Anambra State Police have successfully arrested two kidnapping suspects, including a 45-year-old woman, in connection with a series of crimes in the state. The suspects, identified as 52-year-old Celestine Onuyia and 45-year-old Jacinta Okolo Udenka, both residents of Oba in the Idemili South Local Government Area, were apprehended on April 13, 2025.
During a subsequent search of their residence, police operatives recovered one pump-action gun, seven single-barrel dane guns, and twenty-eight live cartridges. The arrest was part of ongoing efforts under the police’s “Operation Udo Ga Chi – Zero Kidnapping” initiative.
Further intelligence gathered from the suspects during questioning led the police to a criminal hideout in Omasi, Ayamelum Local Government Area, where two additional AK47 rifles and two empty magazines were recovered on April 20, 2025.
The suspects are believed to have been involved in a kidnapping incident in Nnewi in July 2024, where a ransom of 17.5 million Naira was paid for the victim’s release.
According to police sources, Celestine Onuyia, a native doctor, is suspected of providing criminal charms and storing weapons for the gang, while Jacinta Okolo Udenka is accused of gathering intelligence about potential victims to aid in their abductions.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, PhD, assured the public that the police would continue their diligent efforts to ensure the suspects face justice. “We are committed to following this case to its logical conclusion and preventing further criminal activities in the state,” CP Orutugu stated.
The Anambra State Police Command remains dedicated to enhancing security and combating criminal activities within the state.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga
Police Public Relations Officer
Anambra State Police Command, Awka
April 20, 2025
