The Anambra State Police Command has recorded significant security successes in 2025, including the rescue of 35 kidnapped victims, the arrest of over 300 criminal suspects, and the recovery of more than 2,000 arms and ammunition across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, MNIPS, PhD, disclosed this on Tuesday during an end-of-year press briefing held at the Anambra State Police Command Headquarters in Awka.
Addressing journalists, CP Orutugu said the Command, despite challenges posed by evolving crime patterns and socio-economic pressures, achieved notable reductions in violent crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, cult-related violence, and other serious offences through proactive policing and intelligence-led operations.
According to him, improved response times, enhanced visibility patrols, and strengthened community partnerships played key roles in stabilizing the security environment in most parts of the state.
Among the Command’s major accomplishments during the year were the disruption of several kidnapping syndicates operating across multiple local government areas, dismantling of criminal hideouts and identified black spots, and the strengthening of community policing structures to ensure active citizen participation in security matters.
The Police Commissioner also highlighted improved inter-agency collaboration, which led to successful joint operations involving the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Agunaechemba, and other security operatives.
He revealed that the Command recovered more than 60 stolen vehicles, including motorcycles, and secured convictions in several criminal cases during the year.
A major breakthrough, CP Orutugu noted, was the re-arrest of suspects involved in the killing of late Hon. Justice Azuka in Onitsha, including the alleged gang leader. He also confirmed the arrest of suspects linked to the murder of three Cameroonian nationals, alongside the recovery of the victims’ bodies.
As a result of the improved security situation, the state recorded incident-free major events, including the official visit of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the successful conduct of governorship and local government elections, and the gradual return of normal social activities in Ihiala, where community events are now held without intimidation.
The Commissioner acknowledged challenges such as the changing tactics of criminal elements and occasional misinformation or non-cooperation from some members of the public, but said these had only strengthened the Command’s resolve to enhance operational effectiveness in the coming year.
Ahead of the festive season, CP Orutugu announced the deployment of robust security measures across the state and issued safety advisories to residents, warning against the use of knock-out substances and other prohibited explosives. He urged the public to remain vigilant, comply with traffic regulations, secure their homes while travelling, and use only designated motor parks.
He expressed appreciation to the Anambra State Government, sister security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community vigilante groups, the media, and Ndi Anambra for their cooperation and support. He also acknowledged public contributions toward the renovation of several police facilities, including the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu, Ogidi Division, Amichi Division, and the Main Market Police Station in Onitsha.
Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to public safety, CP Orutugu assured residents that efforts would be intensified in the new year to ensure a safer and more secure Anambra State.
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