The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 62-year-old man, Bernard Odinchefu, over alleged involvement in extortion and activities linked to a proscribed secessionist group operating in Ihiala Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the suspect was apprehended on October 1 by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu. Odinchefu is believed to be a key informant for a secessionist faction and reportedly coordinated an extortion ring targeting residents and businesses in the Isseke and Orsumoghu communities.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Odinchefu was responsible for collecting illegal monthly levies of ₦10,000 or more from traders in the area. He also allegedly extorted sums upwards of ₦100,000 from families planning funeral ceremonies, demanding payment before such events could be held.
Police sources claim that the proceeds of these illegal activities were remitted to the suspect’s commander in a terrorist camp operating in the region.
The suspect is currently in custody, and authorities say further investigations are underway to uncover the full extent of the network.
In response to the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to dismantling criminal structures associated with insurgent groups in the state. He emphasized that the arrest forms part of broader efforts to protect residents from extortion and intimidation disguised as political agitation.
“We remain resolute in our efforts to restore peace and ensure that criminal elements exploiting our people are brought to justice,” the Commissioner stated.
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