Anambra Police Credit Intelligence-Led Policing For Drop In Kidnapping As 35 Victims Rescued
Sustained security pressure and closer community engagement have continued to yield results in Anambra State, with police authorities reporting a marked decline in kidnapping and other violent crimes in 2025.
The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, disclosed this while briefing journalists at the State Police Command Headquarters in Awka, saying the command had rescued 35 kidnap victims during the year through coordinated security operations.
Orutugu attributed the gains to proactive and intelligence-driven policing, improved response time, visibility patrols and stronger partnerships with communities and sister security agencies.
He said several kidnapping syndicates were dismantled across different local government areas, with criminal hideouts and black spots destroyed.
According to him, joint operations involving the Police, DSS, Nigerian Army, Navy, NSCDC, Immigration Service and local security outfits led to the arrest of more than 300 suspects, the recovery of over 2,000 arms and ammunition, including explosives, and the retrieval of more than 60 stolen vehicles and motorcycles.
The commissioner said the improved security climate ensured the peaceful conduct of major events in the state, including presidential visits and elections, while normal social activities have gradually returned to previously troubled areas such as Ihiala.
He also confirmed the re-arrest of suspects, including the alleged gang leader, linked to the killing of the late Hon. Justice Azuka in Onitsha, as well as the arrest of those responsible for the murder of three Cameroonian nationals.
While acknowledging ongoing challenges such as evolving criminal tactics and misinformation, Orutugu said lessons learnt would inform improved strategies in the coming year.
He announced heightened security measures ahead of the festive season and warned that the use of knock-out substances and other prohibited items would not be tolerated.
The police chief thanked the state government, security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, the media and residents for their support, assuring Ndi Anambra of the command’s commitment to a safer state as Christmas and the New Year approach.
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