Anambra State Police neutralises Gang leader, rescues kidnapped victims

The Anambra State Police Command said it has neutralised a gang leader of suspected gunmen operating in the state. 

The Police who gave the name of the gang leader, Chinedu Ajoku, popularly known as Sambolo, also noted that four kidnapped victims were rescued. 

The state’s Public Relations Officer, (PPRO) DSP Tochukwu Ikenga made this known while briefing newsmen in the state today. 

The PPRO explained that the police received a distress call and immediately deployed personnel to rescue the situation. He said the leader was naturalised during a gun duel. 

“Based on intelligence gathering which indicates the location of a kidnapped victim in Nneni, Anaocha Local Government Area,

(LGA) police operatives working with the vigilante stormed the location on Sunday, June 5, and rescued four victims within the bracket of 40 to 60 years. 

“We also arrested one Emeka who was suspected of complicity in the crime. Upon interrogation, he confessed to the crime and led detectives to the hideout of his gang in Oba, Idemili North LGA, where detectives engaged the gangsters in a shootout. 

“The gang leader, Chinedu Ajoku, a.k.a Sambolo were gunned down and five others including their native doctors were arrested for interrogation and prosecution.

“The following items were recovered, one SMG rifle, One Beretta pistol, two locally-made revolver pistols, one Dagger, One Biafra flag, two pairs of ESN uniforms, two berets, two web, belts, assorted charms, one Acura SUV snatched from a Reverend Father in Awgbu on May 31. 

“Suspects arrested are being interrogated to elicit information on their involvement in previous crimes.”

While seeking adequate collaboration from the general public, DSP Ikenga commended some individuals who are providing vital information leading to their fight against insecurity. 

According to him, the conspiracy of silence has died. People are now giving information and the investigation is still ongoing.

Dominica Nwabufo