Anambra CP canvasses seizure of buildings used for crime, instead of demolition
Anambra Police Commissioner Proposes Seizure of Criminally Used Properties
AWKA, Nigeria — Ikioye Orutugu, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, has proposed a new approach to properties linked with criminal activities. During a press briefing on Wednesday, he suggested that rather than demolishing these buildings, they should be repurposed as police bases or residences for officers.
Orutugu’s call comes in light of recent efforts by the command to combat crime, including the rescue of three individuals, including a medical doctor, from kidnappers in Nkpor. This operation resulted in the destruction of a residence owned by the suspected leader of the kidnapping group, identified as Fabulous.
Under the 2025 Homeland Security Law, the state government has the authority to demolish properties tied to criminal activities. In the past, several such structures have been razed and the land repurposed for government use. However, Orutugu contends that acquiring these buildings for law enforcement use could be more beneficial.
“In the case of the kidnappers of the Medical Director of Crown Hospital in Onitsha, we were able to rescue the doctor along with two others; however, one of our police officers lost his life,” Orutugu stated. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a police presence in areas affected by crime, especially in the wake of incidents where locals retaliated against suspected criminals.
The Commissioner also outlined recent successes achieved by the police in Anambra, which include the apprehension of kidnappers, armed robbers, child traffickers, and other criminal elements. A specific highlight was a successful clearance operation executed on May 7, 2026, in Owerre-Ezukala, Orumba South Local Government Area, where significant quantities of weaponry were seized.
Orutugu reported the arrest of Nnamdi Nkemdilim Ogbonna, a 37-year-old suspect alleged to be a leader among a proscribed secessionist group. He noted that police intelligence suggests attempts by some fleeing gang members to reorganize.
During the offensive, law enforcement recovered various weaponry, including a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) with approximately 2,000 rounds of ammunition, fabricated rocket launchers, and improvised explosive devices, among others.
The Commissioner reiterated the police command’s commitment to ongoing operations against criminal activities and emphasized the importance of community vigilance and cooperation. He thanked the Inspector-General of Police, the Anambra State Government, and local leaders for their continued support in the fight against crime.
