Anambra police arrest fake vigilante operatives robbing residents
Police in Anambra State have arrested five suspected fake armed vigilante operatives who were allegedly robbing innocent residents in different communities, authorities said as investigations continue into their activities. The suspects were apprehended during coordinated operations by the Anambra State Police Command after residents reported a series of attacks involving individuals posing as vigilantes and demanding money and valuables from commuters and households.
According to the police, the alleged fake vigilante operatives carried military‑style uniforms, firearms and fake identity cards, which they used to deceive unsuspecting victims into believing they had official security authority. In several incidents, members of the public were stopped at roadside checkpoints and forced to hand over cash, mobile phones and other valuables under threat of violence. Other residents reported that the suspects gained access to homes by claiming to be legitimate community security officials before committing robbery and intimidation.
The state police command’s spokesman said detectives tracked the suspects over several days after receiving multiple complaints from victims across Awka, Onitsha and Nnewi, where the gang was most active. The coordinated response led to the arrest of the five men, who are now in police custody facing charges including armed robbery, impersonation of security agents, unlawful possession of firearms, and intimidation. Seized exhibits include one pump‑action shotgun, two locally made pistols, several rounds of ammunition and the fake uniforms and ID cards used to perpetrate their crimes.
Authorities reassured residents that security forces are intensifying patrols and community engagements to ensure public safety and to deter others who may attempt to exploit the guise of vigilante groups for criminal purposes. Police urged members of the public to always verify the identity of anyone demanding compliance or money and to report suspicious activity promptly to law enforcement.
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