The Anambra State Police have successfully intervened to prevent a young man from taking his own life due to overwhelming debt.
The 27-year-old man, identified as Alozie John from Isielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State but residing in Umunnachi, Dunukofia Local Government Area, had attempted suicide over a debt of N1.2 million.
A statement issued by SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer, said the Command received a distressing message from John, who had reached out via WhatsApp.
He confessed to consuming a poisonous substance in a desperate bid to end his life. According to the police, John’s debt was related to his business in which he sells live chickens.
The debt was owed to a supplier of livestock products, which had placed him under severe financial strain.
“John had consumed a harmful chemical with the hope of ending his life because he was unable to repay a debt of N1.2 million. He had been struggling with his business and felt overwhelmed by his financial obligations,” Ikenga said.
Upon receiving the distress message, police officers promptly located John and provided him with immediate medical assistance. He was then taken into safe custody for monitoring and further evaluation.
His mother was contacted and is now assisting the police in managing his situation and ensuring that he receives appropriate care.
“John was found to be in a stable condition after the intervention. We have also involved his family to support his recovery and to help him through this challenging time,” SP Ikenga added. “Our priority is to ensure his well-being and to offer support for his mental health.”
In related news, the Anambra State Police Command has made significant progress in tackling criminal activities in the region. On August 22, 2024, a joint security operation led to the arrest of two notorious members of a secessionist group terrorizing the Aguata area.
The operation, which involved the military, Civil Defence, and other security agencies, targeted individuals involved in kidnapping, car snatching, and armed robbery. The two suspects, whose names have been withheld, were apprehended following a tip-off. One of the suspects was found with bullet wounds, while the other, identified as a fake pastor, was allegedly involved in preparing criminal charms for the gang.
“During the operation, one of the suspects had bullet wounds and the other was found to be a fake pastor who prepared charms for the gang. Both suspects have confessed to their involvement in various criminal activities and are now assisting the police in locating other members of the gang and recovering stolen vehicles,” said CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, the Commissioner of Police.
The Commissioner assured the public of the police’s commitment to tackling criminal activities and ensuring the safety of residents. “We are working tirelessly to address all reported cases, especially those involving kidnapping, armed robbery, and other criminal activities. The trust placed in us for the protection of lives and property is not taken for granted,” CP Itam stated.
