In a concerted effort to ensure public safety and a crime-free celebration during the upcoming Imoka Festival, operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have arrested a 25-year-old suspect, Nasiru Samaila, during a targeted raid on identified criminal hideouts in Awka and surrounding areas.
The arrest was made during a discreet intelligence-led operation carried out on the evening of May 19, 2025, by officers attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Awka Sector.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, the operation was part of the Command’s strategic measures to curb criminal activities and maintain law and order during the festive period.
“The aim of the operation is to ensure a crime-free Imoka festival and secure the lives and property of residents and visitors,” Ikenga said.
During the operation, the police raided a known black spot believed to harbor criminal elements. Upon sighting the security team, the suspect, Nasiru Samaila, reportedly attempted to flee the scene and opened fire on the operatives in a bid to escape arrest.
“In a desperate bid to evade arrest, the suspect began shooting indiscriminately,” the police spokesperson disclosed. “However, our officers exercised restraint and professionalism, and were able to subdue him after returning fire, which resulted in a gunshot wound to his right leg.”
Despite the successful neutralization of the threat, the encounter did not come without consequences. One of the police officers sustained a gunshot injury during the exchange of fire. He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment and responding positively.
In addition to the arrest, the police recovered critical exhibits from the suspect. These include: One locally made Beretta pistol; One live round of ammunition; A sharp knife; A large quantity of substances suspected to be hard drugs, believed to be prepared for distribution
DSP Ikenga reiterated the Command’s commitment to maintaining peace and cracking down on criminal elements across the state. He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing useful information that can help rid communities of crime.
He added that further investigations are ongoing, and the suspect will be charged to court as soon as preliminary inquiries are concluded. The police also reassured the public that all necessary measures are in place to guarantee a peaceful and safe Imoka Festival.
The Imoka Festival is a significant cultural event in Anambra State, particularly among the people of Awka. As such, the police command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police, CP Aderemi Adeoye, has intensified security operations to prevent any form of criminal disruption before, during, and after the celebrations.