The Anambra State Police Command has announced plans to carry out large-scale raids on identified criminal flashpoints during and after the Easter period, in collaboration with other security agencies.
Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu made the disclosure on Monday in Awka while launching “Operation Udogachi Zero Kidnapping and Other Violent Crimes,” a joint initiative to combat insecurity in the state.
He said the operation would enhance coordination among security personnel and ensure criminals are flushed out of their strongholds.
“The security forces are now more motivated. This operation provides a structured approach to reclaim public spaces and includes daily briefings to help restrategise as events unfold,” he said.
According to the police chief, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and other agencies have been instructed to intensify raids in hotspots across their jurisdictions. The aim is to stay ahead of criminal elements, rebuild public trust, and reinforce safety across Anambra.
He noted that the effort is a collaborative one involving multiple agencies including the Police, Army (302 Artillery Regiment), Navy, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Correctional Service, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and Anambra Vigilante.
“Most importantly, we are relying on the people of Anambra to share credible information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of kidnappers and other criminals,” Orutugu added.
He urged residents to report suspicious activities or objects through the following hotlines: Police via 07039194332, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) via 09136832679, the NSCDC through 08066769442 and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) by dialing 122.
Orutugu also expressed gratitude to the state government and well-meaning individuals for their support, particularly in repairing operational vehicles and armoured carriers.
Speaking at the event, Kingsley Ezika, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security and Anti-Cultism, praised the collaboration among agencies and encouraged further crackdowns on cultism and illegal gatherings as part of broader efforts to ensure peace.
“When you fight cultism and illegal gatherings, it enables us to enforce the state’s anti-cultism laws,” he said, urging citizens to show appreciation to security personnel for their sacrifices.
In support, Mr. Lucas Ohazuruike, President of the Anambra Restaurant and Bar Owners Association, pledged full cooperation from the hospitality sector.
“We’ll give 100 per cent support to this initiative because many of these criminals use hotels and restaurants as meeting points to plan crimes,” he stated.
The initiative is part of the recently launched “Operation Udogachi,” designed to rid Anambra of criminal activities and safeguard residents.
(NAN)