Police Arrest Native Doctor And A Female Accomplice For Kidnapping, Recover N17.5m In Anambra

The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two suspected kidnappers, including a woman in the state.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, on Sunday, April 20, the suspects identified as Celestine Onuyia, 52, and 45-year-old Jacinta Okolo Udenka, were apprehended by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad/Anti-Kidnapping Unit on April 13 at Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area.

Ikenga mentioned that a search conducted in the suspects’ residence led to the recovery of one pump action gun, seven single-barrel dane guns, and twenty-eight live cartridges.

Further intelligence extracted during interrogation reportedly led officers to the gang’s hideout at Omasi, Ayamelum LGA, where two AK-47 rifles and two empty magazines were recovered.

He stated that the duo is believed to be connected to a kidnapping incident that occurred in Nnewi in July 2024, during which the gang allegedly collected a ransom of N17.5 million before releasing their victim.

Preliminary investigations reveal that Celestine Onuyia, allegedly a native doctor, provided criminal charms and stored weapons for the group, while Jacinta Okolo Udenka was responsible for sourcing information on potential victims.

Ikenga mentioned that the state Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has reaffirmed the command’s commitment to pursuing criminal cases to their logical conclusion and preventing further criminal activity across the state.

The suspects are currently in custody, and investigations are ongoing.