Anambra Police Arrest Four, Recover Vandalized Power Equipment in Onitsha, Obosi

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested four suspects in connection with vandalism of electricity installations during separate operations in Onitsha and Obosi. One of the suspects died after sustaining injuries while attempting to escape custody.

Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday, said the arrests followed raids carried out on August 21 by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, and security personnel attached to Isiowulu Police Station.

In Onitsha, officers acting on intelligence raided a hideout along Atani Road and arrested three suspects: Adamu Ali, 25; Usman Sulaiman, 22; and Isah Abdullahi, 26. Bags of high-tension cables, melted wires and transformer parts were recovered. Investigators said the suspects belonged to a syndicate that specializes in vandalizing power installations and selling them, with Lagos identified as their major outlet.

Earlier that same day, a patrol team in Obosi intercepted four young men carrying a black shopping bag along Ascension Anglican Church Road. Three fled, but one was caught with the bag, which contained assorted armoured cables, iron and glass cutters, gloves, clothing, keys and slippers. The suspect, whose identity has not been confirmed, attempted to escape by jumping from a storey building while being escorted to police custody. He sustained gunshot injuries during re-arrest and was later confirmed dead in hospital. His body has been deposited at the morgue for autopsy.

The Police said all recovered exhibits are in custody, and a full investigation is under way to track down the fleeing suspects and recover more stolen property.

The Command reiterated its warning to criminal groups targeting public utilities, stressing that it will continue to pursue them. It also urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around government installations.