Twenty years after, Okija in the Ihiala local government area of Anambra State boils again as police storm the compound of a notorious gang leader and rescued three abductees chained to the pillars by insurgents.
The State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Tochukwu Ikenga stated this in a press release made available to journalists.
Recall that about 20 years ago, a shrine in Okija was invaded by a team of policemen following a tip-off. Over 40 native doctors, keepers and attendants were arrested by the police as gruesome discoveries were made. Over 70 corpses and skulls were discovered, along with a register of names.
In the statement on Sunday the PPRO said, “On 14/07/2023 at about 1600hrs (4 P.M), Police Operatives from Rapid Reaponse Squad, Awkuzu acting on credible information stormed the compound of one Onyeka Aduba alias Totoritor at Umuohi Village, Okija and rescued three abducted citizens chained to building pillars by insurgents.
“Two suspects, namely, Okika Chukwujekwu ‘M’ aged 31years, Slyvester Okorie Ikwuanusi ‘M’ aged 55years were arrested for interrogation.
“The feat followed the confession made by the notorious gang leader, popularly known as ‘Totoritor’ who was arrested earlier and had been in police custody. He was positively identified on 6/7/2023 by a victim with gunshot injury before he was arrested.
“Preliminary investigation reveals that the rescued citizens have been kept incommunicado and chained to pillars in the above-mentioned compound for weeks before their rescue.
“Efforts are ongoing to arrest the other fleeing members of the gang.
The PPRO added, “The Commissioner of Police, *CP Aderemi Adeoye* has urged the good people of Anambra State to disregard propaganda by outlawed groups and continue to partner with the police and other security agencies in the State to restore peace to Anambra State.
“They are encouraged to report
suspicious persons and unusual movement they may observe to the nearest Police Station or through the Command Emergency number 112 or call 07039194332 for prompt response.
“The ‘npf rescue me app’ is also available for free download on both Android and Apple IOS, for Android and iPhone users respectively.
