A joint security operation by the Agunechemba Security Squad and local vigilantes led to the arrest of nine individuals suspected of kidnapping and ritual killings in Anambra State.
The operation, conducted on Thursday, targeted criminal hideouts in Owere Zukala, Orumba South Local Government Area.
According to a security operative who requested anonymity, the team had been tracking the suspects with assistance from local residents before confirming their movements and launching the raid.
Investigations revealed that many of the arrested suspects had previously fled Arondizuogu in Imo State, where they were pursued by the Joint Task Force on Security, before relocating to Anambra to continue their activities.
Security forces recovered several items from the suspects, including motorcycles, power generators, and weapons.
Among those arrested was the alleged gang leader, known as “Fat One,” who has reportedly been involved in multiple kidnapping operations across Anambra and Imo states.
Prince Kenneth Emeakayi, Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, confirmed the arrests, emphasizing the government’s commitment to eliminating crime in the state.
He also warned landlords and hotel owners to be cautious about their tenants and guests, stating that properties harbouring criminals would be demolished by state laws.