Police Arrest Rogue Vigilante Operative, Seize Pump Action Gun in Anambra
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The Anambra State Police Commissioner, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, has reiterated the importance of profiling vigilante members as part of the state’s commitment to the Community Policing initiative.
This statement follows the arrest of a 25-year-old suspect, Enediong Bassey, a native of Ikono LGA in Akwa Ibom State. Bassey was apprehended on November 22, 2024, at around 6:38 PM by police officers from the 3-3 Police Divisional Headquarters, led by CSP Emeka Obi. The arrest took place along the Nkwelle-Ezunaka axis, where Bassey was found in possession of a pump action rifle hidden inside a rice bag.
During questioning, the suspect admitted to being a member of a local vigilante group and revealed that he intended to flee with the firearm to join his criminal associates, planning to engage in armed robbery and other unlawful activities.
In light of this incident and other complaints about unprofessional conduct among some vigilante groups, CP Itam emphasized the need for thorough vetting and profiling of security personnel involved in assisting law enforcement agencies. This, he said, would help enhance public safety and improve the effectiveness of anti-crime efforts.
The suspect has since been transferred to the Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) for further investigation.
