By Karen James
A notorious armed robbery gang that had been terrorising the residents of Onitsha metropolis met its end in a dramatic confrontation with the Nigerian police at Ibekwe Junction by Ugwunakpamkpa in Inland Town, Onitsha. The police, who were patrolling the area, opened fire on the five-man gang, resulting in the death of three of the robbers, while one escaped with gunshot wounds and another was captured alive.
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The gang, infamous for snatching vehicles at gunpoint in Onitsha and its surrounding areas, attempted to ambush a flashy vehicle at the junction without realizing that it was occupied by police officers on patrol. According to the sole surviving gang member, Tochukwu Okoro, from No. 7 Kaduna Street, Fegge, Onitsha, the group had intended to seize the vehicle, believing it belonged to a civilian. However, as soon as they moved to attack, the police officers responded with immediate force, taking out three of the robbers on the spot and recovering two firearms from the scene.
Okoro, who was arrested by the police, revealed startling details during his interrogation. He confessed that the guns used in their operations were supplied by a man known only as “Mayor,” a notorious cultist based in Idemili, Ogbaru area of Anambra State. According to Okoro, Mayor not only provided the gang with weapons but also served as the receiver of their stolen vehicles and other loot.
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The incident has brought a wave of relief to Onitsha residents, who have long suffered under the constant threat of vehicle hijackings and other violent crimes committed by the gang. Speaking to the press, local police authorities assured the public that the investigation into the gang’s activities would continue, with a manhunt launched to apprehend the remaining gang member who escaped with injuries.
Anambra State Police Command commended the bravery and quick response of the officers involved in the operation and emphasised the ongoing effort to crack down on criminal elements operating within the state. The identity and whereabouts of “Mayor,” the cultist linked to the gang, are now top priorities for the police.
Residents of Onitsha have expressed their gratitude for the police action, hopeful that this incident marks the end of the gang’s reign of terror in the area.
