Zero Tolerance: Anambra Police Commissioner Orutugu Flags Off Massive Joint Security Crackdown Across Anambra

 

Awka, Anambra State – In a bold step to tighten security across Anambra State, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has officially launched a high-powered security initiative dubbed “Operation Udo-Gachi – Zero Kidnapping and Other Violent Crimes.” The initiative, revealed during a formal flag-off ceremony at the Amawbia Bridge along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway on Monday, marks a major push to suppress surging criminal activities in the state.

With the Easter festivities attracting an influx of visitors and returnees to Anambra, the new operation aims to assure the safety of both residents and holidaymakers. CP Orutugu emphasized that the operation is designed to deter crime, reassure the public, and foster collective action against insecurity. “This move is a direct message to Ndi Anambra and all residents that we are intensifying efforts to end crimes like armed robbery and kidnapping. This period and beyond must be safe,” he declared.

Operation Udo-Gachi, which translates to ‘peace will reign’, is not a standalone police initiative. It is a coordinated security architecture involving a coalition of federal and state security agencies. These include the Nigerian Army (302 Artillery Regiment), the Nigerian Navy (Naval Outpost), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigerian Correctional Service, and the Anambra State Vigilante Group.

More critically, CP Orutugu acknowledged the vital role of the citizens themselves. “This operation is a partnership. The people of Anambra have chosen to stand with us. This collective resolve is our greatest strength,” he noted.

The multi-agency task force is being driven by intelligence-led policing strategies. These include routine stop-and-search operations, aggressive joint patrols, and the deployment of Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) to high-risk zones. CP Orutugu stressed that these operations are not just about visibility but will be dynamic, evolving daily based on new intelligence and developments.

A key innovation of the initiative is the establishment of a Joint Security Information Room—a centralized hub through which citizens can report suspicious activity. Hotlines have been provided for direct access to various security agencies, including:

• Police – 07039194332

• NDLEA – 09136832679

• NSCDC – 08066769442

• FRSC – 122

• Anambra State Vigilantes – 511 and 122

In furtherance of the crackdown, divisional police officers and other security formations have been instructed to conduct sweeping raids on identified flashpoints and crime-prone zones. This offensive approach, according to CP Orutugu, aims to destabilize criminal networks before they can act.

Beyond tactical strategy, the Commissioner emphasized the importance of community engagement and inter-agency synergy. “Security is not the duty of the police alone. No single body can take credit for peace. We are united under this operation, and our strength lies in our coordination,” he asserted.

Importantly, the CP also issued a strong reminder to operatives on the need to maintain professionalism and civility in their engagement with the public. He encouraged residents to be cooperative but also urged law enforcement to treat citizens with respect and courtesy throughout the operation.

He concluded by expressing appreciation to the Anambra State Government and supportive individuals who have contributed to refurbishing some of the police’s key operational assets, including patrol vehicles and APCs. “With these resources and with unity of purpose, we are determined to make Anambra a safe and livable homeland for all,” CP Orutugu affirmed.

As Operation Udo-Gachi gets underway, all eyes will be on its effectiveness in not only curbing violent crimes but also in restoring the confidence of Ndi Anambra in the security apparatus of the state.