The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 25-year-old man, Emmanuel Chekwube Mark, over alleged involvement in armed robbery and kidnapping, recovering three firearms during the operation.
Mark was apprehended in the early hours of Thursday, August 27, 2026, by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, following intelligence received by the command.
The Punch reported that the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday, saying the suspect was allegedly part of a four-man armed robbery and kidnapping syndicate operating around the Ifite Awka axis of Awka South Local Government Area.
According to the police, the items recovered from the suspect included one locally fabricated pistol, two pump-action guns and a military-pattern face cap.
Ikenga said preliminary investigation and interrogation indicated that Mark allegedly worked with other members of the gang, who are currently at large, to abduct unsuspecting residents in the area.
“The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 25-year-old suspect, Emmanuel Chekwube Mark, for armed robbery and kidnapping.
“The suspect was arrested in the early hours of August 27, 2026, following credible intelligence. Items recovered during the operation include one locally fabricated pistol, two pump-action guns and one military-pattern face cap.
“Preliminary investigation and interrogation revealed that the suspect is allegedly a member of a four-man armed robbery and kidnapping syndicate operating around the Ifite Awka axis of the state.
“The suspect further 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.
“The suspect also allegedly confessed to his involvement in the kidnapping of a victim on July 22, 2026. According to his statement, the victim was dispossessed of his valuables and subsequently allegedly murdered, with his remains abandoned in a bush.”
The police spokesperson said the suspect also revealed how the gang allegedly used a tricycle to target victims.
According to him, the suspects would allegedly block their intended victim and accuse the person of scratching or damaging their tricycle.
The ensuing argument would allegedly provide an opportunity for the gang to overpower the victim at gunpoint.
The victims were then allegedly taken to a hideout in Umoji, Ebenebe, where they were reportedly tortured and robbed of their valuables.
Ikenga said the Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Ama, had ordered a comprehensive investigation into the case.
He added that the police chief also directed operatives to intensify efforts to arrest the fleeing members of the syndicate.
The command assured residents that it would continue its intelligence-led and proactive operations to combat kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes across Anambra State.
