REPORTER: IFEANYI CHINWUKO
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The Anambra State Police Command says it has arrested a 25-year-old male suspect, Emmanuel Chekwube Mark.
The suspect was arrested by the operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu.
A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer in the State, Mr Tochukwu Ikenga says that items recovered during the operation included one locally fabricated pistol, two pump-action guns, and one military-pattern face cap.
The statement notes that preliminary investigation and interrogation revealed that the suspect is allegedly a member of a four-man robbery and kidnapping syndicate operating around the Ifite Awka axis of the state.
The suspect disclosed that he allegedly conspired with other members of the syndicate who are currently at large to kidnap unsuspecting members of the public within the area.
He also allegedly confessed to his involvement in the kidnapping of a victim on 22nd July, 2026 who was dispossessed of his valuables and later murdered with his remains abandoned in a bush.
According to the statement, the suspect further disclosed that he and other members of the syndicate usually operate with a tricycle, which they allegedly use to block their intended victims under the pretext that the victim had scratched or damaged the tricycle.
The gang would then allegedly engage the victim in an argument, overpower the person at gunpoint and forcefully take the victim to their hideout at Umoji, Ebenebe, Awka North LGA where the victims were allegedly tortured and dispossessed of their valuables.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Nnanna Ama has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the case and directed the operatives to intensify efforts towards apprehending the fleeing accomplices and other members of the syndicate.
The Command assures the people of Anambra State that it will continue to sustain intelligence-led and proactive operations aimed at preventing and dismantling armed robbery, kidnapping and other violent criminal activities across the state.
