The Anambra State Police Command has arrested two suspected kidnappers in a fresh crackdown on violent crimes across the state. The suspects — a 52-year-old man, Celestine, and a 45-year-old woman, Jacinta — were apprehended by officers from the Rapid Response Squad and the Anti-Kidnapping Unit.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the arrest was made on April 13, 2025, as part of a new police operation codenamed Udo Ga Chi’, which translates to “Peace Will Reign.” The operation is specifically aimed at tackling kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes plaguing communities in Anambra.
Celestine and Jacinta, both residents of Oba in the Idemili South Local Government Area, were arrested after operatives received credible intelligence linking them to an ongoing investigation into past abduction cases in the state.
During a search of their residence in Oba, police discovered a cache of weapons including a pump-action shotgun, seven single-barrel dane guns, and 28 live cartridges. These items, according to police, were being used to support a criminal network that has been terrorising parts of Anambra.
Further investigation led the operatives to a remote hideout in Omasi, Ayamelum Local Government Area, where two AK-47 rifles and two empty magazines were recovered based on information provided by the suspects.
SP Ikenga explained that both suspects played key roles in the operations of the kidnapping syndicate. “Celestine is suspected to be a native doctor who prepares charms and also hides weapons for the gang,” he said. “Jacinta, on the other hand, is believed to act as an informant. She helps the gang identify and monitor potential victims before any operation.”
One of the major breakthroughs in the case was the link to a July 2024 kidnapping in Nnewi, where the victim’s family paid a ransom of N17.5 million to secure their release. The police believe the suspects were directly involved in this case, which had previously gone cold due to lack of leads.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the efforts of the operatives involved in the arrests and praised the success of *‘Udo Ga Chi’* in disrupting criminal networks. He reaffirmed the police command’s commitment to ensuring safety across the state, saying the operation is yielding positive results.
“We will continue to go after these criminals until they have nowhere to hide,” CP Orutugu said. “Let this serve as a warning to those who believe they can carry out criminal activities and escape justice. Anambra is no longer a safe haven for criminals.”
He further assured residents that the command is fully committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property, stressing the importance of public cooperation. “Security is everyone’s responsibility,” the police commissioner said. “We urge citizens to report any suspicious activity in their communities.”
The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue. Police say more arrests may follow based on the intelligence gathered so far.
Anambra State has seen a rise in kidnapping and other violent crimes in recent years, prompting urgent action by the police and other security agencies. Communities like Nnewi, Onitsha, and parts of Ayamelum have witnessed a number of high-profile kidnappings, with victims often released only after large ransom payments.
The ‘Udo Ga Chi’ operation, which was launched earlier this year under the leadership of CP Orutugu, has already resulted in several arrests and weapon recoveries. It is part of broader efforts by the state government and police to restore peace and boost public confidence in the security system.
As the investigation into the activities of Celestine and Jacinta unfolds, the police are encouraging anyone with relevant information to come forward, assuring the public that such details will be treated with confidentiality.
