The Anambra State Police Command has arrested five suspected armed robbers who disguised themselves as vigilante operatives to target passengers on a shuttle bus at Ring Road, Nibo, Awka South Local Government Area.
Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga said the suspects were apprehended by officers of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, following investigations into criminal conspiracy and armed robbery.
He revealed that officers recovered two pump-action guns, five live cartridges, an ash-coloured shuttle bus, face masks, number plates, and other incriminating items from the suspects.
“The suspects, all male, include Solomon Saddah, Okolocha George Kaosisochukwu, John Obi Ogwaju, Chukwuemeka Chisom Ikenwa, and Eze Obinna Joshua,” Ikenga said. “During interrogation, they admitted involvement in criminal activities and explained how they used the guise of vigilante personnel to rob passengers.”
Ikenga added that the suspects are cooperating with police to help uncover other criminal collaborators and networks. He assured residents that the state police command remains committed to protecting lives and property and urged the public to provide timely and credible information.
The arrests come shortly after a major police operation on December 17, when over 300 suspects linked to armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, secessionist activities, and other offences were apprehended.
The operation also led to the rescue of 35 kidnapped victims and recovery of over 2,000 arms and ammunition.
Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, attributed the success to innovative crime prevention strategies deployed by the command throughout the year.
