, the suspects reportedly “made useful statements admitting involvement in criminal activities and revealed how they operated in a shuttle bus under the guise of vigilante personnel to commit offences.”
SP Ikenga further stated, “They are currently cooperating with the police and providing information to help uncover other criminal collaborators and networks.”
Reassuring residents, he added that the Anambra State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state, urging the public to continue providing timely and credible information that can assist security efforts.
The police spokesperson also noted that additional updates on the suspects and the investigation would be communicated as the matter develops.
This latest arrest comes amid intensified security operations in the state. Just days earlier, more than 300 suspects linked to various serious crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and secessionist activities, were reportedly detained, with 35 kidnapped victims rescued and over 2,000 arms and ammunition recovered, the command said.
