The Anambra State Police Command has arrested five suspected members of a criminal gang and recovered illicit substances valued at about ₦1.45 million, a suspected counterfeit $100 bill, vandalised electrical wires and ₦72,550 in cash.
The suspects were arrested on Thursday, August 20, 2026, when operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, raided a suspected criminal hideout in Nawfia, Njikoka Local Government Area.
Those arrested were identified as 29-year-old Omogo Obinna; 28-year-old Okechukwu Nwagba; 29-year-old Echezona Okonkwo; 23-year-old Awal Umar; and 33-year-old Ogadinma Boniface.
The Police Command said the operation, which took place at about 12:48 p.m., led to the recovery of suspected Cannabis Sativa, Canadian Loud, Black Mamba, Colorado and Loud, alongside vandalised electrical wires, cash and the suspected counterfeit currency.
According to the police, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects may be connected to a wider criminal network operating within the area.
The Command added that the suspects had provided useful information which could assist investigators in identifying and apprehending other members of the alleged gang.
Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, commended the Rapid Response Squad for the operation and directed that the investigation be conducted thoroughly and professionally.
He also ordered intensified efforts to track down other suspects who may be connected to the criminal activities and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the law.
The Anambra State Police Command appealed to residents to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies, stressing that community cooperation remains essential in tackling drug-related offences, vandalism and other forms of criminality across the state.
