By Izunna Okafor Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has disclosed that no fewer than 300 suspects linked to kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, rape, violent crimes and other serious offences were arrested across the state in 2025, as security operatives also recovered explosives, arms, ammunition, stolen vehicles and other dangerous items during sustained operations.
The State Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc MNIPS PhD, made the disclosure on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, while addressing journalists during a press briefing at the State Police Command Headquarters in Awka, as part of activities marking the end of the year.
Flanked by some senior officers of the Command, CP Orutugu noted that although the Police have not yet attained the ideal level of total security, the cooperation, trust and timely support from Ndi Anambra played a major role in the significant successes recorded during the year under review.
According to him, crime patterns fluctuated at different times in 2025 due to prevailing socio-economic realities and evolving security challenges nationwide. However, the CP stressed that proactive policing, intelligence-led operations, improved response time, enhanced visibility patrols and strengthened community partnerships helped the Command to achieve a noticeable reduction in violent crimes, cult-related activities, armed robbery and kidnapping in most parts of the state.
He further explained that the Command disrupted several kidnapping syndicates operating across different local government areas, dismantled criminal hideouts and black spots through sustained raids, strengthened community policing structures, and deepened collaboration with sister security agencies, leading to several operational breakthroughs with the you.
CP Orutugu revealed that these collective efforts resulted in incident-free major activities in the state, including the official visit of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the successful conduct of the governorship and local government elections, and the gradual return of normal social life in previously affected areas such as Ihiala, where weddings, birthdays and other community events are now held without intimidation or harassment.
Providing further details, the Police Commissioner disclosed that through intelligence-driven operations and swift responses by the Joint Security Team comprising the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Agụnaechemba and other security operatives, the Command rescued 35 kidnapped victims and recovered over 2,000 arms and ammunition, including explosives and other dangerous items.
He added that more than 60 stolen vehicles, including motorcycles, were recovered, while several criminal cases were successfully prosecuted, leading to convictions.
Among the major highlights of the Command’s achievements, CP Orutugu cited the re-arrest of suspects involved in the killing of the late Hon. Justice Azuka in Onitsha, including the gang leader. He also confirmed the arrest of suspects responsible for the murder of three Cameroonian nationals, as well as the recovery of the victims’ bodies.
The Commissioner acknowledged that the Command faced challenges during the year, particularly the evolving tactics of criminal elements, as well as occasional resistance, misinformation and non-cooperation from some members of the public. He, however, emphasized that these challenges have only strengthened the resolve of the Police to improve strategies and operational effectiveness going forward.
As the festive season approaches, CP Orutugu assured residents that robust security measures have been put in place across the state to ensure a peaceful celebration. He further reiterated the warning that the use of knock-out and other social explosives remains prohibited in Anambra State, further urging residents to remain vigilant, promptly report suspicious movements, comply with traffic regulations, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, secure homes and valuables before travelling, and use only designated motor parks.
The Police Commissioner expressed deep appreciation to the Anambra State Government for its continuous support, sister security agencies for sustained cooperation, traditional rulers, religious leaders, town unions and community vigilante groups for their partnership, and the media for responsible reportage. He also commended Ndi Anambra for their trust, timely information sharing and support, including contributions toward rehabilitating several police facilities such as the Rapid Response Squad Awkuzu, Ogidi Division, Amichi Division, Main Market Onitsha and other formations.
Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to a safer Anambra State, CP Orutugu assured that the Police will continue to strengthen capacity, deepen community partnerships and intensify operations to ensure that residents feel protected at all times.
He concluded by wishing Ndi Anambra a peaceful Christmas celebration and a prosperous New Year in advance.
