The Anambra State Police Command says it has arrested 200 suspects for various crimes and secured 100 convictions between February and August this year.
Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, disclosed that the arrests were linked to offenses such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and cult-related activities. He added that the Command also recovered over 300 firearms, 1,000 rounds of ammunition, more than 30 vehicles, and 20 explosives during operations across the state.
A key development within the period was the re-arrest of a suspect connected to the kidnap and murder of Justice Azuka, the Labour Party lawmaker representing Onitsha 1 Constituency. Orutugu described the achievements as evidence of improved operational efficiency and warned that perpetrators of violent crimes would not escape justice.
The Commissioner highlighted the launch of Operation Zero Kidnapping, a joint effort with other security agencies, which has significantly reduced abduction cases and restored public confidence. In addition, the Command adopted an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) approach to resolve communal crises, including mediating the long-standing boundary conflict between Ikenga and Isiokwe villages in Umueri and Aguleri.
To strengthen grassroots security, vigilance operatives across the state received training on lawful conduct, crime scene management, and intelligence gathering. The Command also ensured a hitch-free visit by President Bola Tinubu on May 9 and coordinated security for the August 16 by-election.
Looking ahead, Orutugu confirmed that the police are fully prepared for the November 8 governorship election in the state, noting that security arrangements have already been aligned with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Orutugu assumed office as Anambra’s 35th Commissioner of Police on February 10.