Anambra Police Arrest Ex-Convict Over Alleged POS Robberies in Awka, Recover Axe and Cutlass

Virgin Times News

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 27-year-old man, identified as Chidera Eleh, popularly known as “Timaya,” over his alleged involvement in a series of robberies targeting Point-of-Sale (POS) operators and other unsuspecting members of the public in Awka, the state capital. The arrest was announced on Friday, October 9, as the police intensified efforts to tackle robbery incidents allegedly involving the use of motorcycles across the state. According to the police, the operation was intelligence-led and formed part of ongoing efforts to identify and apprehend individuals suspected of participating in motorcycle-assisted robberies.

Motorcycle, Axe and Cutlass Recovered

The police said operatives recovered a motorcycle, an axe, a cutlass and other items suspected to be connected to the alleged criminal activities during the operation. The items are expected to form part of the ongoing investigation as detectives work to establish whether they were used in the reported robberies. Police spokesperson, Superintendent of Police Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed the development in a statement issued on behalf of the command. He said the suspect remained in police custody while investigations continued to determine the extent of his alleged involvement and establish the identities of any possible accomplices. The police have not publicly detailed the individual robbery incidents allegedly linked to the suspect or disclosed whether other arrests have been made in connection with the case. Police Intensify Efforts Against Motorcycle-Assisted Robberies The arrest comes amid increased police attention to criminal activities allegedly involving motorcycles in different parts of Anambra State. The command has been pursuing intelligence-led operations aimed at disrupting robbery activities and other related offences. Motorcycles are widely used for commercial transportation across the state, but the police have raised concerns about their alleged use by criminal elements to facilitate movement during attacks. The authorities have also called on motorcycle riders and owners to cooperate with security agencies and report suspicious activities that could assist ongoing investigations.

POS Operators, Business Owners Urged to Remain Vigilant

Following the arrest, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, reiterated the command's commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring that anyone found culpable is dealt with according to the law. The police urged POS operators, commercial motorcycle riders, business owners and members of the public to remain alert and promptly report suspicious movements or suspected criminal activities to the nearest police station. Business operators, particularly those who routinely handle cash, are encouraged to maintain reasonable security precautions and avoid confronting suspected armed criminals themselves.

Investigation Continues

The suspect, described by the police as an ex-convict, has not been convicted in relation to the latest allegations. The investigation is expected to establish the facts surrounding the reported robberies and determine whether other individuals were involved. The police said further information would be communicated as developments emerge and patrol operations continue across the state. Virgin Times News will continue to monitor the investigation and report verified updates.