In 2024, the Anambra State Police Command apprehended 300 suspected criminals and achieved 30 convictions. This was disclosed by the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono-Itam (CP), during a press briefing at the command’s headquarters in Awka on Monday.
The CP highlighted several significant successes the command had achieved from January 2024 to the present, including cracking down on armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, child trafficking, public disturbances, and attacks on citizens, security personnel, government infrastructure, and other offenses. He noted that fourteen kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed, and over 43 unexploded improvised devices were recovered during the period.
Additionally, the command seized more than 100 firearms, including AK47 rifles, pump-action guns, locally made pistols, and other weapons. Over 2,900 rounds of ammunition were also confiscated. The police also recovered about 40 stolen vehicles and various motorcycles, among other items linked to ongoing investigations.
The CP pointed out that some of the suspects involved in violent incidents and unprovoked attacks on both security operatives and the public were neutralized in shootouts, while others were arrested during separate operations carried out by the police and joint security forces.
In another development, on Monday, the command rescued three children allegedly stolen from their parents in Bauchi State and sold in Anambra. Four suspects, including an illegal foster mother, were arrested. The suspects admitted to the crime and detailed their roles. One of the children has been identified, and efforts are underway to reunite the child with their parents.
Looking ahead to 2025, CP Obono-Itam emphasized that the command’s focus will be on consolidating its achievements in crime prevention and enhancing law and order to ensure the safety and security of Anambra’s residents. He expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, for their support. The CP also extended his thanks to sister agencies, the media, residents, Anambra State Vigilante operatives, civil society organizations, and others for their continued collaboration. He assured the people of Anambra that the police would intensify efforts to secure lives and property in the coming year.
