This arrest underscores the security agencies’ determination to safeguard civilians from criminal networks operating under the cover of secessionist activities and to maintain law and order in affected communities.
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 62-year-old man, Bernard Odinchefu, for his alleged involvement in a secessionist-linked extortion network operating in parts of Ihiala Local Government Area.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, apprehended the suspect on October 1, 2025. Odinchefu is accused of serving as an informant to a secessionist group while coordinating illegal levies on local traders and families organizing burial ceremonies.
Preliminary investigations indicate that traders in the Isseke and Orsumoghu communities were forced to pay a minimum of ₦10,000 per month, while families planning funerals were allegedly extorted of ₦100,000 or more before they were allowed to proceed with their ceremonies. Police allege that these funds were funneled to the suspect’s commander in a terrorist camp.
Odinchefu remains in police custody as further investigations continue.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to rooting out criminal networks exploiting the public under the guise of political agitation. He described the arrest as a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to dismantle insurgent-linked operations in the state.
“The Command remains resolute in ensuring that communities are protected from intimidation and extortion,” CP Orutugu stated.
This arrest underscores the security agencies’ determination to safeguard civilians from criminal networks operating under the cover of secessionist activities and to maintain law and order in affected communities.