By Michael Ovat
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested five suspected members of a criminal gang and recovered large quantities of suspected illicit drugs valued at ₦1,450,000, (One Million Four Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira), a fake United States $100 note, vandalized electrical wires and ₦72,550.00 in cash during a raid on a suspected criminal hideout in Njikoka Local Government Area of the State.
According to the Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga who disclosed this in a statement in Awka on Saturday, the operation was carried out on 20th August 2026, by operatives of the Command attached to the Rapid Response Squad Awkuzu, who stormed the suspected criminal hideout located at Nawfia, Njikoka LGA at about 12:48 p.m.
“Five male suspects were arrested during the raid. They are: Omogo Obinna, 29 years old, Okechukwu Nwagba, 28 years old, Echezona Okonkwo, 29 years old, Awal Umar, 23 years old and Ogadinma Boniface, 33 years old respectively.
“Items recovered from the suspects include: substantial quantities of substances suspected to be Cannabis Sativa (Indian Hemp), Canadian Loud, Black Mamba, Colorado and Loud of monetary as well as vandalised electrical wires, ₦72,550.00 cash, and a suspected counterfeit United States $100 note.
Preliminary investigation indicates that the suspects are members of a criminal network operating within the area. The suspects have reportedly made useful statements to the Police and mentioned the names of other alleged members of the gang.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, commended the operatives for the successful operation and directed that the investigation be pursued thoroughly and professionally.
He further ordered intensified efforts to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang and ensure that all persons found to have participated in the criminal activities are brought to justice.
The Command assures residents of its continued commitment to tackling drug-related crimes, vandalism and other forms of criminality across the State. Members of the public are equally encouraged to continue providing credible and timely information to the Police, as community cooperation remains vital to keeping Anambra safe.
