…crackdown on Anambra illegal tax collectors comes amid broader state government efforts to sanitize revenue systems.
Onitsha, Nigeria — The iNews Times reports that three suspected Anambra illegal tax collectors have been arrested and remanded following a coordinated enforcement operation by the Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency (SASA) aimed at ending unlawful revenue collection across the state.
The suspects, Michael Uwaoma, Ndubuisi Aniukwu, and Anthony Onyekwelu were apprehended in separate operations within Onitsha and its surrounding communities. According to SASA, the arrests form part of ongoing efforts to dismantle networks involved in extorting traders, food vendors, and commercial operators under the guise of revenue collection.
SASA spokesperson, Karen James, disclosed the development on Thursday, explaining that the suspects were picked up at different locations after credible intelligence linked them to illegal levy collection activities.
She stated that Michael Uwaoma, a native of Okija in Anambra State, was arrested at Mgbuka Obosi for allegedly collecting ₦200 from women selling food items. Investigations suggest that the suspect targeted small-scale traders who depend on daily sales for survival.
In a separate operation, Ndubuisi Aniukwu, from Nkanu East in Enugu State, was apprehended at Umusiome Junction, Nkpor, where he allegedly collected ₦300 from motorcycle riders operating in the area. Commercial motorcycle operators, commonly known as okada riders, have long complained about harassment and illegal levies imposed by unauthorized individuals.
Further preliminary investigations reportedly revealed that Aniukwu was acting under instructions from Anthony Onyekwelu, identified as his superior in the operation. Onyekwelu, a native of Ngokpala in Imo State, allegedly set a daily remittance target and was said to receive ₦20,000 from Aniukwu each day.
Authorities say the structure of the operation indicates a coordinated system designed to exploit traders and transport operators under pressure to comply to avoid harassment.
Court Arraignment and Bail Conditions
Following their arrest, the suspects were arraigned before a competent Magistrate Court. The court ordered their remand in a correctional facility pending the determination of the case.
However, the court granted bail under strict conditions. The bail terms include a ₦100,000 bail bond, a ₦300,000 fine, and the requirement of a verified Level 10 civil servant as surety.
The matter has been adjourned to June 3, 2026, for further hearing.
Legal observers note that the imposition of strict bail conditions reflects the judiciary’s seriousness in addressing the activities of Anambra illegal tax collectors, which have increasingly generated public complaints across commercial hubs.
SASA Reaffirms Zero Tolerance
Reiterating the agency’s zero-tolerance stance, Karen James emphasized that SASA remains committed to protecting legitimate businesses and restoring order across the state’s markets and transport corridors.
She stressed that illegal revenue collection undermines lawful government processes, disrupts economic activity, and places unnecessary financial burdens on traders and transport operators.
“SASA will continue to enforce the law against unauthorized levy collection and all forms of extortion. Our goal is to ensure a safe and lawful environment where residents and business owners can operate without intimidation,” she said.
The crackdown on Anambra illegal tax collectors comes amid broader state government efforts to sanitize revenue systems and eliminate touting activities in commercial centres such as Onitsha, Nkpor, and Obosi.
Growing Concern Over Illegal Levies
Illegal taxation and extortion have long been issues in major commercial cities in Nigeria, where informal groups sometimes impose unauthorized levies on traders, artisans, and transport operators.
Stakeholders argue that such practices not only reduce traders’ profits but also create an atmosphere of fear and lawlessness. In some cases, small business owners are forced to pay multiple levies daily, significantly increasing operational costs.
Residents have welcomed the recent arrests, describing them as a step toward restoring public confidence in state enforcement agencies.
Observers believe sustained monitoring and swift prosecution will be crucial in deterring others who may attempt similar activities.
Public Encouraged to Report Incidents
SASA has encouraged members of the public to promptly report any incidents involving illegal levy collection, harassment, or extortion to appropriate authorities.
Officials say community cooperation remains critical to identifying and dismantling networks of Anambra illegal tax collectors operating across markets and transport hubs.
As the case proceeds in court, attention will focus on whether the arrests signal a broader enforcement strategy capable of permanently addressing the problem.
For continued updates on governance, enforcement actions, and public accountability in Anambra State, stay with The iNews Times, your trusted source for credible, in-depth, and people-focused journalism.
