Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Awkuzu, Anambra State — The Anambra State Police Command recorded a major operational success in the early hours of January 14, 2026, as its operatives thwarted the activities of a suspected armed criminal group during a coordinated security operation in Dunukofia Local Government Area of the state.
Police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, acting on credible and actionable intelligence, laid an ambush at Enugwu Agidi Junction targeting a five-man group suspected to be involved in armed robbery, cult-related violence and links to a proscribed secessionist group. According to the Police Command, the suspects opened fire on sighting the operatives, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire that reportedly lasted close to two hours.
The confrontation resulted in two of the armed suspects sustaining fatal gunshot injuries, while three others escaped from the scene with varying degrees of gunshot wounds. The Police said the operation led to the recovery of significant exhibits, including high-calibre firearms, ammunition, a vehicle and items believed to be associated with cult activities, further reinforcing suspicions about the group’s criminal profile.
During the operation, one of the injured suspects, who was reportedly in severe distress, made statements linking the gang to previous violent incidents in the state. According to the Police, the suspect confessed that members of the group were involved in an earlier attempted attack on the convoy of former Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, an incident that was repelled by security operatives at the time. The suspect also alleged that the group was connected to the Vikings confraternity and was on a retaliatory mission following the killing of one of its members by a rival cult group.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for their courage, discipline and professionalism during the operation. He directed them to intensify efforts to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects, particularly those believed to have sustained gunshot injuries during the encounter, noting that their apprehension remains a top priority for the Command.
In a related advisory, the Police Command urged hospitals and medical facilities across the state to admit persons with gunshot wounds or related injuries without hesitation, but emphasized that such cases must be promptly reported to the nearest police station. The directive, according to the Police, is aimed at preventing injured suspects from evading arrest under the cover of medical treatment.
The Anambra State Police Command reiterated its commitment to sustained intelligence-driven operations to dismantle criminal networks, curb cult-related violence and ensure the safety of lives and property across the state. Investigations into the incident are ongoing, and the Police assured that further updates will be made available as progress is recorded.
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