The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, on Wednesday revealed that joint security forces across the state have rescued approximately 35 kidnapped victims and arrested around 300 suspected criminals since the start of 2025.
Orutugu, who disclosed this during a press briefing at the command’s headquarters in Awka on Wednesday, said the joint security operations also led to the recovery of over 2,000 arms and ammunition, including explosives and other dangerous items.
He disclosed that about 60 stolen vehicles, including motorcycles, were recovered, and several criminal cases were successfully prosecuted, resulting in convictions.
The Anambra police boss said that the joint security team comprised the Police, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Navy, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigeria Immigration Service, Agunaechemba, and other security operatives.
He said, “On behalf of the officers and men of the command, I warmly welcome you to this media briefing today, 17th December 2025, as the year draws to an end.
“As the lead agency in internal security, the Nigeria Police Force recognises that the ultimate assessment of our performance rests with the good people of Anambra State.
“While we acknowledge that we are not yet where we aspire to be in achieving total security, it is important to emphasise that the cooperation, trust, and timely support we received from residents significantly contributed to the successes recorded during the year under review.
“Throughout the year, the Command observed fluctuations in crime patterns, largely influenced by socio-economic realities and evolving security dynamics across the country.
“Nevertheless, through proactive policing, intelligence-led operations, and the unwavering dedication of our officers and men, we achieved a noticeable reduction in incidents of violent crime, cult-related activities, armed robbery, and kidnapping in most parts of the state.
“Improved response times, enhanced visibility patrols, and stronger community partnerships played critical roles in stabilising the security environment.”
Highlighting the command’s accomplishments, Orutugu said the police had disrupted “multiple kidnapping syndicates operating across several Local Government Areas,” dismantled criminal hideouts and identified black spots through sustained raids and patrols.
Other achievements, the command police boss stated, included strengthening community policing structures, ensuring residents remain active stakeholders in security, and improving inter-agency collaboration.
He explained that this collaboration had resulted in successful joint operations and significant breakthroughs, including the hitch-free official visit of President Bola Tinubu to the state, the successful conduct of the governorship and local government elections, and the gradual return of normal social life in Ihiala, with weddings, birthdays, and other community events held without intimidation or harassment.
He said, “A major highlight among these achievements was the re-arrest of the suspects involved in the killing of the late Hon. Justice Azuka in Onitsha, including the gang leader, and the arrest of the suspects who murdered three Cameroonian nationals, along with the recovery of the victims’ bodies.”
Despite these successes, Orutugu acknowledged challenges, including the evolving tactics of criminal elements, occasional resistance, misinformation, and non-cooperation from a few members of the public.
“However, these challenges have only strengthened our resolve to improve our strategies and operational effectiveness in the coming year,” he added.
As the festive season approached, the commissioner said the command had deployed robust security measures to ensure residents and visitors enjoy peaceful celebrations.
He urged the public to observe safety advisories, including avoiding knock-out substances and other explosives, remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious persons, complying with traffic regulations, securing homes and valuables, and using designated motor parks.
“Above all, we appreciate Ndi Anambra for their trust, partnership, timely information sharing, and assistance in giving a facelift to some of our police stations, including Rapid Response Squad Awkuzu, Ogidi Division, Amichi Division, Main Market Onitsha, and many others.
“As we prepare to enter a new year, we reaffirm our commitment to a safer and more secure Anambra State.
“The command will continue to strengthen its capacity, deepen community partnerships, and intensify operations to ensure that every resident feels protected,” Orutugu concluded.
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