Anambra State is grappling with a disturbing trend as criminals are infiltrating the newly established Agunechemba security outfit, using its name to extort, rob, and kidnap unsuspecting residents. Chief Ken Emeakayi, the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, has raised alarm over these developments, highlighting the need for stringent verification processes to weed out rogue elements within the security apparatus.
In January 2025, Governor Soludo launched Agunechemba, a state-backed security initiative aimed at combating the escalating wave of kidnappings, armed robberies, and other criminal activities plaguing Anambra State. The operation, named *Udo Ga Achi* (meaning “peace shall reign”), was designed to restore order and ensure the safety of citizens. Over 2,000 personnel from various security agencies were mobilized for this purpose.
Despite the noble intentions behind Agunechemba, reports have emerged of individuals masquerading as operatives of the outfit to carry out criminal activities. These impersonators have been accused of setting up illegal checkpoints, extorting motorists, and even engaging in kidnappings. In one instance, residents along the Nnobi, Ichida, Awka-Etiti, Igboukwu, Uga, and Umuchu road axes reported that individuals posing as Agunechemba members were collecting N200 from each motorist per trip.
Chief Emeakayi condemned these actions, stating that such behavior is unacceptable and tarnishes the reputation of the legitimate security operatives. He emphasized that every member of Agunechemba must undergo proper verification to ensure they are not involved in criminal activities. Emeakayi further warned that anyone found impersonating a security operative without undergoing the necessary profiling would be treated as a criminal.
The Anambra State government is urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. Emeakayi encouraged the public to document and report instances where individuals, claiming to be Agunechemba operatives, engage in misconduct. He assured that such reports would be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate actions would be taken against the perpetrators.
