The Anambra State Police Command has apprehended two suspected armed robbers linked to a proscribed secessionist group following a two-hour gunfight at Enugwu-Agidi Junction in Dunukofia Local Government Area.
In a statement on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the operation took place in the early hours of Wednesday after officers engaged a five-man robbery gang. The arrest represents another major operational success in the command’s ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property in the state.
“The police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, acting on credible intelligence, laid an ambush for a five-man group of armed hoodlums suspected to be armed robbers, cultists, and linked to a proscribed secessionist group,” Ikenga said.
According to the police, the suspects opened fire on the officers, resulting in a fierce two-hour gun battle. Two suspects sustained fatal gunshot injuries, while three others fled with varying degrees of wounds.
Recovered items included one T.06 rifle, two pump-action guns, 24 rounds of T.06 ammunition, 15 live cartridges, assorted criminal charms, one cult red beret, and a black Toyota Highlander.
During interrogation, one suspect reportedly confessed that the gang had been involved in a failed attack on the convoy of former Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, and were part of the Vikings Confraternity seeking retaliation for a member’s death.
The state Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the officers for their bravery and urged them to continue efforts to apprehend the remaining gang members. He also directed hospitals to report anyone admitted with gunshot injuries immediately to the nearest police station.
Dip Connect Online News recalls that on November 1, 2025, the Anambra Police arrested a 25-year-old man, Friday Anyikame, also linked to a proscribed secessionist group, recovering two pump-action firearms and 29 live cartridges during a similar intelligence-led operation in Ihiala LGA.
The police emphasized that investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be communicated as the situation develops.
Elijah Adeyemi
