Major Security Breakthrough As Police Round Up 54 Suspects In Anambra

The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 54 suspects during a major security operation in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area. The suspects, made up of 39 men and 15 women, were apprehended in raids on identified black spots in the community.

Speaking at a press briefing, the command’s spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the suspects are currently undergoing screening and profiling, after which those found culpable will face prosecution.

Ikenga disclosed that operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS) also arrested a 25-year-old man, Chiderah Obochi, along the Old Onitsha–Awka Road in Enugwu-Ukwu, after he was found in possession of substances suspected to be cannabis. Upon interrogation, Obochi allegedly confessed to being a drug courier in Umudioka, Dunukofia Local Government Area, and led the police to the residence of a suspected accomplice, Ginika Okeke. Although Okeke was not at home, 11 bags of cannabis sativa, estimated to be worth about ₦10 million, were recovered from the premises.

The recovered drugs, according to the police, will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution. Ikenga added that the command is working on actionable intelligence to identify and arrest more drug dealers believed to be behind the distribution of harmful substances in the state.

He noted that the increasing involvement of youths in cultism and drug-related crimes can be linked partly to poor parental supervision and lack of proper guidance. In response, the police have intensified surveillance, patrols, and intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling drug networks and cult groups.

Ikenga emphasized that the command has adopted both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, including summoning individuals suspected of cult-related activities for questioning and carrying out targeted raids on drug hideouts.

“The abuse of hard drugs remains a major factor fueling violent crimes among youths,” he said, while assuring residents that the police under Commissioner Ikioye Orutugu remain committed to restoring law and order, safeguarding lives and property, and ensuring a secure environment for law-abiding citizens in Anambra State.