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By Tracy Moses
The Anambra State Police Command on Monday, launched Operation Udo ga chi ito achieve zero kidnapping and other violent crimes in Awka, the state capital.
The initiative marks a renewed commitment to addressing security challenges following years of unrest in the Southeast region.
Speaking at the launch, the State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu said the initiative was not only timely but essential, especially in light of the spike in criminal activities in recent years, including the notorious 2021 string of kidnappings in Aguata and Ihiala, and other armed robbery incidents in Onitsha.
He said, “Anambra cannot thrive under the shadow of fear. This operation is the culmination of months of strategic planning and intelligence-gathering. It is designed to restore public confidence, protect our communities, and encourage our people to return home during festive periods without fear.”
The Commissioner explained that the launch was deliberately timed to precede the post-Easter and upcoming long holiday season, traditionally a time when members of the diaspora community travel home.
“As we saw during the 2023 Christmas period, many families stayed away due to fears of insecurity. We are determined to change that narrative,” he added.
Operation Udo ga chi (meaning “Peace Shall Reign” in Igbo) is structured as a joint-force campaign involving a wide range of security agencies including the Nigeria Police Force, Army’s 302 Artillery Regiment, the Navy’s Onitsha Outpost, the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigerian Correctional Service, Anambra State Vigilante Group, and local communities.
This approach draws from the success of similar joint task forces, such as the Operation Puff Adder launched in 2019, which was instrumental in reducing crime rates in states like Kaduna and Katsina.
The Anambra’s version, however, is designed to be even more intelligence-driven, relying heavily on proactive measures such as targeted patrols, stop-and-search operations, and swift response teams with Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) stationed at key locations.
“In the past, we responded reactively to threats. With this operation, we are taking the fight to the criminals. We have mapped out hotspots, identified hideouts, and our officers have been empowered to act decisively,” Orutugu said.
Already, security personnel have begun conducting raids in known black spots, including Oba, Nnewi South, and parts of Awka North, areas previously flagged for cult clashes and illegal arms possession.
To ensure transparency and coordination, a Joint Security Information Room has been activated. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activity using the following helplines:
Police: 07039194332, NDLEA: 09136832679, NSCDC: 08066769442, FRSC & Vigilante Lines: 122 ans 511. These numbers will be expanded as operations progress.
Orutugu also urged citizens to cooperate with security personnel, emphasizing that officers had received strict directives to conduct themselves with civility and professionalism.
“Security is a shared responsibility. We cannot succeed without the trust and collaboration of our people,” he said.
He thanked the Anambra State Government, led by Governor Charles Soludo, for its continued support, especially in refurbishing security equipment and vehicles.
The Commissioner noted that unlike past efforts that fizzled out due to lack of coordination and resources, Operation Udo ga chi is designed for sustainability.
Representatives from the hospitality and transport sectors, long plagued by extortion and gang activity, were present and pledged their support.