The Anambra State Police Command in Nigeria has apprehended two ringleaders of a cult group operating in the Ihiala local government area. Additionally, they successfully recovered two AK-47 rifles that were previously stolen from police installations.
Under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Aderemi Adeoye, a specialised operation conducted by the Police Crack Squad was deployed to Ihiala to ensure the safety of the community during and after the festive season. During this operation, Chitana Oha, a 25-year-old male, and Emmanuel Ifeanyi Okonkwo, a 24-year-old male, were apprehended at their hideout in Okija within the same local government area.
Police Public Relations Officer Mr. Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement released in Awka, confirmed the arrests and the recovery of the stolen firearms.
Commissioner Adeoye, determined to eradicate cult activity in Ihiala as he did in Awka, has instructed the Crack Squad to take decisive action against these criminal elements.
Assuring the public of their safety, Adeoye reiterated the commitment of the command to prioritise the security of residents.
In a separate development, the Anambra State Police Command has successfully retrieved two AK-47 rifles that were previously stolen from police facilities.
According to DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, one rifle was taken during an attack on Zone 13 Headquarters, Ukpo, in 2021, while the other was stolen from Area Command Headquarters, Ogidi, in a separate incident.
Intelligence efforts led to the discovery of the firearms concealed in Nnobi, Idemili South Local Government Area.
Commending the diligence of the operatives involved, Commissioner Adeoye pledged unwavering support until all perpetrators responsible for attacks on law enforcement are brought to justice.