The Anambra State Police Command in a series of coordinated operations, has arrested three suspects in connection with separate cases of fraud and theft involving building materials and public infrastructure.
In the first case, two individuals — Nnanna Charles and Okoye Chukwunonso — were apprehended over the illegal possession of two truckloads of cement valued at ₦17 million. Their arrest came after a victim reported being defrauded in a business deal conducted online.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the complainant had entered into an online transaction with a man identified as Edwin Emeka, who allegedly placed an order for the cement. However, once the goods were delivered, Emeka reportedly vanished and became unreachable.
Following a swift investigation by officers from the 33 Police Division, the cement was traced to multiple shops across Anambra State, leading to the arrest of the two suspects found with the stolen goods.
“The suspects are currently being interrogated as part of ongoing efforts to track down the prime suspect, Edwin Emeka, and dismantle the network behind this fraud,” Ikenga stated.
He also warned the public to be cautious in dealing with unknown persons in online transactions, stressing that such engagements should be approached with due diligence to avoid losses or security risks. The case will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
In a separate operation, police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu arrested a 40-year-old suspect named Maduka in the Fegge area of Onitsha for allegedly dealing in stolen electrical equipment.
The arrest, which took place on Saturday, June 14, was based on credible intelligence. During the operation, officers recovered several bags containing vandalised copper wires, large quantities of high-tension cables, transformer coils, and other critical power infrastructure components.
SP Ikenga disclosed that during interrogation, the suspect admitted to being part of a network that sells the stolen materials in Ogun and Lagos States. The police are now expanding their investigation to uncover additional links and collaborators.
“These recoveries not only help protect public infrastructure but also serve as a warning to those involved in the sabotage of essential services. We are committed to tracing the supply chain and bringing all those responsible to justice,” the police spokesperson added.
Further updates on the ongoing investigations will be provided as developments unfold.