By Deborah Nnamdi
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested five suspected fake armed vigilante operatives allegedly involved in criminal conspiracy and armed robbery in Awka and its environs, as part of efforts to maintain public safety during the Yuletide season.
The suspects were arrested by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, at Ring Road, Nibo, Awka, following ongoing investigations into reported cases of armed robbery and related crimes in the area.
Confirming the arrest in a statement on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, said the operation led to the recovery of two pump-action guns, five live cartridges, an ash-coloured shuttle bus, face masks, a vehicle plate number and other incriminating items.
According to him, the suspects identified as Solomon Saddah, Okolocha George Kaosisochukwu, John Obi Ogwaju, Chukwuemeka Chisom Ikenwa and Eze Obinna Joshua, all males, confessed to their involvement in criminal activities during interrogation.
SP Ikenga explained that the suspects admitted to operating under the guise of vigilante personnel while using a shuttle bus to carry out attacks on unsuspecting residents within Awka and surrounding communities.
“The suspects made useful statements, admitting their involvement in criminal activities and revealing their mode of operation, which involved disguising as vigilante operatives to unleash havoc on innocent members of the public,” he said.
He added that the suspects are currently cooperating with investigators and providing information that could lead to the arrest of other members of the criminal network and their collaborators.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Anambra State Police Command to public safety, the police spokesperson assured residents that the Command remains resolute in protecting lives and property across the state, particularly during the festive period.
He urged members of the public to continue supporting the police by providing timely and credible information to aid crime prevention and detection, noting that further developments on the case would be communicated in due course.
