Anambra Police Report Sharp Drop in 2025 Crime Rates

The Anambra State Police Command has officially announced a significant decline in violent crimes across the state throughout 2025, marking a pivotal shift in the security landscape of the South-East hub. Speaking at the Command Headquarters in Awka on Tuesday, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, attributed this breakthrough to a rigorous overhaul of the state’s security architecture, emphasizing that proactive intelligence and stronger community ties have effectively put criminal elements on the defensive.

According to the Commissioner, the year was defined by the successful dismantling of several notorious kidnapping syndicates that had previously operated with impunity across multiple local government areas. In a detailed breakdown of the Command’s scorecard, Orutugu revealed that joint operations involving the Police, Nigerian Army, Navy, DSS, and local vigilante groups like Agunaechemba resulted in the successful rescue of 35 kidnap victims. The sustained pressure on criminal hideouts also led to the arrest of over 300 high-profile suspects and the recovery of a massive cache of weaponry, including more than 2,000 firearms, ammunition, and various explosives.

One of the most notable achievements cited was the restoration of peace in Ihiala, a corridor once plagued by high-intensity insecurity. The Commissioner noted that social life has gradually returned to the area, with residents now able to host weddings and community events without the fear of intimidation or violence. This newfound stability was also reflected in the successful and incident-free hosting of major national events within the state, including the official visit of President Bola Tinubu and the peaceful conduct of both governorship and local government elections.

Beyond general statistics, the Command highlighted several breakthrough investigations, most notably the re-arrest of the gang leader and accomplices involved in the high-profile murder of the late Hon. Justice Azuka in Onitsha. Officers also apprehended the suspects responsible for the killing of three Cameroonian nationals, whose bodies were recovered following a meticulous forensic trail. These successes, the CP noted, have moved beyond mere arrests, with several cases already resulting in court convictions.

Despite these gains, the police chief acknowledged that the year was not without its hurdles. He pointed to the evolving tactics of criminals and occasional instances of public misinformation as ongoing challenges. However, he maintained that these obstacles have served to refine the Command’s strategy for 2026. As the festive season draws near, Orutugu announced a massive deployment of personnel to ensure a peaceful Yuletide, while reiterating the ban on the use of knockouts and unauthorized explosives.

In his concluding remarks, the Commissioner expressed deep gratitude to the Anambra State Government and traditional rulers for their role in upgrading police facilities and providing the logistical support necessary for effective patrolling. He urged residents to remain vigilant during the holidays, advising them to secure their homes and utilize only designated motor parks to avoid falling prey to “one-chance” criminals. As the state moves into the new year, the Command’s message is one of cautious optimism, focused on sustaining the hard-won peace that defined 2025.