The Anambra State Police Command has arrested five men suspected of posing as vigilante operatives to rob unsuspecting passengers along the Ring Road area of Nibo community in Awka South Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects were reportedly operating with an ash-coloured shuttle bus, which they allegedly used to lure and attack commuters under the guise of providing security services.
Confirming the arrest on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, carried out the operation following intelligence-led investigations into cases of criminal conspiracy and armed robbery.
According to Ikenga, items recovered from the suspects included two pump-action guns, five live cartridges, face masks, different number plates, and other materials believed to be used for their criminal activities.
“In furtherance of ongoing investigations into criminal conspiracy and armed robbery, police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, arrested five suspects and recovered two pump-action guns, five live cartridges, an ash-coloured shuttle bus, face masks, number plates, and other incriminating items at Ring Road, Nibo, Awka,” Ikenga said.
He disclosed that the arrested suspects were identified as Solomon Saddah, Okolocha George Kaosisochukwu, John Obi Ogwaju, Chukwuemeka Chisom Ikenwa, and Eze Obinna Joshua.
The police spokesperson added that during interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed to their involvement in the crimes and explained how they impersonated vigilante operatives to rob passengers.
“The suspects made useful statements, admitting their roles in the criminal acts and revealing their mode of operation. They are currently cooperating with the police to help uncover other accomplices and criminal networks,” he added.
Ikenga reassured residents of the state of the police command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
Meanwhile, the police said investigations are ongoing and further developments would be communicated as the case progresses.
