Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, Anambra State Police Command, have arrested four suspected members of a notorious armed robbery and kidnapping gang, recovering two pump-action rifles and nine live cartridges in the process.
The suspects: Chigozie Igboekwu (31), Odumegwu Chibuike (23), Jonah Awudu (40), and Okechukwu Nwari (33) were apprehended in Amansea, Awka, following credible intelligence on a kidnap case where victims had been held in Ugwuoba, Enugu State, until a ransom of ₦5 million was paid.
Police investigations revealed that the gang abducted two victims on August 12, 2025, kept them in a forest hideout for two days, and released them after collecting ransom. The suspects have reportedly confessed to the crime.
Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, praised the operatives for their resilience, assuring residents of the command’s determination to rid the state of criminal gangs.
He further disclosed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate while the arrested suspects will be charged to court at the conclusion of investigations.