The Anambra State Police Command has intensified coordinated security operations across the state as operatives of the Inspector General of Police’s Violent Crime Response Unit stepped up raids against criminal elements.
The renewed offensive is aimed at dismantling networks linked to kidnapping, armed robbery, cult violence, gunrunning and other violent crimes threatening public safety in parts of the state.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, the tactical operations are part of sustained efforts to deny criminals freedom of movement and restore confidence among residents.
Leading the operations in Anambra is Ahmed Ayuba, a senior police officer described by the Command as experienced in intelligence driven policing and tactical crime fighting.
Before his current appointment, Ayuba served as Officer in Charge of the Special Anti Cult Unit in Anambra State and also headed the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu.
He equally served as Divisional Police Officer of Obosi Division and occupied several strategic operational positions within the Command over the years.
The police disclosed that the VCRU has increased stop and search duties, surveillance operations and targeted deployments to identified criminal flashpoints across the state.
Authorities urged residents not to panic over the increased visibility and movement of armed tactical operatives, stressing that the operations are preventive measures designed to strengthen internal security.
The Command further appealed to members of the public to remain law abiding and support ongoing operations through credible and timely intelligence capable of assisting security agencies in tracking criminal suspects.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to protecting lives and property across Anambra State, insisting that criminal elements would find no safe haven as security agencies sustain pressure on violent crime networks operating within the state.