The Anambra State Police Command says it has arrested one Gospel Ozioma Nneto, a 31-year-old suspected leader of a proscribed armed separatist group.

 

The suspect, popularly known as “OZ,” was apprehended during a series of special operations targeting criminal camps across the state. Three kidnapped victims were also rescued, and various weapons were recovered during the operations.

 

This was contained In a statement made available to TVC News, signed by the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.

 

He explains that the operations were supervised by the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, as part of his ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.

 

According to the statement, Nneto was arrested in the early hours of July 15, 2025, during coordinated raids by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad. He is described as a notorious terrorist, kidnapper, and armed robber, and a confirmed member of the banned separatist group.

 

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to being the group’s photographer, operating from a camp known as “Mother Valley,” located in the Orsumohu-Orsu axis. He is currently undergoing further questioning as investigations continue to expose his network.

 

The statement also revealed that in another operation, Divisional Police Officers in Nimo and Nteje, in collaboration with local vigilante operatives, successfully rescued three kidnapped victims from armed hoodlums. Items recovered at the scenes include one pump-action gun and a dagger.

 

In a related development, a joint security team comprising officers from the Nimo Division and local vigilante members, acting on credible intelligence, combed forested areas between the Oraukwu and Nimo communities on the evening of July 15, 2025. The search led to the rescue of two female kidnap victims, who are currently receiving medical and psychological care before being reunited with their families.

 

Furthermore, on the evening of July 14, 2025, police operatives from Nteje Division repelled an attempted attack by two armed suspects. A gun duel ensued, and the suspects were neutralized. Recovered items include another pump-action gun, a dagger, and other incriminating materials.

 

Efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend other fleeing members of the criminal syndicates involved in these incidents.

 

The Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and visitors in Anambra State.