Anambra Police Thwart Kidnapping Threats by ESN Fighters, Make Arrests

In a decisive move, the Anambra State Command of the Nigeria Police Force successfully dismantled two dangerous criminal syndicates operating in Ozubulu and Umunze, targeting unsuspecting residents with threats of kidnapping and extortion.

The Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, revealed in a statement that diligent police work led to the arrest of two individuals in Umunze following a thorough investigation. These suspects had posed as members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed wing of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). They had sent threatening text messages to a victim, demanding a substantial sum of money under the threat of kidnapping and harm to the victim’s daughter.

“The suspects are now in custody and will soon face charges in court,” affirmed Ikenga.

In a separate operation in Ozubulu, a male suspect was apprehended by police operatives. This individual, claiming to be an ESN Commander, had used two different mobile lines to issue grave threats to a businessman. The victim was ordered to pay a specified amount of money, or face the risk of violence.

Ikenga detailed, “Meticulous investigation involving technology and human assets led detectives to the suspect’s hideout. He was arrested, and both mobile lines used in the extortion recovered. The suspect is now awaiting trial.”

Commending the diligence of the officers involved, Commissioner of Police, CP Aderemi Adeoye, expressed appreciation for the meticulous efforts that led to uncovering the identities of the criminals and their subsequent arrests. He pledged ongoing support and motivation for police personnel across the state to ensure optimal performance in maintaining public safety.