The Anambra State Police Command has arrested two brothers, Chidiebere Okeke and his cousin Emebo Ogochukwu, for allegedly killing their brother, Chibuzor Okeke, and burying his body in a shallow grave at their compound in Oko community, Orumba North Local Government Area. The arrest was disclosed by the state’s Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, during a press briefing on Monday.
According to Itam, Chibuzor Okeke was accused of burglary and theft. His brothers, Chidiebere and Ogochukwu, reportedly caught him in the act, beat him severely, and left him unconscious. Chibuzor was rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead. To cover up the crime, the two suspects buried his body in a shallow grave on their property.
Rescue of Stolen Children from Bauchi State
In another development, the Anambra State Police Command successfully rescued four children who had been allegedly stolen from their parents in Bauchi State and sold to an individual in Anambra. Four suspects, including an illegal foster mother, were arrested in connection with the crime. The suspects confessed to their involvement, detailing their roles in the operation. One of the children has been identified, and efforts are underway to reunite the child with their parents. The police have called for assistance in sharing the children’s pictures to aid in further identification and reunification efforts.
Joint Security Operation in Nimo
On December 24, 2024, a joint security operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, Military, Civil Defence, and Anambra Vigilante operatives successfully dismantled a criminal camp located in Nimo, Njikoka Local Government Area. The operation led to the destruction of several makeshift structures within the camp, the recovery of 19 unexploded Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and significant injuries inflicted on fleeing suspects. This decisive action followed credible intelligence regarding the criminal gang’s activities in the area.
Anti-Cultism Raid in Awka South
The Commissioner of Police also revealed that on December 7, 2024, the Anti-Cultism Squad in Enugu Ukwu, Njikoka Local Government Area, conducted a raid on a black spot in Umunaga Village, Awka South LGA, based on reliable information. During the operation, two suspects, Okechukwu Chinwuko (27) and Ezenwa Chinedu (22), were arrested. Incriminating items recovered included a pump-action gun, four live cartridges, a cutlass, criminal charms, and substances suspected to be hard drugs. Additionally, two female victims who had been sexually abused by the suspects were rescued.
Ongoing Investigations and Public Assistance
The Anambra State Police Command continues to investigate these incidents and has urged the public to assist in the identification of stolen children and the prevention of criminal activities across the state. The police emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the public through ongoing operations and collaboration with other security agencies.