In a notable operation under the initiative known as “Operation Udo Ga Chi – Zero Kidnapping,” Anambra police operatives from the Rapid Response Squad and the Anti-kidnapping Unit have apprehended two suspects linked to a kidnapping case.
A statement from SP Tochukwu Ikenga, Police Public Relations Officer for the Anambra State Police Command, revealed that “the arrests took place on 13th April 2025 in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, where officers apprehended 52-year-old Celestine Onuyia and 45-year-old Jacinta Okolo Udenka.
“During a search of their residence, authorities recovered an impressive arsenal, including one pump action gun, seven single barrel dane guns, and twenty-eight live cartridges.
“Furthermore, information obtained during the interrogation of the suspects led to the discovery of two additional AK47 rifles and two empty magazines at their criminal hideout in Omasi, Ayamelum LGA, on 20th April 2025.”
Ikenga pointed out that the arrests followed an investigation into a kidnapping incident that occurred in Nnewi in July 2024, during which a ransom of Seventeen million, Five hundred thousand Naira (#17,500,000) was reportedly paid for the victim’s release.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that Mr Onuyia is allegedly a native doctor who provides charms for criminal activities and stores weapons for the gang, while Mrs Udenka is believed to gather information on potential victims prior to the execution of their plans.”
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, reaffirmed the command’s determination to pursue these cases to their logical conclusion, stating, “This measure is critical to the ongoing efforts to prevent further criminal activities in the State.
