…the suspect allegedly attempted to flee during a search operation.
AWKA, NIGERIA — The iNews Times reports that the Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the death of a 21-year-old suspected armed robber and cultist during an attempted escape from a police operation in Amikwo, Awka South Local Government Area.
Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the incident occurred in the early hours of February 16, 2026, during a search operation by operatives attached to the Special Anti-Cultism Squad, Enugu-Ukwu.
The deceased suspect was identified as Chukwuka Solomon.
Weapons Recovered During Operation
According to the police, the suspect allegedly attempted to flee during the search of a criminal hideout in Amikwo.
During the operation, officers recovered one pump-action gun, two locally made pistols, and expanded ammunition.
Ikenga further disclosed that operatives repelled an ambush attack launched by other gang members during the raid.
“Blood evidence at the scene shows that some of the armed hoodlums must have escaped with varying degrees of bullet injuries,” he said.
Community-Assisted Arrest
The police revealed that the suspect was initially apprehended through the efforts of residents of Amikwo community, who handed him over to security operatives over allegations of terrorising the area with firearms.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to being a member of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity, also known as “Baggars,” and admitted to possessing operational weapons linked to the group.
He reportedly also mentioned working for a notorious figure popularly known as “Aza Man,” alleged to be involved in criminal activities in Awka and surrounding communities.
Police Intensify Manhunt
The Command said it is currently working on leads provided during interrogation to track down the gang leader and other fleeing members.
The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, reiterated the Command’s commitment to combating cultism, armed robbery, and other violent crimes in Anambra State.
