By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has faulted the continued use of the term “unknown gunmen” in reference to criminal elements operating in the state, insisting that the individuals behind recent violent activities are not spirits, but clearly identifiable and unrepentant criminals whose identities are increasingly being exposed through collaborative efforts with the public.
This was disclosed in the Command’s Monday security update issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who reaffirmed that there is no such thing as unknown gunmen in Anambra, as some people erroneously describe them. Rather, he emphasized that those involved in the acts of terror across some parts of the state are known criminals who have deliberately refused to change their ways despite several opportunities.
“Ndị Anambra have agreed with the Police and security agencies that there is nothing like unknown gunmen. These persons terrorising the State are unrepentant criminals who have refused to change their ways,” he stated
According to him, the resolve of Ndị Anambra has grown even stronger, with many communities now collaborating more deliberately with the Police and other security agencies to identify, expose, and deny the bag eggs and criminals any opportunity to operate within the state.
The growing synergy between residents and security operatives, SP Ikenga said, has begun to yield tangible results, especially in frustrating the operations of these criminal elements and ensuring improved safety across the state.
In addition, the Command said it has intensified surveillance and patrols in both rural and urban areas as part of its broader strategy to deter crime, restore calm, and sustain public peace and order in the state.
While appreciating members of the public for their ongoing support and trust in the force, the Anambra Police Command also encouraged residents to remain security conscious and to promptly report any suspicious activities or requests for assistance through its official channels.
“For any security service or emergency, please call the Command Control Room via 07039194332 or reach the Police Public Relations Officer directly on 08039334002 for a prompt response,” SP Ikenga advised.
He also reminded the public of the ‘NPF Rescue Me App’ — a free application available for download on Android and iOS devices, which allows users to quickly alert security personnel during emergencies.
Further speaking in an interview with this reporter, SP Ikenga reiterated the readiness and commitment of the Command to protect lives and property across Anambra, while also calling for continued public support in the fight against all forms of criminality, adding that the collective efforts of the people and the police remain the strongest force against insecurity in the state.
