The Anambra State Police Command has embarked on a robust initiative to combat crime, with a commitment to reduce criminal activity by 30 percent by 2025.
Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono Itam, made this announcement on Monday during a press briefing at the police headquarters in Awka, where he outlined the command’s achievements in the battle against crime in 2024.
The police commissioner urged stakeholders across the state, particularly community leaders, including the Igwes and presidents of various communities, to partner with law enforcement for more effective policing.
He emphasised that securing public cooperation is essential in achieving the ambitious reduction in crime rates.
During the briefing, Itam highlighted significant operational successes from the past year, including the arrest of over 325 criminal suspects involved in various crimes such as murder, kidnapping, and cult-related activities. Notably, among those arrested was “Pablo,” a notorious kidnapper who had terrorised communities in Ihiala, as well as parts of Enugu and Delta States.
In a concerted effort against criminal activities, law enforcement officials recovered a large cache of arms, including more than 100 firearms, 43 unexploded improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and nearly 3,000 rounds of ammunition. The police also managed to rescue 14 kidnapping victims and secured 15 convictions tied to these cases.
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Furthermore, Itam disclosed that while conducting operations in December, officials dismantled a criminal camp in Nimo, Njikoka Local Government Area, and destroyed makeshift structures used by criminals. This operation was carried out based on credible intelligence, which also led to the interrogation of suspects in custody.
The police commissioner reported that operatives of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad had arrested an 18-year-old identified as Miracle Mwakalor, who was found in possession of an AK-47 rifle. Although some of his accomplices managed to evade capture, Mwakalor’s arrest has facilitated further investigations into gang activities in the region.
In addition to combating violent crime, the Anambra Police Command has also made efforts to rescue children who had been abducted and sold into trafficking. Three children believed to have been stolen from their parents in Bauchi State were found, and authorities are appealing for the public’s assistance in identifying these children to reunite them with their families.
Itam called upon the media and the public to support this initiative by disseminating photographs of the rescued children to facilitate identification and reunification. He reiterated the importance of following proper adoption processes to prevent child trafficking and exploitation.
The Commissioner of Police expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for their unwavering support, assuring the public of the police’s commitment to maintaining law and order and enhancing community safety.
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