The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has said the Command 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.
CP Orutugu disclosed this on Wednesday during a press briefing at the Anambra State Police Command Headquarters in Awka, as part of an end-of-year assessment of security operations in the state.
Speaking on behalf of officers and men of the Command, the Commissioner noted that while total security is yet to be achieved, the cooperation, trust and timely support of residents played a critical role in the progress recorded during the year.
He explained that crime patterns fluctuated in 2025 due to prevailing socio-economic realities and evolving security challenges nationwide. However, through proactive policing, intelligence-led operations and enhanced community engagement, the Command achieved a noticeable reduction in violent crimes, cult-related activities, armed robbery and kidnapping in most parts of Anambra State.
According to him, improved response times, increased visibility patrols and stronger community policing structures contributed significantly to the stabilisation of the security environment.
Among the Command’s major achievements were the disruption of several kidnapping syndicates across different local government areas, the dismantling of criminal hideouts and identified black spots through sustained raids, and strengthened inter-agency collaboration that led to successful joint security operations.
He said the improved security situation ensured incident-free major events in the state, including the official visit of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the successful conduct of the governorship and local government elections, as well as the gradual return of normal social life in Ihiala, where social events such as weddings and birthdays were held without intimidation.
CP Orutugu disclosed that intelligence-driven operations by a Joint Security Team comprising 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 led to the arrest of suspects linked to armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, secessionist activities, rape and other serious offences.
He added that the Command recovered over 60 stolen vehicles, including motorcycles, and successfully prosecuted several cases, securing convictions.
A major highlight, according to the Commissioner, was the re-arrest of suspects involved in the killing of the late Hon. Justice Azuka in Onitsha, including the alleged gang leader. He also confirmed the arrest of suspects connected to the killing of three Cameroonian nationals and the recovery of their bodies.
Despite the achievements, CP Orutugu acknowledged challenges such as the evolving tactics of criminal elements and occasional resistance, misinformation and non-cooperation from a few members of the public. He said these challenges have strengthened the Command’s resolve to improve its strategies and operational effectiveness.
Ahead of the festive season, the Commissioner announced that robust security measures have been put in place to ensure peaceful celebrations across the state. He warned that the use of knock-out substances and other social explosives remains prohibited and urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, comply with traffic regulations, secure their homes before travelling and use only designated motor parks.
The Commissioner expressed appreciation to the Anambra State Government, sister security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, town unions, community vigilante groups and the media for their support and cooperation. He also commended residents for assisting in the renovation and facelift of several police facilities, including the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu, Ogidi Division, Amichi Division and the Main Market Police Station in Onitsha.
CP Orutugu reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring a safer and more secure Anambra State, wishing residents a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.