In a decisive crackdown on violent crimes, the Enugu State Police Command has arrested thirteen male suspects across multiple operations targeting armed robbery, illegal firearms possession, and cult-related activities. The operations, led by the Command’s Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad and other units, also resulted in the recovery of firearms, stolen vehicles, and other incriminating exhibits.
The arrests stem from a series of tactical and intelligence-driven missions carried out across Enugu State and beyond, between July 15 and July 30, 2025.
Arrests in Ezeagu LGA
On July 30, at approximately 3:40 a.m., the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad, acting on the confessional statement of Ekene Akpata, also known as Odumodu, arrested three additional suspects in Oyofo-Oghe, Ezeagu Local Government Area. The suspects—Ebuka Odinko (35), Chiemerie Amano (25), and Onyebuchi Onyekwere (24)—were identified as members of the Vikings Confraternity. Preliminary investigations linked them to a series of armed robbery incidents where victims were dispossessed of valuables.
Cross-State Operation in Rivers State
Between July 23 and July 28, operatives conducted a follow-up operation in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, based on information obtained from two suspects under investigation, Okechukwu Ogbonna (65) from Abia State and Ezeonuji Charles (52) from Anambra State. The operation led to the arrest of Udofia Richard (43) from Akwa Ibom and Richard Arinzechukwu Nwaomu (32) from Imo State. Two suspected stolen vehicles were recovered:
- A red Toyota Camry XLE (Reg. No. YEN 221 AG)
- An ash-coloured Kia Soul (Reg. No. PHC 845 AE)
Cultist Hideout Busted in Udi LGA
Earlier on July 21, three suspects—Stephen Chidiebere a.k.a Shaggy (42), Arinze Udeh a.k.a Anonymous (30), and Onuigbo Kingsley (49)—were apprehended in Umuasi Ngwo, Udi Local Government Area. The raid followed the arrest of Ikemefuna Ani, a.k.a Majority (31), who was already in custody for conspiracy, armed robbery, and cultism. A cut-to-size double-barreled gun was recovered from the scene. The suspects are reportedly affiliated with the Black Axe Confraternity.
Armed Robbery Foiled in Ogui, Enugu
In a separate operation on July 15, around 10:20 a.m., police officers from the Ogui Division, in collaboration with the Neighbourhood Watch Group, arrested a 30-year-old robbery suspect, Ifeanyi Ede. Earlier that day, around 2:20 a.m., Ede and an accomplice, who is still at large, had used a pistol-like object—later identified as a Spark-L electronic gas lighter—to rob a taxi driver of ₦30,000 cash, his car key, a mobile phone worth ₦17,000, and an ATM card. The victim had picked up the suspects from Independence Layout to Ogui before being attacked. Ede was promptly arrested, and the stolen phone was recovered. A manhunt is ongoing for the fleeing accomplice.
Investigations and Public Advisory
All arrested individuals remain in custody as investigations continue. The police have assured the public that all cases will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations. Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to apprehend other accomplices still at large.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, has lauded the operatives for their dedication and professionalism. He urged the team to maintain the tempo and reassured residents of the Command's determination to rid Enugu State of criminal elements. He also encouraged the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station or via the following emergency contacts: 08032003702, 08086671202, or the Command-and-Control Centre on 112.
Signed:
SP Daniel Ndukwe, anipr, mnisma
Police Public Relations Officer
Enugu State Command
State Headquarters, GRA, Enugu
Date: July 31, 2025
