By Gloria Anaeze
Copyright independent
ONITSHA – The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, on Tuesday, addressed the press, highlighting remarkable achievements, breakthroughs, and challenges recorded in his six months of service as the state’s Police Chief.
According to the CP, upon assumption of duty, he pledged to restore public confidence in policing, deepen inter-agency collaboration, and ensure the safety of residents and visitors across Anambra.
One of the most pressing cases he confronted was the escape of a suspect implicated in the kidnapping and murder of Honourable Justice Azuka.
The Police Command successfully re-arrested the suspect, reaffirming its resolve to bring perpetrators of violent crimes to justice, no matter how long it takes.
In a bold strategy to stamp out violent crimes, the Police Command, working with sister security agencies, launched Operation Zero Kidnapping, a joint initiative that has significantly disrupted criminal gangs, driving kidnapping incidents to record low levels.
Other key achievements listed by the Police Commissioner in his six months in office include: Recovery of over 300 arms, 20 explosives, more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition, and 30 vehicles; Destruction of over five criminal camps; Arrest of over 200 suspects, including cultists, separatist agitators, and armed robbers.
Oters are: Conviction of more than 100 suspects for sexual assault, armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.
Beyond crime-fighting, the Command explored Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in resolving communal disputes, notably between Ikenga and Isiokwe villages in Umueri and Aguleri.
In partnership with the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), the Command also advanced police-community relations by empowering women with skills training, supporting police families through welfare initiatives, and organising community outreach programmes.
Recognising the critical role of grassroots security, CP Orutugu’s administration trained vigilante operatives across the state on crime scene management, suspect handling, intelligence sharing, and lawful operations.
The Command also provided security during the President’s visit to Anambra and ensured peace throughout the recent by-election in the state, where public ceremonies held without security fears.
To boost morale and effectiveness, the Command renovated key police formations, including the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) at Akwuzu, Aminchi Police Station, and others.
These outstanding efforts earned the Command the Best Crime-Busting Command of the Year Award from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council.
In his closing remarks, CP Orutugu praised the dedication of his officers, support from sister agencies, and the cooperation of Anambra residents. He reiterated his commitment to sustaining peace and security across the state.
