The Anambra State Police Command has arrested 200 suspects believed to be terrorising the state, News About Nigeria reports.
The arrests were made within the first two months of CP Nnaghe Obono Itam’s tenure as the 34th Commissioner of Police in Anambra.
At a press briefing held at the command’s headquarters in Amawbia-Awka, Commissioner Itam shared details of the operation and the suspects’ parade.
“I want to welcome you all today, the 12th of July 2024, to Anambra State Police Command Headquarters, Awka. I give thanks to the Almighty God for His favour and mercies and to the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for finding me worthy to serve as the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Police Command, at this critical moment in our nation’s history,” Commissioner Itam began.
Itam noted that over 200 suspects had been arrested for various crimes, leading to five convictions so far.
The police have also rescued four kidnapped victims unharmed and recovered a huge cache of weapons, including 33 different brands of arms and 1,644 pieces of ammunition. Additionally, 27 stolen vehicles have been retrieved.
“We have embarked upon painstaking intelligence gathering through robust synergy with core sister security agencies, organised vigilante groups, and other stakeholders,” Itam said, praising the efforts of his team and the security-conscious Governor of the State, Chukwuma Soludo.
The Commissioner noted that training programmes are ongoing for officers to improve operational proficiency, as is the organisation of a security summit involving informal security sectors such as vigilante groups and hunters.
Commissioner Itam acknowledged the challenges of professional misconduct within the force and stressed that measures are being taken to address these issues.
The “Complaint Response Unit” has been resuscitated to ensure personnel comply with the ethics of their job.
Appreciating the support from the Judiciary and the Anambra State Government, Itam pointed out the recently signed Anti-Cultism Law, which imposes stringent penalties on cult-related activities and harassment.
Itam called on the media to play a constructive role in reporting incidents and maintaining peace and security in the state.
He urged journalists to verify information with the Public Relations Department of the Command before sharing content related to the police on social media.
“For those who have been misled to take to crime, you are warned to retrace your steps as the command is poised to deal squarely with any acts of criminality without regard for status,” Itam cautioned.
During the parade and briefing, a variety of confiscated items, including AK47s, pump-action guns, live ammunition, hard drugs, and army uniforms, were displayed for the journalists.
