Police Arrest Alleged Secessionist Informant Over Extortion, Terrorism-Linked Activities

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 62-year-old man, Bernard Odinchefu, for his alleged involvement in a secessionist-linked extortion network operating in parts of Ihiala Local Government Area.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, apprehended the suspect on October 1, 2025. Odinchefu is accused of serving as an informant to a secessionist group and coordinating illegal levies on local traders and families organising burial ceremonies.

Preliminary investigations reveal that traders in the Isseke and Orsumoghu communities were compelled to pay a minimum of ₦10,000 per month. At the same time, families planning funerals were reportedly extorted of ₦100,000 or more before being allowed to proceed with their ceremonies. The police allege that these funds were funnelled to the suspect’s commander in a terrorist camp.

The suspect is currently in custody as further investigations continue.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to rooting out criminal networks exploiting the public under the guise of political agitation. He described the arrest as a significant step in ongoing efforts to dismantle insurgent-linked operations in the state.

“The Command remains resolute in ensuring that communities are protected from intimidation and extortion,” CP Orutugu stated.