By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has recorded yet another significant breakthrough in its relentless fight against economic and cyber-related crimes, with the arrest of two suspected fraudsters who allegedly masterminded the diversion and illegal conversion of cement shipments across four states of the federation.
According to a press statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the two suspects, identified as Mr. Mmaduabuchi Udo and Mr. Abubakar Babangida, were arrested on June 23, 2025, in Abuja by operatives of the CP Monitoring Unit, following an intelligence-led investigation.
He said preliminary findings revealed that the suspects specialized in exploiting social media platforms to profile cement dealers and discreetly obtain sensitive operational details from their unsuspecting victims. Armed with such information, they allegedly facilitated the diversion of large consignments of cement meant for legitimate businesses in Anambra, Edo, Rivers, and Delta States.
While commending the operatives for their swift and professional action, the Police Command, through the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, emphasized that the arrest beams light on the need for business operators to exercise utmost vigilance, particularly in the sharing of business-related data online, given that criminals continue to explore the digital space to perpetrate economic sabotage.
It was further disclosed that the arrested suspects are currently cooperating with the Police in their investigation and have already provided useful information that is assisting in the identification and tracking of other members of their syndicate who are still at large. The Police assured that upon the conclusion of investigations, the suspects will be charged to court to face the full weight of the law.
Reassuring the public of its commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and economic assets within Anambra State, CP Orutugu called on residents to remain security-conscious and to report any suspicious activities promptly to the nearest police station or via the Command’s emergency contact lines.
The Anambra State Police Command reaffirmed its determination to remain vigilant and proactive in flushing out criminal elements, while also urging the public to partner with security agencies in the ongoing quest to build a safer and more prosperous state.
