The Anambra State Police Command has apprehended a 42-year-old man, Friday Emenike, also known by the alias “Ekpo,” for allegedly renting firearms to criminals for illegal activities. This arrest highlights a significant step in the fight against crime within the state.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, the suspect hails from the Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. Emenike was taken into custody by operatives of the Anambra State Police Command following credible intelligence linking him to the illegal provision of weapons to criminal elements operating in and around Awka, the state capital.
Ikenga disclosed that the suspect confessed to the crime during preliminary investigations, affirming his involvement in renting out weapons to those engaging in illicit activities. He further noted that the case will be charged to court upon the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
Providing details about the operation that led to Emenike’s arrest, Ikenga said:
“Police operatives from the Anambra State Command arrested one Friday Emenike, alias Ekpo, aged 42, from Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, for allegedly lending guns to criminals for their illegal operations. These activities, particularly prevalent in Awka and its environs, have been a source of concern for law enforcement and the local community.”
The police spokesperson also referenced an earlier operation conducted by the Anti-Cultism Squad on December 7, 2024, which played a crucial role in uncovering Emenike’s alleged involvement. During that raid, officers stormed a known criminal hideout in Umunaga Village, Awka South Local Government Area. The operation resulted in the arrest of two suspects: Okechukwu Chinwuko, aged 27, from Umunaga Village, and Ezenwa Chinedu, aged 22, from Umuneri Village.
During the raid, law enforcement recovered a pump-action shotgun, three live cartridges, a cutlass, various criminal charms, and substances suspected to be hard drugs. The operatives also rescued two female victims who had reportedly been sexually assaulted by the suspects.
Further interrogation of the arrested individuals revealed a critical link to Emenike. The suspects admitted to renting weapons from him, prompting the swift action that led to his apprehension.
The police emphasized their commitment to curbing crime and ensuring the safety of residents in Anambra State. “The arrest of Emenike is a testament to the police’s resolve to dismantle criminal networks operating within the state,” Ikenga added.
The Anambra State Police Command has assured the public that investigations are progressing diligently and that all suspects will be brought to justice. Emenike and his accomplices are expected to face prosecution once the case file is complete.
This development underscores the importance of community collaboration with law enforcement to combat crime. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities and provide timely information to the police as part of efforts to maintain peace and security in the region.
