The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 62-year-old man, identified as Bernard Odinchefu, for allegedly spearheading an extortion syndicate linked to a secessionist group in Ihiala Local Government Area of the state.
Police spokesman, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Thursday, noting that Odinchefu was apprehended by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, on Wednesday.
“Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspect has been coordinating the collection of illegal levies from traders in Isseke and Orsumoghu communities,” Ikenga stated. “He extorted ₦10,000 and above from each trader monthly and demanded ₦100,000 and above from families before they could conduct burial ceremonies or other related events.”
According to the police, the proceeds were allegedly funneled to the suspect’s commander based in a terrorist camp.
The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, assured residents that the arrest marked another step in dismantling criminal structures in the state.
“This operation is part of our sustained efforts to rid Anambra of individuals who exploit innocent citizens under the guise of agitation,” CP Orutugu said. “We remain committed to pursuing all those involved in such unlawful activities.”
The police added that Odinchefu is currently in custody while investigations continue.
This development follows recent security operations in the state. In August, police operatives and local vigilantes stormed a secessionist camp in Awa, Orumba North LGA, where four suspected insurgents were killed, a kidnapped victim was rescued, and weapons including pump-action guns, a fabricated AK-47 rifle, and improvised explosive devices were recovered.
Ikenga emphasized that extensive security operations are ongoing to track down other fleeing suspects and dismantle remaining hideouts.
“We want to reassure the public that more updates will be provided as investigations progress,” he said.
