The Anambra State-sponsored security agency, the Agụnechemba has launched a fresh offensive against criminal groups operating from forests and other criminal hideouts across Anambra State.
This follows a new directive from the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, Prince Ken Emeakayi, who ordered the outfit to immediately take control of all known hideouts used by gunmen.
Recall that the State Government had extended a window period for the armed men in the forests to accept its amnesty programme and be reintegrated into the society, through skills acquisition.
But, a press statement in Awka on Wednesday by the Media/Publicity Secretary of Agụnechemba, Comrade Nweke Nweke, confirmed that the Governor’s aide on Community Security, Emeakayi met with the leadership of the group to brief them on the new strategy aimed at dismantling criminal camps across the state.
According to the statement, Prince Emeakayi commended Agụnechemba operatives for their sustained efforts in curbing the activities of kidnapping gangs and youths involved in ransom-driven crimes, as many communities previously dominated by criminal elements have begun to regain stability since the security outfit intensified operations.
He further revealed that Governor Soludo had recently equipped Agụnechemba with advanced surveillance cameras, earth-moving vehicles, and other logistics support needed to penetrate difficult terrains and dislodge criminals who hide in the bush to launch attacks.
The statement explained that the new directive comes at a critical time, especially as the yuletide season approaches, a period often exploited by criminal gangs.
“The Special Adviser assures residents that the state government and the security team are fully prepared to neutralize any threats and restore complete confidence across communities.
“Prince Emeakayi, also expresses appreciation to the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, for his constant institutional support for Agụnechemba operatives in their joint efforts to protect citizens.
“He believes that the synergy between the police and the grassroots security outfit has enabled many displaced residents to return to their homes after months of fear.
“Reiterating the new approach, Emeakayi warned criminal elements still hiding in the forests to immediately vacate the state, as security operatives will no longer wait to be attacked before responding. He emphasized that the fight against gunmen has now entered an offensive phase,” Nweke’s statement read.
The Agunechemba spokeperson reiterated the outfit’s resolve not to wait until criminals attack before retaliating, insisting that they will henceforth, be taking the fight to them.
“It is advisable for these wrongdoers to leave the State.
“Parents whose children may be involved in criminality are advised to withdraw them from the forests before security forces reach their hideouts.
“Agụnechemba operatives, by this statement, are expected to commence full enforcement of the directive across all local government areas, with a renewed mandate to secure communities ahead of the festive period,” he said.
