The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old man, Udochukwu Okafor, popularly known as “Small-Moto,” over his alleged involvement in armed robbery, kidnapping, cult-related activities and secessionist-related offences in Ebenebe community and its environs.

The suspect, who was reportedly on the wanted list of the Command, was arrested by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, during an intelligence-led operation in the community on the morning of October 24, 2026.

The arrest, according to the police, followed sustained efforts to track down the suspect over allegations linking him to several criminal activities in the area.

The Command said the operation was part of its ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks and apprehend individuals suspected of threatening public safety in Anambra State.

During preliminary interrogation, Okafor allegedly admitted to snatching a pump-action firearm from a vigilante operative in Ebenebe.

The police further disclosed that the suspect reportedly mentioned possessing a locally made short gun, which he and other suspected members of his gang allegedly used in their criminal operations.

The development, according to the Command, has prompted further investigations aimed at recovering the firearms and establishing the extent of the suspect’s alleged involvement in criminal activities.

The police also said the suspect allegedly admitted to being a member of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity, popularly known as “Aro-Baggers,” a group suspected of involvement in cult-related violence in Awka and neighbouring communities.

The Command said investigations were ongoing to verify the allegations against the suspect, recover the weapons reportedly mentioned during interrogation and identify other suspected members of the gang.

It added that efforts were being intensified to track down other suspects believed to be connected with the alleged criminal activities, some of whom are still at large.

The police did not disclose further details about the alleged kidnapping and secessionist-related offences for which Okafor was reportedly wanted, as investigations into the case continue.

The suspect remains in police custody while operatives pursue additional leads that could assist in uncovering the activities of the alleged criminal network.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, reaffirmed the Command’s determination to sustain intelligence-driven operations against criminal elements across the state.

He assured residents that the police would continue to pursue individuals suspected of involvement in criminal activities in order to safeguard lives and property.

The Command also indicated that further information would be made available as investigations progress.

The arrest comes amid continuing security operations aimed at addressing armed robbery, kidnapping, cult-related violence and other security challenges in parts of Anambra State.

However, the allegations against Okafor remain subject to the outcome of police investigations and any subsequent judicial proceedings.