Police Arrest Member of Proscribed Secessionist Group in Anambra!

Police Arrest Member of Proscribed Secessionist Group in Anambra!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

The Anambra State Police Command has announced the arrest of a 62‑year‑old man suspected of informant activities for a proscribed secessionist group in Ihiala Local Government Area (LGA). [1]

“He is suspected to have been collecting illegal levies from traders and families in the area, with the proceeds allegedly remitted to his commanders in a terrorist camp,” said the police spokesman. [2]

Key Details:

• The suspect was arrested on 1 October 2025 by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, following credible intelligence. [2]
• He faces allegations of extorting traders in Isseke and Orsumoghu communities, with monthly demands of ₦10,000 or more, and funeral‐related levies of ₦100,000 or more from bereaved families. The illicit funds are reportedly linked to the secessionist group’s operations. [2]
• Earlier statements from the Anambra Police also confirm ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal structures tied to secessionist organisations in the state. [3]

Why It Matters:

• The arrest underscores growing concerns about how proscribed groups exploit local economies through extortion, rather than only through violent attacks.
• – It signals that the Security and Police commands are identifying and targeting support networks—not just frontline militants—in secessionist strongholds.
• The presence of such networks in Ihiala LGA highlights the complex security environment in parts of Anambra State and the Southeast more broadly.

What to Watch:

• Whether further arrests follow in Ihiala Local Government or neighbouring communities identified as hubs of secessionist networking.
• The outcome of the suspect’s interrogation and whether it leads to actionable intelligence or arrests of higher‐level operatives.
• The response of local traders and community members—particularly any steps taken to protect them from extortion and coerced payments.

Citations:

1. The Guardian Nigeria: guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/police-detain-62-year-old-suspected-ipob-member-in-anambra/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. Independent Newspaper Nigeria: independent.ng/anambra-police-nab-secessionist-informant-over-extortion-network-in-ihiala/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3. Vanguard News: www.vanguardngr.com/2025/10/anambra-police-detain-62-year-old-suspected-ipob-member?utm_source=chatgpt.com

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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