The Anambra State Police Command says it has uncovered and dismantled a secessionist camp in Owerre-Ezukala, Orumba South Local Government Area, recovering a cache of arms and ammunition in a renewed security operation across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, who briefed journalists on Wednesday, said the raid followed intelligence-driven operations targeting criminal hideouts linked to violent attacks and separatist activities in the South-East.
He explained that the camp had previously been destroyed by a joint security task force, but suspected members regrouped at the location, prompting another clearance operation on May 7.
According to him, the operation led to the recovery of high-grade weapons, including a general purpose machine gun, thousands of rounds of ammunition, locally fabricated rocket launchers, improvised explosive devices, pump-action guns, hand grenades, and other military-grade materials.
Orutugu said intelligence reports and confessions from a detained suspect helped security operatives track renewed activity in the camp.
“We acted on credible intelligence and prior investigations which showed that fleeing suspects were attempting to regroup. Our operatives moved in and successfully neutralised the threat,” he said.
He added that the police have maintained operational control of the area to prevent further regrouping by armed groups.
In a related development, the command also announced the arrest of a 22-year-old suspected cult member identified as Favour Izunna, who is allegedly linked to violent cult operations in the state.
The police said the arrest led to the recovery of firearms and ammunition, while the suspect reportedly admitted involvement in several killings within Obosi and surrounding communities.
Orutugu further disclosed that several suspects are currently in custody over offences ranging from sexual abuse to child trafficking.
He noted that a major child trafficking operation was recently uncovered in Aguata Local Government Area, leading to the rescue of 12 minors aged between one and 20 years.
He said the rescued children have been placed under protective care as investigations continue to track other members of the trafficking network.
The police commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustained operations against criminal groups, urging residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible information.
“We remain committed to making Anambra unsafe for criminals while ensuring the safety of all residents,” he added.
