Police, Vigilante Team Dismantle Secessionist Camp, Neutralise Four Suspects

Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command, in collaboration with the Anambra State Vigilante Group (AVG) Agunechemba, have dismantled a secessionist and terrorist camp in Awa, Orumba North Local Government Area.

The raid, which commenced in the early hours of August 21 and lasted over 15 hours, resulted in the rescue of a kidnapped victim, the neutralisation of four suspected criminals, and the recovery of a cache of arms, explosives, and stolen vehicles.

According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the operation was executed by the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Awkuzu following credible intelligence. The rescued victim had been abducted and held hostage in the camp, despite his family having paid a ransom of ₦20 million. The operatives stormed the location and successfully freed him during the confrontation.

Items recovered from the camp include two pump-action guns, a fabricated AK-47 rifle, a K2 assault rifle, a locally made hunter gun, three locally made Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), a radio transmission box, and materials believed to be used in bomb-making, including empty gas cylinders and cable wires.

Security personnel also recovered several vehicles, including a black Lexus RX 350 Jeep (Reg. No. ACA 340 MA), three Toyota Camry cars (Reg. Nos: ABC 268 FQ, EKY 151 CD, and FGG 706 ME), another unidentified black Camry, as well as personal items such as five mobile phones, identity cards, and sleeping materials.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, praised the bravery and professionalism of the operatives involved, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to restoring peace and order across the state. He also stated that ongoing operations are in place to apprehend fleeing suspects and destroy other insurgent hideouts.