By Michael Ovat -Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has recorded another operational success in its sustained efforts to combat crime and recover stolen property following the recovery of a Toyota Highlander Jeep allegedly stolen in Anambra State and subsequently traced to Calabar, Cross River State, through credible intelligence.
The recovery according to the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga in a statement in Awka, on Thursday was made on 16th October 2026 by operatives attached to the Central Police Station (CPS), Onitsha, who acted on credible intelligence regarding the vehicle’s whereabouts.
During the operation, the operatives also arrested a male suspect, identified as Muonago Chibuze, in connection with the incident.
He said preliminary information indicates that the Toyota Highlander Jeep, with registration number ENU 387 BB, was reportedly stolen on 9th October 2026. Following the incident, intelligence-led efforts by the Police culminated in the successful tracing and recovery of the vehicle in Calabar, Cross River State, demonstrating the importance of timely information gathering, proactive policing and effective inter-state collaboration in tackling vehicle theft and other forms of criminal activity.
The recovery underscores the Command’s commitment to ensuring that criminal activities are thoroughly investigated and that stolen property is recovered, irrespective of where such items may be taken. It also highlights the importance of sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated police operations in identifying and responding to criminal activities that may extend beyond state boundaries.
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, psc, mnips, has directed that the recovered vehicle be transferred to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, for further investigation and necessary action. The investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft, determine the suspect’s level of involvement and identify any other persons who may be connected to the incident.
The Command assures members of the public that it will continue to strengthen intelligence-led policing, enhance operational coordination among relevant police formations and collaborate with other security agencies where necessary to prevent and investigate crimes. These efforts remain part of the Command’s broader strategy to protect lives and property, disrupt criminal networks and improve public confidence in policing across Anambra State.
The Commissioner of Police further encourages members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities or information relating to stolen vehicles and other criminal acts to the nearest police station or through established police communication channels. The Command emphasises that credible information from members of the public remains a valuable component of effective crime prevention and detection.
The Anambra State Police Command reiterates its resolve to pursue all legitimate leads, recover stolen property and ensure that suspects are subjected to thorough investigation in accordance with the law. Members of the public are also urged to cooperate with the Police as the investigation progresses.
