The Anambra State Police Command has announced significant breakthroughs in its crime-fighting efforts in 2025, recording the arrest of more than 300 suspects involved in various violent and criminal activities across the state.
The arrests, according to the Command, cut across offences such as kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, rape and other serious crimes. Security operatives also recovered a large cache of weapons, ammunition, explosives, stolen vehicles and other dangerous items during sustained operations throughout the year.
Briefing journalists on Wednesday at the Police Command Headquarters in Awka, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, said the achievements were recorded despite fluctuating crime patterns influenced by socio-economic pressures and evolving security challenges nationwide.
CP Orutugu disclosed that intelligence-led operations, combined with rapid response by the Police and sister security agencies, including the state’s security outfits, Agunechemba and Udogachi, led to the rescue of 35 kidnapped victims and the recovery of over 2,000 arms and ammunition.
He noted that while the Command has not yet attained its ultimate goal of total security, the cooperation and timely support of residents played a critical role in the successes recorded.
“Community trust and collaboration were instrumental in disrupting criminal activities across the state,” the Commissioner said.
Among the Command’s major accomplishments, CP Orutugu listed the dismantling of several kidnapping syndicates operating in different local government areas, the destruction of criminal hideouts, and the re-arrest of suspects involved in the killing of late Hon. Justice Azuka in Onitsha, including the alleged gang leader.
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He also highlighted the arrest of suspects linked to the murder of three Cameroonian nationals, as well as the recovery of the victims’ bodies.
The Police boss, however, acknowledged challenges encountered during the year, including the changing tactics of criminal elements, misinformation, resistance and non-cooperation from some members of the public.
“These challenges have only reinforced our determination to refine our strategies and improve operational effectiveness in the year ahead,” he said.
Reiterating the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, CP Orutugu assured residents that the Anambra State Police Command would continue to build capacity, strengthen community partnerships and intensify security operations to ensure a safer environment for all.
