In a bold move against crime, police operatives in Anambra State have arrested two suspected kidnappers and recovered a cache of weapons, marking another milestone in the fight against abduction and violent crimes in the region.
According to the Anambra State Police Command, the arrests were carried out by officers from the Rapid Response Squad/Anti-Kidnapping Unit (RRS/AKU) as part of their ongoing security operation codenamed Operation Udo Ga Achi Zero Kidnapping.
The suspects, identified as 52-year-old Celestine Onuyia and 45-year-old Jacinta Okolo Udenka, were both apprehended in Oba, located in Idemili South Local Government Area.
Following a tip-off, the police recovered a significant stockpile of arms from the duo, including one Pump Action rifle, seven single-barrel Dane guns, and 28 live cartridges.
During further interrogation, the suspects revealed the location of a criminal hideout in Omasi, Ayamelum LGA, leading to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles and two empty magazines.
Spokesperson of the Command, SP Tochuckwu Ikenga, disclosed that the suspects are believed to be connected to a kidnapping case from July 2024 in Nnewi, during which a ransom of N17.5 million was allegedly paid before the victim was released.
Celestine, the male suspect, is said to double as a native doctor, allegedly providing protective charms and storing weapons for the criminal gang. Jacinta, on the other hand, reportedly helped the group by gathering information on potential victims.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to following every case through to a logical end, emphasizing the importance of dismantling criminal networks to ensure lasting peace across the state.
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