EKO HOT BLOG reports that hoodlums wreaking havoc across multiple communities in Anambra State have escalated their activities by sewing police and army uniforms in concealed locations within bushes.
The criminals have been utilizing these uniforms during their operations, further complicating law enforcement efforts.
A joint operation involving security operatives recently uncovered one such hideout in Ifite Ogbunike, located in the Oyi local government area of the state. Upon arrival, the security forces stumbled upon a well-established base where the hoodlums resided and launched attacks on various communities.
Numerous items of interest were discovered at the site, including a multipurpose sewing machine, already-produced police and military uniforms, food supplies, cooking utensils, and protective charms believed to safeguard the criminals during their criminal activities.
It is believed that the hoodlums relocated to Ogbunike following their expulsion from Lilu and Orsumoghu bushes in Ihiala local government area by previous security operations. The Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Tochukwu Ikenga, hailed the discovery in Ogbunike as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing battle against crime within the state.
Mr. Ikenga stated, “Based on credible information received by the Anambra State Police Command from concerned residents, we successfully identified some of the criminal hideouts and camps. In the early hours of today, the police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Akwuzu, while attempting to rescue two kidnapped victims, raided a camp at Ifite Ogbunike, Oyi LGA.”
He further revealed, “During the operation, two armed men were neutralized by the police, and a black Lexus SUV was recovered. The vehicle contained numerous security uniforms, including those resembling the police and military.”
Additionally, Mr. Ikenga highlighted another successful operation in Akwaihedi, Nnewi South local government area, a border town between Imo and Anambra states. In this instance, a joint security forces team intercepted a highly dangerous gang of five individuals traveling on motorcycles suspected to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN). The gang was en route to Anambra, reportedly planning an attack.
The security operatives engaged the assailants in a fierce gun battle, resulting in the neutralization of all five gang members. The authorities also recovered two rocket launchers, four AK47 rifles, one automatic pump-action rifle, four magazines, eight live ammunition rounds, police berets, charms, and other incriminating materials.
Mr. Ikenga acknowledged the effectiveness of the collaboration between the police, military, other security agencies, and local vigilante outfits. He emphasized that this partnership had significantly aided in combating the insurgency within the state.
“This operation represents a substantial success in thwarting a major planned attack in Anambra State. I call upon everyone to rally behind and continue supporting the security agencies and the state government in our joint efforts to restore security and stability to the state,” Mr. Ikenga concluded.
The discovery of the hoodlums’ sewing operations and the subsequent successful operations against them underscore the urgent need for heightened security measures in Anambra State.
The authorities remain committed to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents.
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